Question For The Car Guys... Re: Oil Changes

[RhymesayersDU]

So, I've got to get my oil changed tomorrow. I realize it's not hard to do this myself, but I'm hitting up Jiffy Lube or something like that.

Anyways, my problem is that I know they're going to hit me up for a bunch of things that needed replacing, filters and the like. It's a problem because we're going to be getting rid of this car most likely before the year is out, and I don't want to put any money into it that I don't absolutely have to.

So my question is: are there types of things (I wish I could give specific examples) I should pay for (i.e., they'd do permanent damage to my engine, and it'd cost me more to fix) and are there things I could pass on and not hurt the vehicle?

[Sassy]

The last time I took my car in they had me replace a fuel filter...It's $700 for a new fuel pump! My car guys are pretty good at telling me when something can wait or not to be replaced.

Edit: Oops...you wanted "car guys" only! :welcome:

[RhymesayersDU]

The last time I took my car in they had me replace a fuel filter...It's $700 for a new fuel pump!

Edit: Oops...you wanted "car guys" only! :welcome:

I meant car people!

Anyways, yikes, I definitely don't want to have to pour $700 into it. Thanks for that.

[Beantown Bronco]

Depends on how many miles you plan on driving in the next few months before you trade it in and how much you expect to get at trade-in. Any single expense that will cost more than $100, unless they can guarantee you won't last more than a month of your type of driving, would probably not get my authorization (and I would take it to an independent local shop as opposed to a quick lube type place for this type of assessment).

Everyone has their own risk/reward threshold and you need to know what yours is.

How old is the car? What kind of car is it? What is the blue book? All these questions should play into your strategy.

[Sassy]

My car has 45,00O miles on it and that's the first time it's been replaced...so it's not something that has to be replaced all the time. Problem was it was 16.99 for the filter and $30 to put in! But definitely worth it!

[Hotrod]

You really should know if your fuel filter is jacked up IMO

[RkyMtnThunder]

you could probably pass on air filter, fuel filter if they say its due. Although if I was selling via private party I would probably change these if needed. if its going to be a trade in - let the dealer worry about that before they put it on their lot.

I would probably replace any belts - serpintine belt might be brought to your attention, etc.

Bigger ticket belts like timing belt is unlikely to be changed at a lube shop


(generic rule of thumb is that fuel filter is replaced every 25k miles)

[Garcia Bronco]

My car has 45,00O miles on it and that's the first time it's been replaced...so it's not something that has to be replaced all the time. Problem was it was 16.99 for the filter and $30 to put in!

ALERT...ALERT...ALERT...female car care advice....ALERT....ALERT.


:)

[Bronco9798]

So, I've got to get my oil changed tomorrow. I realize it's not hard to do this myself, but I'm hitting up Jiffy Lube or something like that.

Anyways, my problem is that I know they're going to hit me up for a bunch of things that needed replacing, filters and the like. It's a problem because we're going to be getting rid of this car most likely before the year is out, and I don't want to put any money into it that I don't absolutely have to.

So my question is: are there types of things (I wish I could give specific examples) I should pay for (i.e., they'd do permanent damage to my engine, and it'd cost me more to fix) and are there things I could pass on and not hurt the vehicle?

If you keep maintenance records on your vehicle, you will know by the manufactures recommendation on what and when something needs changed. I always take my car to the dealer where I bought it from, even for an oil change. That way they know what exactly needs changed and when. Your records that are kept on their computers and your own records you keep will be exactly the same. At least this works for me. I've never had any problems with being told I need something when in reality I don't.

Some people hate going to the dealers for fear of being ripped off, but the Jiffy Lubes and drive thru places are more apt to rip you off in the service area than the dealer if you keep records of all your service trips.

Just my opinion.

[Sassy]

ALERT...ALERT...ALERT...female car care advice....ALERT....ALERT.


:)

Brat! Hey, at least I take my car in on a regular basis!

[Garcia Bronco]

You should replace you oil and oil filter every 3000 to 5000 miles and rotate your tires every oil change...air filter every 10,000 miles or 6 months...which comes first. Probably can hold off on transmisson fluid and cleaning the fuel injectors.

