As the price of oil rises, some people are experiencing sticker shock at the pump and the auto shop. One woman says that she was stunned by the cost of an oil change at the dealership.
In a TikTok with over 87,000 views as of this writing, Salty Mom (@sunnycagirl) questions why her oil change was so expensive.
“What is everybody paying for an oil change nowadays?” Salty Mom begins.
She says she bought a new car in April and it was time for her first oil change. So she took her vehicle to the dealership where she bought it.
“First service done on this car. Mind you, it is not a super fancy car. My jaw about hit the floor when I saw the cost,” she shares.
The total cost for the oil change was $245.
“I’m sorry. For what? An oil change? That is highway robbery. That is insanity,” she says.
Although her mind was blown by the cost, it didn’t break the bank. She'd bought a prepaid maintenance package for up to 35,000 miles. She says it cost her $700 through a friends and family discount.
“I almost didn’t buy it, but I did. And holy moly I am glad I did because essentially three oil changes is going to cover the cost of what I paid out of pocket,” she says.
Now she wonders if living in California has anything to do with the steep price for an oil change. Salty Mom notes that she paid $5.99/gallon for gas at Costco. The woman acknowledges that gas and diesel prices are surging, but wonders why the oil change cost $245.
“$245 for an oil change? Goodness gracious, that is expensive,” she concludes.
“They’ve All Gone Into ‘Rip Off’ Mode”
Viewers in the comments section shared what they are paying at quick lube shops and suggested avoiding the dealership.
“75 bucks at Valvoline and you don’t even need to get out of your car,” one wrote.
“$125 and I had a coupon. Valvoline,” another said.
A third wrote, “$50-$100.”
“Don’t take it to the dealership. Get it done at an oil change place,” one suggested.
People who change their oil themselves wasted no time showing up to brag about how much they pay for oil and supplies.
“Walmart 5 quarts Mobil 1 Synthetic = $28 Walmart Mobil 1 oil Filter = $12 Total with tax = Roughly $45,” one flexed.
Another said, “Like $35 takes 15 mins in my front yard.”
“$60 for the supplies because my husband does it,” a third said.
How Much Should An Oil Change Cost?
Getting an oil change is one of the most routine car maintenance tasks. Kelley Blue Book suggests getting an oil change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
The cost of an oil change depends on a variety of factors: the type of oil used, location, service provider, type of vehicle, and if you DIY or go to a professional.
According to AutoZone, conventional oil is the cheapest option. On average, an oil change with conventional will purportedly cost $30 to $50 at a shop. The price jumps for synthetic oil, as this tends to last longer and helps the engine perform better. This will typically cost between $60 to $100, per AutoZone.
Buying your own oil for an oil change ranges from $20 to $40 and the oil filters are between $5 and $15, AutoZone reports.
Many people opt to do this typically simple task themselves. It’s an easy way to save money. But you have to have the tools, knowledge, and space.
Hertz reports these tools include a floor jack, latex gloves, replacement drain plug washer, funnel, oil filter wrench, oil drain pan, jack stand, wheel chocks,and socket wrench.
On paper, changing your own oil costs less over time, but it is another chore. Plus disposing of used oil has its own challenges. Many simply don’t want to deal with it, so they pay professionals.
Ultimately it comes down to if the car owner prefers convenience or doesn’t mind getting their hands dirty.
Motor1 has contacted Salty Mom via TikTok direct message and commented on the post. This post will be updated if she responds.
