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Oil and Filter Change Cost
Drain old engine oil, replace the filter, refill with new oil.
$35 – $120
Parts vs Labor
55% / 45%
Typical share of total cost
Labor Time
20 to 40 minutes
At a typical shop
Difficulty
Easy DIY
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Honda CivicHonda AccordHonda CR-VToyota CamryToyota CorollaToyota RAV4Toyota TacomaFord F-150Ford EscapeFord ExplorerChevy SilveradoChevy EquinoxNissan AltimaNissan RogueJeep Grand CherokeeJeep WranglerRam 1500Subaru OutbackSubaru ForesterHyundai ElantraKia SorentoBMW 3 SeriesMercedes C-ClassAudi A4Lexus RX
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
Often Done Together
Shops commonly pair oil and filter change with these jobs to save on overlapping labor:
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Check My Quote FreeFrequently 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.