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Home / Symptoms / Oil Change Price

The oil change price is typically around $120 but it can vary depending if you want an inspection and full service

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How much does an oil change cost in 2025?

The price of an oil change for non-luxury vehicle brands like Chevrolet, Toyota, and Ford is typically between $100 and $130, depending on the vehicle model. A Chevy Cruze goes for about $115.

For higher-end vehicles like performance cars and luxury SUVs, the prices are different. For example, an oil change can fall around the $215 - $230 range on a 2024 Mercedes-Benz G500.

What are the costs of replacing the purge valve?

Let’s break down the costs involved in a purge solenoid replacement:

The labor rate: Labor rates change between professionals (ASE technicians charge more than rookie mechanics) and wage differences for areas.
The shop’s neighborhood/area: The area will determine the replacement cost. For example, Santa Barbara in California has prices different from Albuquerque in New Mexico; this could be due to lease rates, cost of living, etc.
The vehicle type: European brands like Mercedes, BMW, Audi, etc., have different prices for replacing the purge solenoid. For example, a Jaguar XF purge valve replacement can typically start at $220.

Let's Get To The Bottom Of It!

Has it been more than 6 months since your last oil change?

Even if you don’t drive much, oil breaks down over time. It gets old, loses its protective power, and can cause engine wear.

Have you driven more than 5,000 miles since your last oil change?

Most cars need fresh oil every 3,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on the oil type and engine. Going past that range means your oil might be dirty and less effective.

Have you noticed the oil light or check engine light come on recently?

That light is your car's way of warning you something’s off — low oil, dirty oil, or pressure problems. Ignoring it can lead to major engine damage.

Does the engine sound louder or rougher than usual when driving?

Clean oil helps your engine run smoothly. If it sounds off or noisy, the oil might not be doing its job right anymore.

Do you smell something burnt when the engine is hot or right after parking?

That burnt smell could mean oil is leaking and hitting hot engine parts — a sign that it’s time for service, or the oil is too old and thin to stay sealed.

Have you seen smoke or more exhaust than normal coming from the tailpipe?

Excess smoke can mean oil is being burned inside the engine, which usually points to old or degraded oil, or a deeper problem tied to overdue maintenance.

Q: How much does an oil change actually cost?

A: It depends on what kind of oil your car takes:

Conventional oil: $35–$60
Synthetic blend: $45–$70
Full synthetic: $65–$120+

Luxury cars and some newer engines usually require full synthetic, which costs more but lasts longer.

Q: Why is synthetic oil more expensive?

A: It’s like comparing fast food to a home-cooked meal. Synthetic oil is made in a lab to perform better — it lasts longer, protects better in extreme temps, and keeps your engine cleaner. So yeah, it costs more up front, but you won’t need to change it as often.

Q: How often do I really need an oil change?

A: Depends on your car and oil type:

Conventional oil: Every 3,000–5,000 miles or 3 months
Synthetic oil: Every 7,500–10,000 miles or 6–12 months

If you don’t drive a lot, go by time. If you drive a lot, go by mileage. Always check your owner's manual for the sweet spot.

Q: Can I drive past the recommended oil change time?

A: Technically, yes. But the longer you wait, the more you’re gambling with engine damage. Oil gets dirty and loses its magic. You might not notice anything at first, but long-term damage is real — and expensive.

Q: Does getting an oil change include anything else?

A: At most places, yes. A basic oil change usually comes with:

New oil filter
Fluid top-offs (coolant, windshield washer, etc.)
Tire pressure check
Quick inspection (belts, hoses, etc.)

Some shops even rotate your tires if you ask. It’s smart to check what’s included before you book.

Q: Can I just do it myself to save money?

A: You could — if you’re comfortable getting under the car and disposing of the old oil properly. A DIY oil change might cost $20–$40, depending on the oil and filter you buy. But if you don’t like getting messy or don’t have the tools, paying a shop saves time and hassle.

Q: What happens if I never change my oil?

A: Honestly? Your engine will eventually choke, overheat, and die. Old oil turns into thick sludge, parts wear out, and the repair bill could be thousands. Not worth the risk.

Q: What’s the cheapest way to get an oil change without getting ripped off?

Look for promotions or coupons — lots of places do discounts for first-timers.
Chain shops (like Jiffy Lube or Valvoline) usually have flat-rate deals.
Local mechanics might give you a better price if you ask.
Be honest about your driving habits — you might not need full synthetic if you don’t do long trips or extreme weather.

Q: Is it bad to switch oil types (like from conventional to synthetic)?

