Lauren Wants To Know

Who do you trust to change your oil?

Let me ask you this … are you more apt to go to the dealership or an auto repair chain when you need service?  How about for an oil change?

I think it’s important to share some common myths about dealerships and oil change centers.

Myth #1 : Oil changes are cheaper at an oil change center than at the dealership.

After gathering from the six McCarthy dealerships, an average oil change is around $31. And, after speaking to a gentlemen at the nearest chain shop, the cost was $36.99 plus tax (and an additional $4.99 if it exceeds 5 quarts). Interesting!

Myth #2: It’s quicker to get your oil changed at an oil change center. Afterall, they are called “quick” oil change shops.

At our dealerships, on average, 45 minutes is the allotted time for an oil change. And after calling a different, chain shop in Overland Park, KS a wait of 1 and a half hours was given to me.

Another reason, and probably the most important one, is the quality of work at the dealer. Dealership service professionals are master technicians and have certification levels, years of training and education, checklists provided by manufacturers … the list goes on. And a customer who takes their vehicle to the dealer each time will not only earn good will, but a better resale value on the vehicle when they trade it back in (all records documented). So, utilize the dealer!

Do you take your vehicle to a dealership to get your oil changed? Why or why not?

The latest poll question was :You know it’s time for an oil change, what do you do?”

Your choices were:

1. I’m on top of things and probably already took it in
2. Take my car in right on time
3. Wait a bit and when I get around to it, take it in
4. Make my husband take it in
5. Avoid it all together

Wow! I’m a little shocked. Out of 46 voters, 70% chose number 1 and 2. Looks like we have some very responsible people out there. I applaud you. For the remainder, thanks for the honesty. It looks like 11% take it in when they come around to it and an equal 11% make their husbands take it in. And, luckily, there were zero votes for number 5; avoid it all together.

Words of advice: Get your oil changed on time. An oil change helps lubricate the internal parts of your vehicle. The fresher the oil, the smoother it runs. And if you maintain it at regular oil changes, you will avoid locking up your motor and ruining your engine (worst case scenerio).

For the 22% of you who wait or nominate a partner to get an oil change, why do you?