Oil and Filter Change Cost

Drain old engine oil, replace the filter, refill with new oil.

$35 – $120

Typical labor: 20 to 40 minutes

Prices are national averages. Your exact cost depends on your vehicle, location, and shop. Get a free personalized AI estimate above.

Common Symptoms

Oil life indicator at 0 percent

Dark or gritty oil on the dipstick

Engine running rougher than usual

5,000 to 10,000 miles since last change

What It Is

Engine oil lubricates moving parts, carries away heat, and traps contaminants. The filter catches metal shavings and sludge. Both wear out and need replacing on a schedule.

Why It Matters

Old oil thickens, loses its ability to protect, and can cause sludge buildup. Skipping changes is the fastest way to wreck an engine.

How to Save Money on Oil and Filter Change

Conventional oil is fine for most older cars, only newer engines actually require full synthetic
Buy oil and filter at a parts store on sale, hand them to the shop and pay labor only
Independent shops often charge half what dealers do for the same service

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Frequently Asked Questions

Synthetic or conventional oil?

Check your owner's manual. Most cars built after 2010 require full synthetic. Older cars can use conventional or a synthetic blend.

How often should I change my oil?

Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles for synthetic, 3,000 to 5,000 for conventional. Follow the oil life monitor if your car has one.