A: Not at all. In fact, most cars can handle the switch just fine. Some people even mix them — it’s called a synthetic blend. Just don’t go cheap and switch back and forth all the time. Pick one and stick to it if your car runs well on it.

Are there more costs to consider besides just the oil change?

Yes, apart from the oil change cost, you might want to get a specialized service, depending on what you want to achieve with your vehicle.

Here are the possible types of service you can get.

“Just” an oil change: This means you just want the oil change and nothing else. The downside is that you might not find out if something is contaminating your oil or making it leak. So, let’s assume there’s a problem somewhere else in your car that’s contaminating the oil. In this situation, getting an oil change won’t solve the issue, it might just make the new oil contaminated quickly. So, even though you pay for just an oil change, you might unfortunately spend on it repeatedly if the oil keeps getting contaminated.
Long-lasting fix: This means you want to permanently fix your vehicle and understand what might be wrong with it. So, you want to investigate if there’s an issue contaminating your oil. You’re willing to spend more money to cover extra processes that ensure your car runs safely and reliably.

Costs of a long-lasting oil fix

In addition to the common oil change, a long-lasting fix for an oil issue involves more things that change the final price. Here’s what you can initially expect:

Oil system inspection: An oil system inspection usually costs below $200. This is an investigation of every system in your car that could affect the oil, which involves the labor of service advisors and mechanics.
Component replacements: The inspection might indicate worn components that require replacement. This depends on the specific condition of the vehicle.
Other system repairs: The shop might find other malfunctioning systems affected by the problem that require replacements and/or computer reprogramming. For example, replacing parts of the transmission system that are worn out due to low lubrication can cost north of $1,000.

Signs that you need an oil change

Your vehicle needs an oil change when its oil is too gritty and dark, when the engine is making odd noises, burning smells, or when the dashboard displays a “check engine” light, etc. Let’s discuss these signs and some other ones in more detail:

Dirty or dark oil – Fresh oil is amber and clear; old oil looks dark and gritty.
Oil change or check engine light is on – The dashboard might signal it's time.
Engine noise or knocking – Oil reduces friction. Low or old oil can cause increased engine noise.
Excess exhaust smoke – A small amount of vapor is normal, but visible smoke may indicate oil problems.
Oil change interval has passed – If it’s been 3,000 to 7,500 miles (depending on your car), it might be overdue.
Burning oil smell – Could mean oil is leaking and burning on hot engine parts.
Poor fuel economy – The engine works harder with dirty oil, which can lower gas mileage.
Rough engine performance – You might notice sluggish acceleration or a rough idle.

What’s at risk with oil problems?

Some other car parts that rely on oil will suffer. Here are some of these parts and how much they might add to the repair cost if the vehicle has oil problems:

Engine bearings – $1,000 to $3,000
Piston rings – $1,500 to $4,000
Camshaft – $1,000 to $2,500
Turbocharger – $1,500 to $3,500
Oil pump – $400 to $1,200
Crankshaft – $2,000 to $4,000
Cylinder head – $2,000 to $5,000
Timing chain – $800 to $2,000

You’ll run safety risks if your vehicle keeps driving with oil problems. Here are some unexpected things that can go wrong:

Engine seizure – The engine can lock up while driving, causing a sudden loss of power and control.
Overheating – Lack of lubrication causes heat buildup, which can lead to breakdowns or engine fires.
Stalling in traffic – Dirty or low oil can cause the engine to shut off unexpectedly, putting you at risk in fast-moving lanes.
Loss of braking assist – Some systems rely on engine power; if the engine fails, braking may become harder.
Power steering failure – If the engine dies, you could lose steering assist, making the car hard to turn.
Increased chance of fire – Leaking oil can drip onto hot engine parts, creating a serious fire hazard.

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Pinpoint the Issue

Has it been more than 6 months since your last oil change?

Even if you don’t drive much, oil breaks down over time. It gets old, loses its protective power, and can cause engine wear.
Have you driven more than 5,000 miles since your last oil change?

Most cars need fresh oil every 3,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on the oil type and engine. Going past that range means your oil might be dirty and less effective.
Have you noticed the oil light or check engine light come on recently?

That light is your car's way of warning you something’s off — low oil, dirty oil, or pressure problems. Ignoring it can lead to major engine damage.
Does the engine sound louder or rougher than usual when driving?

Clean oil helps your engine run smoothly. If it sounds off or noisy, the oil might not be doing its job right anymore.
Do you smell something burnt when the engine is hot or right after parking?

