How To Be Confident About Taking Your Car For An Oil Change

Every vehicle you own needs an oil change, but when you take yours in to the shop, you have to make some choices.  Knowing the right choice is difficult without a background in car repair, and nobody wants to be charged for unnecessary services.  With these tips in mind, you can be confident taking your car to your mechanic for that oil change!

  • When To Get Your Oil Changed

One of the first steps is figuring out how often to get your oil changed.  Why pay for an oil change every 3,000 miles when every 5,000 is what your car needs?  Check your car's manual to find out what your car's manufacturer recommends.  The manual may recommend an interval of 3,000, 5,000 or even 10,000 miles

  • Types of Oils

One of the first questions the mechanic will ask is what type of oil you'd like to use for your oil change.  If you aren't sure, you might ask for the most expensive type thinking it is better.  Or, you might opt for the least expensive out of fear of being charged for unnecessary oil for your car.  Again, according to autoblog.com, check your car's user manual. This takes the guesswork out of the answering the question, and you'll feel more comfortable talking to your mechanic about the different types of oil being offered to you.

  • Don't Feel Pressured To Say Yes

You brought your car in for an oil change, but the mechanic is now asking if you want to have your air filter changed or your windshield wipers replaced.  If the mechanic feels that you should have other parts replaced and you agree, you might say yes.  But if you did not plan on paying for extras, simply take note of it so you can comparison shop before having it done.  You can always thank the mechanic for their time and advice and let them know that if you change your mind, you will bring the car back in.

  • Go To A Shop That Allows You To View The Oil Change

Many auto repair shops have video screens that you can watch while you wait for your car to be serviced for the oil change.  Autorepair.about.com recommends placing a small x with a sharpie on your oil filter, so that you will know if the shop gives you a new one.  They also recommend watching to ensure that the correct oil is being put into your car.  This same principal can apply if the mechanic says you need another part fixed (for example, a leak).  Ask the mechanic to show you the broken part or leak so you can see it for yourself.

For more information about this and other auto repair related issues, contact a professional like White Pass Garage.

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