Today's vehicles deliver more performance than ever, as each year's models bring new features for safety and convenience. (Wireless phone charging, anyone?) But your vehicle is still a complex machine that needs to be actively maintained. And that all starts with routine oil changes and the right engine oil. Because if the engine isn't running properly, nothing else matters.
Not to worry, though. Maintaining your vehicle's oil is easier than you might think, and Jiffy Lube® is here with the answers to your biggest questions.
HOW MUCH IS AN OIL CHANGE?
Now on to everyone's favorite question: how much is an oil change, exactly? The price of your oil change will depend on a few factors, including the amount of oil required, the type of oil that is used, and the ease of performing the oil change.
To determine the type of oil that's best, your technician will consult the manufacturer's recommendations and ask you for your personal preference. Some drivers prefer conventional oil, while others select full synthetic oil, synthetic blend, or high mileage oils . If recommended by your technician, it's okay to use a different brand than you've used in the past, as long as the oil meets the viscosity grade and specifications listed in your owner manual. Contact your local Jiffy Lube® for pricing based on your vehicle and the type of oil that's right for you.
DO OIL CHANGES PROTECT YOUR ENGINE?
They certainly do. Your motor oil is one of the most important elements inside your vehicle, because it lubricates all the moving pieces in the engine and keeps it running properly. The oil reduces friction, transfers heat, and absorbs the byproducts of combustion to prevent the engine from overheating.
Think about it this way: if you're feeling really hungry, your ability to do work starts to suffer, right? Your engine is that way too. Oil is like food for the components inside the engine and makes it possible for them to do their jobs. If oil gets too low or is no longer fresh, it can lead to sticking piston rings, overheating, or even decreased engine life. So by changing the oil, you're protecting the most important parts of the engine.
HOW MUCH OIL DOES MY CAR NEED?
If we had a nickel for every time someone asked us, "How much oil does my car need," well, we'd have a lot. The truth is, it depends on what kind of vehicle you have. In the past, almost all cars and trucks required five quarts of oil for an oil change. But now, with the greater range of engines found in modern vehicles, that number can range from four quarts to 10 quarts or more. Ask the trained technicians at Jiffy Lube® how much oil is appropriate for your vehicle and if there's an oil that could improve your vehicle's performance. They can recommend a quality Pennzoil® product that meets your manufacturer's guidelines for engine oil.
HOW DO I KNOW WHAT TO DO WHEN MY OIL LIGHT COMES ON?
When the oil light on your dashboard is illuminated, it means your vehicle needs service: likely an oil change and a new oil filter. Take your vehicle to a service center with trained technicians, like your local Jiffy Lube. At Jiffy Lube®, your technician will do more than just replace your oil and filter and put a reminder sticker on your windshield. They'll also perform a full courtesy inspection, including inspecting your vehicle's battery, fluids, lights, and belts. Additionally, they'll check and adjust your tire pressure, clean your exterior windows, and vacuum the carpets inside your vehicle.
HOW LONG DOES AN OIL CHANGE TAKE?
The average oil change takes between 20 and 45 minutes, but the time will vary based on the size of your vehicle, the amount of oil needed, and the ease of access to your vehicle's oil and filter systems. If your vehicle runs on diesel fuel, you'll need diesel motor oil with additional additives—but the oil change itself shouldn't take any extra time. Talk to your technician when you arrive for a Signature Service Oil Change® at Jiffy Lube®. They'll be able to give you a more exact time estimate based on your vehicle type.
CAN'T I JUST TOP OFF THE OIL MYSELF?
Your oil can be topped off in an emergency situation, but it's not a replacement for a proper oil change. That's because the old, worn out oil is still trapped in the system. And when it mixes with the new oil, it keeps that fresh oil from working as well as it should. So a complete oil change involves draining the oil from a drain plug located on the bottom of your engine, under the vehicle.
Recently, some technicians have developed a suction method that removes the oil by siphoning rather than draining. But regardless of which method is used, it's essential that the old oil is removed and that oil changes are performed as often as your manufacturer recommends.
Following those recommendations is critical. So when you're evaluating a service center, don't just ask, "How much is an oil change here?" Make sure to ask whether their technicians follow the guidelines set by your automaker. At Jiffy Lube®, that's what we do every day. And whether your vehicle needs an oil change, new brakes, or you just want an inspection, the technicians at your local Jiffy Lube® are always eager to help.
READ MORE ABOUT IT
If you're wondering whether the "three months or 3,000 miles" rule still applies for oil changes, we've got you covered.
Can you mix synthetic oil with regular oil? The answer may surprise you.
Please note: Not all services are offered at each Jiffy Lube® location. Please check with your local Jiffy Lube® service center or visit jiffylube.com for specific services offered.