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Absolutely. The cost benefit analysis of changing your oil vs getting it done at your mechanic's tilts heavily toward the latter, especially if you only own one
by wenc 3y ago
Absolutely. The cost benefit analysis of changing your oil vs getting it done at your mechanic's tilts heavily toward the latter, especially if you only own one car.
I get full service 5W20 oil change (with fluids top up, oil disposal while no effort and have the assurance that the job will done impeccably) in under 20 minutes for $29 at my local mechanic. I do this 3 times a year, and it's $87.
Whereas I were to do it myself, I'd have to invest in $274 worth of equipment, and the 5W20 itself is about $15. It'll take about 20 oil changes to break even (roughly 6 years) and then after you'll really only be saving $42 a year, not to mention the time cost and oil disposal hassle.
https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a27169631/how-to-change-oil-in-car/ https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a27169631/how-to-chang...
- bittercynic 3y agoI don't quite agree with the economic assessment, as I need the jack, jack stands, wrench for the drain plug, etc. for other maintenance and repair tasks, too. The only single-purpose tool is the oil filter wrench, and that was about $10. Can't argue with your bottom line, though. Even if I consider my time free, I don't really come out ahead. But - I like changing oil in my car. I get to see the oil as it drains out, the color of it, if it's the amount I expect to see, or if the car's burned some since the last change. It's an excuse to look around under the car and notice if there's any unexpected damage. It just feels good to personally take care of a piece of the infrastructure I depend on. I think there's one other big advantage of your way, though: you're maintaining a relationship with a mechanic who you trust.