The True Cost of a Cheap Oil Change

The True Cost of a Cheap Oil Change

You see them just about anywhere. Bright signs, dancing inflatable figures by the road and mascots waiving you on in to get your 20.00 (or sometimes less) oil change. Seems like a great deal- but is it?

Oil changes are probably the most basic task in maintaining your car. Not changing your oil can lead to increased wear and tear and in extreme cases, lead to break downs and engine failure.

When engine oil gets old, it gets dirty. Hard and gummy particles form and can start to scratch the metal inner workings of your engine. Sediments and ‘gunk’ can also stick to your engine parts, much like plaque on your teeth. Both instances bog down the performance of your car and after many years of inconsistent maintenance, the damage adds up and so do the costs when you factor in fuel economy, potential repairs, etc. A car that could have lasted you many more thousands of miles has to be replaced due to chronic issues.

In extreme cases, oil so old or dirty loses so much viscosity (what makes oil slippery,) that your engine risks overheating. In this case, you risk a breakdown or even a seized engine; this is likely a death sentence for your car.

Enter the bright signs, mascots, etc.

As just about everyone knows, entering a facility that offers a 20.00 oil change means that you are going to be peppered with other suggestions for fixes, service work, offers and scare tactics. This is because the facility is making little to no money on that oil change. Called a loss leader, a cheap oil change is really just a way to get you into their shop. Ultimately, they are not interested in giving you a quality product or service.

Another thing that just about everyone knows is that you get what you pay for. When you buy cheap oil, you get cheap quality. The oil simply doesn’t last and doesn’t manage itself as well as other types of oils on the market. It gets dirty, heats up and cakes on to your engine parts quicker.  It won’t be long before you are right back where you started.  Damage is being done to your car and what you are saving today on a cheap oil change is less than what you will be paying at the gas pump and at your repair shop when issues start popping up.

Steps you should take:

Read your Car Manual

The first step in understanding oil changes and your specific need is to read your car manual. Different cars require specific types of oil and at certain intervals.

Talk with your mechanic

When you go in for an oil change, speak with your mechanic. Discuss your driving habits; if you are doing a lot of highway driving or hauling/towing, your needs are going to be different then the next person. Ask to see the oil and ask them how bad the oil is. If it’s dark and thick like molasses, you’ve waited too long. Even if you follow the 3,000 mile rule, your driving habits may impact that rule of thumb.

Insist on high quality oil

Investing a couple extra bucks on brand name, high quality oil is worth the investment.  High quality oil that keeps your engine running smooth and clean will reward you with a car that will last many more years and at a higher level of efficiency.

BBack Car Care uses only brand name, commercial grade and high quality motor oil in every oil change. This high performing oil is proven to offer high performance and value for dollar. The BBack Car Care team will also be happy to show you your oil at the time of change and make suggestions on how often you should come in to get an oil change based on your vehicle usage.

Ask about our reward program! Buy 3 oil changes, get the 4th on us.

To schedule your oil change, request an appointment online or call us today.