That burnt smell could mean oil is leaking and hitting hot engine parts — a sign that it’s time for service, or the oil is too old and thin to stay sealed.
Have you seen smoke or more exhaust than normal coming from the tailpipe?

Excess smoke can mean oil is being burned inside the engine, which usually points to old or degraded oil, or a deeper problem tied to overdue maintenance.

FAQ on Oil Change

Q: How much does an oil change actually cost?
A: It depends on what kind of oil your car takes:
- Conventional oil: $35–$60
- Synthetic blend: $45–$70
- Full synthetic: $65–$120+
Luxury cars and some newer engines usually require full synthetic, which costs more but lasts longer.
Q: Why is synthetic oil more expensive?

A: It’s like comparing fast food to a home-cooked meal. Synthetic oil is made in a lab to perform better — it lasts longer, protects better in extreme temps, and keeps your engine cleaner. So yeah, it costs more up front, but you won’t need to change it as often.
Q: How often do I really need an oil change?
A: Depends on your car and oil type:
- Conventional oil: Every 3,000–5,000 miles or 3 months
- Synthetic oil: Every 7,500–10,000 miles or 6–12 months
If you don’t drive a lot, go by time. If you drive a lot, go by mileage. Always check your owner's manual for the sweet spot.
Q: Can I drive past the recommended oil change time?

A: Technically, yes. But the longer you wait, the more you’re gambling with engine damage. Oil gets dirty and loses its magic. You might not notice anything at first, but long-term damage is real — and expensive.
Q: Does getting an oil change include anything else?
A: At most places, yes. A basic oil change usually comes with:
- New oil filter
- Fluid top-offs (coolant, windshield washer, etc.)
- Tire pressure check
- Quick inspection (belts, hoses, etc.)
Some shops even rotate your tires if you ask. It’s smart to check what’s included before you book.
Q: Can I just do it myself to save money?

A: You could — if you’re comfortable getting under the car and disposing of the old oil properly. A DIY oil change might cost $20–$40, depending on the oil and filter you buy. But if you don’t like getting messy or don’t have the tools, paying a shop saves time and hassle.
Q: What happens if I never change my oil?

A: Honestly? Your engine will eventually choke, overheat, and die. Old oil turns into thick sludge, parts wear out, and the repair bill could be thousands. Not worth the risk.
Q: What’s the cheapest way to get an oil change without getting ripped off?
A:
- Look for promotions or coupons — lots of places do discounts for first-timers.
- Chain shops (like Jiffy Lube or Valvoline) usually have flat-rate deals.
- Local mechanics might give you a better price if you ask.
- Be honest about your driving habits — you might not need full synthetic if you don’t do long trips or extreme weather.
Q: Is it bad to switch oil types (like from conventional to synthetic)?

A: Not at all. In fact, most cars can handle the switch just fine. Some people even mix them — it’s called a synthetic blend. Just don’t go cheap and switch back and forth all the time. Pick one and stick to it if your car runs well on it.

Typical fixes to address the cause(s)

These are typical processes and repair services that fix a check engine light issue

What is vehicle oil, after all?

The oil is a lubricant. It basically flows inside your vehicle, lubricating everything it comes in contact with, pushing small residues away, and coating everything to make things smooth.

Why is it so important?

Because inside your engine, a bunch of metal parts are constantly moving, rubbing against each other really fast. Without oil, that metal-on-metal action causes heat, wear, and damage. Oil:

Lubricates everything, so parts don’t grind and wear out.
Cools down the engine by carrying away heat.
Cleans up dirt and tiny metal bits, keeping the engine from clogging up.
Protects against rust and corrosion.

How exactly does it work inside the vehicle?

Once you start the engine:

A pump pushes the oil through little paths inside the engine.
It coats every moving part like a slip-n-slide.
It soaks up heat and catches dirt like a sponge.
Then it circles back, gets filtered, and does it all again.

It just keeps looping around, nonstop, the whole time your engine’s on.

Why can't we just keep driving with the same oil forever?

Because oil gets tired and dirty over time.

It picks up grime, dust, and tiny bits of metal.
The heat breaks it down, so it loses its slickness.
Dirty oil turns into thick sludge that clogs up the engine.

And when that happens? Your engine has to work way harder, parts wear out faster, and boom — one day it just gives up. And trust me, replacing an engine costs way more than just changing the oil.

DIY test to see if your vehicle needs an oil change

1. Peek at Your Dashboard

Start your car and look for any oil light or check engine light.
If it’s on, don’t ignore it — your car’s literally begging for attention.

