An Opinion About the $19.99 Oil Change

Sure, it’s popular. Why not? I’d love a 15 cent burger or an ice cream cone for 50 cents. But the people that provide that product can’t make money at those prices UNLESS you buy something else. Aha, so that’s the catch!

That’s exactly the point with a $19.99 oil change. If you add up the cost of the oil, the cost of the people who do the work, the supplies, the taxes, the overhead, etc, there is nothing left for the person who provided the product. And don’t kid yourself. All those extras make it impossible for someone to sell an oil change at that price and make a profit. Now maybe you don’t care if the service person you go to makes a profit, but the place won’t be there long. Have you noticed how many of your favorite auto repair facilities are no longer there?

Buy something extra, please

Without mentioning names, there are some giant retailers that also do some car repair and oil changes. They are usually attached to the retail store. It may take as long as an hour or so to get your oil changed, so you might as well go into the store and shop. That is their definition of convenience, but that will cost you a lot more than the price of the oil change.

I am the dealer, trust me

Some people are addicted to their car dealer. They feel they must go to them to keep the warranty in force. That is absolutely not true. The dealer is a franchised retail outlet for the manufacturer, but they are not the actual manufacturer. In many ways they are similar to the other automotive service suppliers, but they like to make you think they are the manufacturer. One other thing…always ask what kind of oil they are using. Many outlets used recycled oil to save cost. If you don’t mind using recycled oil, that’s your choice, but you should know. Also, wouldn’t you like to watch the work being done? Where do they go?

Is Jiffy Lube better?

Here is how Jiffy Lube approaches oil changes: It is the most important maintenance item you can buy for your car. We take it seriously and have dedicated out entire business to preventative maintenance. We value your time, so usually you are in and out in a matter of minutes. That is how we define convenient—nearby, quick and good. All Jiffy Lube Stores use fresh, new oil—major brands that you have heard of and see on TV like Pennzoil, Mobil, Conoco and others. The people that do the work are trained well and supervised by people that have experience in the business. We value your time and we take care of your car. That’s why I think Jiffy Lube is better.

Chuck Graziano