Service
Oil changes and scheduled maintenance
Oil changes, fluids, filters and factory-schedule services that keep your car reliable and your records in order.
When to stop driving
A red oil pressure warning is different from a maintenance reminder. If it comes on while you're driving, pull over where it's safe and turn the engine off. Driving with low oil pressure can ruin an engine quickly.
Every car comes with a maintenance schedule from its manufacturer, in the owner's manual or in the maintenance reminder on the dash. Following it with the right oil and parts is the cheapest way to avoid big repairs, and it keeps a clean record if you ever need warranty help or decide to sell.
What this service covers
Oil and filter
The oil type and grade your manufacturer specifies, a new filter and a level check.
Factory scheduled services
The mileage-based services listed for your car, such as 30,000, 60,000 and 90,000 miles, done to the manufacturer's list.
Fluids
Coolant, brake fluid, transmission and differential fluids, and power steering fluid where your car has it.
Filters and spark plugs
Engine air filter, cabin air filter and spark plugs at the intervals in your manual.
Belts, hoses and wipers
Checking for cracks, leaks and wear before they leave you stuck.
Inspections
Tires, brakes, suspension, lights and battery, checked while the car is in.
Common signs you need it
- The oil change or maintenance reminder is on
- You've passed the mileage or time listed in your manual
- The oil is low on the dipstick, or you see spots under the car
- A squeal from under the hood at startup (often a belt)
- It's been about a year since the last service, even with low miles
What to expect
Look up your schedule
Your car's mileage and the manufacturer's schedule decide what's due, not a generic checklist.
Service and inspect
The scheduled items are done and the car gets a once-over while it's in.
Clear recommendations
Anything else found is sorted into needs attention now and can wait, with a written estimate before any extra work.
Records
You get an itemized invoice for your records, which matters for warranty claims and resale.
How long it usually takes
An oil change usually takes under an hour. Larger scheduled services can take a few hours, so many people drop the car off for the day. Your written estimate will say what applies to your car.
Good to know
- Using an independent shop does not void your new-car warranty. Under federal law, a manufacturer can't deny coverage just because someone else did your maintenance. Keep your receipts and use parts and fluids that meet the manufacturer's specifications.
- The 3,000-mile oil change is mostly a thing of the past. Many newer cars run 5,000 to 10,000 miles between changes on synthetic oil, but short trips, heat, towing and dusty roads can count as severe service and shorten the interval.
- Oil color isn't a reliable guide to when a change is due. Go by the oil-life monitor or the schedule.
California: written estimate first
Under California's Automotive Repair Act, a repair shop must give you a written estimate for parts and labor and get your authorization before starting work. If the job turns out to need more than the estimate, the shop has to get your OK before going over it. You can also ask for your replaced parts back when you authorize the work.
Oil and scheduled maintenance: common questions
How often should I change my oil?
Follow your owner's manual or the car's oil-life monitor. For many newer cars that's every 5,000 to 10,000 miles, or at least once a year. Severe use, like lots of short trips, towing or extreme heat, can shorten that.
Do I have to go to the dealer to keep my warranty?
No. Federal law lets you use any shop for routine maintenance. Keep records and receipts, and make sure the parts and fluids meet your manufacturer's specs.
What's the difference between conventional and synthetic oil?
Synthetic oil holds up better to heat and lasts longer, and many newer engines require it. Use whatever your manual specifies.
Car acting up? Let's take a look.
Call (714) 555-0142 or send a request, and we'll find a time that works.