2. Listen to the Engine

Does your car sound louder than usual?
Any ticking, knocking, or rough vibes when you accelerate? That could be your engine telling you it’s feeling dry and stressed.

3. Sniff Around

Smell something kinda burnt after driving?
Could be oil leaking and burning — not a good sign.

4. Watch the Exhaust

Is your tailpipe kicking out more smoke than usual?
Light vapor is fine. But if it’s looking like a BBQ out back, you might have oil issues.

5. Check Your Records (Lazy MVP move)

Pull out your last oil change receipt or check that little sticker on your windshield.
Has it been 3,000 to 7,500 miles since your last change?
Or more than 3 to 6 months? Then yeah... It's probably time.

How to get transparent, long-lasting repairs

If you want to fix the root cause, relying on online price estimates is misleading. Online estimates will only price the specific repair, e.g., the oil change, and they won’t consider whether your vehicle needs an inspection to investigate and deal with the problem as a whole.

The solution for the root cause of your vehicle needing an oil change is based specifically on your vehicle’s condition. This involves many components and procedures that won’t appear on online estimates because every case has specific needs.

The best way to get a precise estimate is to seek shops with a “transparency process” to perform an oil system inspection for you. Their transparency relies on documenting everything about your oil’s condition and clarifying their findings using edited images and videos they took of your car, explaining their suggestions and quotes.

Let’s see an example of an oil system investigation because of oil problems.

A Transparent, Long-lasting Oil System Inspection Example

A complete oil system inspection checks everything about the system’s condition, investigates chronic issues, and checks if all oil components (oil lines, oil pan, pumps, engine, connectors, etc.) work as expected.

For instance, if a shop is requested to do an oil system inspection due to a contaminated oil, the mechanics will look through each oil-related component, even getting to the engine’s pulleys and valves.

They’ll check every component for signs of wear, tear, or leaks to find if something has contaminated or leaked the oil. The inspection may reveal that various components need replacement and identify the culprit contaminating the oil.

The 'Find Shops Providing a DVI' Method

A shop with transparent inspections commonly does DVIs too, which are free-of-charge visual inspections with the same level of transparency. You can find shops providing a DVI to get the reassurance that any inspection or repair will also be transparent.

This method focuses on two things:

Does the shop have a modern DVI?
Does the shop have certifications?

What’s a DVI? As mentioned earlier, it’s like an annual physical visit to the doctor to assess the body’s vital signs, but for a car instead; most auto repair shops don’t charge to do it. The DVI regularly creates your vehicle’s “state of health,” explaining its overall condition.

The mechanic uses the DVI results to inform the conditions of your vehicle’s systems and the recommendations to get it running reliably. If they find issues, they’ll list them in order of priority.

A DVI helps with an Oil Change

The DVI starts with the mechanic checking vehicle systems (Oil pan, Oil lines, the engine’s combustion chamber, transmission, etc.) for signs of wear/tear/leaks. They’ll document everything through notes, videos, and pictures.

Here are some important things about a DVI:

It’s a visual inspection: The mechanic looks at the car’s components’ surface, searching for obvious problem signs.
It also checks for noises: The mechanic listens to your car's sounds and points out unusual noises.
It does not include further testing: A DVI doesn’t mean in-depth tests and investigations; it’s a surface-level report that tells whether a car needs evident repairs or deeper inspections.

If they spot oil issues, they’ll edit images and videos to indicate what they found (damages, leaks, components’ locations, etc.). They’ll use arrows, circles, and text to make the images clear and easy to understand.

Note that the DVI doesn't involve additional testing, so the advisor will be taking notes based on what they see (visual inspection). In the image below, the mechanic found an oil leak under the vehicle; it was coming from the oil cooler hoses, and the oil was leaking on top of other components, damaging them.

Oil cooler hoses discharging, allowing oil to seep into hot car components and burn, releasing a burning oil smell

A document with the vehicle’s health status is sent to the customer, with room for questions through online/phone or over-the-counter communication. The customer sees what repair priorities their vehicle has and what should be checked in the near future.

In this case, they’ll see an oil cooler hose replacement and rubber seals and connectors replacement priority. The focus is to educate and help the customer make informed decisions about their car.

Certifications that help you

Today’s auto industry has certifications for customer-educational and transparent businesses. For example, the AutoTechIQ certification makes shops that fit into the DVI method stand out on your local map. So you can find the one closest to you.

The shops with an AutoTechIQ certification typically feature 100+ excellent Google reviews! You can quickly find this certification on a shop’s website or using AutoTechIQ’s “Find a shop” map.