[Garcia Bronco]

Brat! Hey, at least I take my car in on a regular basis!

ROFL!

[Sassy]

Hmm...I thought rotating tires was every other...

[Popps]

Anyways, my problem is that I know they're going to hit me up for a bunch of things that needed replacing, filters and the like. It's a problem because we're going to be getting rid of this car most likely before the year is out, and I don't want to put any money into it that I don't absolutely have to.

So my question is: are there types of things (I wish I could give specific examples) I should pay for (i.e., they'd do permanent damage to my engine, and it'd cost me more to fix) and are there things I could pass on and not hurt the vehicle?

Unless you're hearing noises, or are due for a timing belt change (which you wouldn't do there)... most of what they do is routine and wouldn't kill your car immediately if you didn't do it. Since you're not keeping it, I'd say do oil, filters and just make sure fluid levels are good. Whomever buys it will want to take it in and get a complete service done, anyway. (Trans fluid flush, radiator, etc.)

Don't let them sell you on fuel filters, etc. Just do a basic oil and air filter (check that one yourself and make SURE it needs it) change and you can at least show the prospective buyer that you have done some recent maintenance.

[Hotrod]

Hmm...I thought rotating tires was every other...

I've honestly never rotated a tire in my life.

[Popps]

Also... WATCH them do the work. Get as close to them as you can and make sure they know it...

http://youtube.com/watch?v=wiCAJ8ULnaI

[Los Broncos]

I take my car to jiffy. I always do what the manufacturer says is best. It all adds up pretty fast, but its worth to me. Puts my mind at ease when im driving knowing that i have done everything i can to avoid a break down.

[Sassy]

I've honestly never rotated a tire in my life.

Better gas mileage ;D

[Cito Pelon]

So, I've got to get my oil changed tomorrow. I realize it's not hard to do this myself, but I'm hitting up Jiffy Lube or something like that.

Anyways, my problem is that I know they're going to hit me up for a bunch of things that needed replacing, filters and the like. It's a problem because we're going to be getting rid of this car most likely before the year is out, and I don't want to put any money into it that I don't absolutely have to.

So my question is: are there types of things (I wish I could give specific examples) I should pay for (i.e., they'd do permanent damage to my engine, and it'd cost me more to fix) and are there things I could pass on and not hurt the vehicle?

Do the oil change yourself with Amsoil synthetic 5-30w once a year or 25000 miles. Do a full cooling system flush every two years. Amsoil synthetic in the tranny, transfer case and differential every 100,000 miles, K&N air filter, and you'll be ok.

So what's the deal, we're all interested to know if it's the Scion or what?

[dbfan4life]

So, I've got to get my oil changed tomorrow. I realize it's not hard to do this myself, but I'm hitting up Jiffy Lube or something like that.

Anyways, my problem is that I know they're going to hit me up for a bunch of things that needed replacing, filters and the like. It's a problem because we're going to be getting rid of this car most likely before the year is out, and I don't want to put any money into it that I don't absolutely have to.

So my question is: are there types of things (I wish I could give specific examples) I should pay for (i.e., they'd do permanent damage to my engine, and it'd cost me more to fix) and are there things I could pass on and not hurt the vehicle?

I usually do my own oil and maintenence but I do, from time to time, use one of those speed lube places. They're going to recommend a couple things. I always refuse to let them take care of them for a couple of reasons. First, cost. It always cost more for a filter there than if you just went to Autozone or Checkers and did it yourself. Second, I'm not always sure that their recommendations are accurate or if they're just trying to hose me. They will usually provide a printout of their suggestions. If something needs replacing - I'll just do it myself. On the other hand, if you know nothing about cars, you can take the printout to your mechanic - see if he agrees.

[Cito Pelon]

My car has 45,00O miles on it and that's the first time it's been replaced...so it's not something that has to be replaced all the time. Problem was it was 16.99 for the filter and $30 to put in! But definitely worth it!

Every two years. I don't f around with fuel filters. In the old days you could buy them four for two dollars and pop them right into a gap in the fuel line. Now with fuel injection you want that fuel manufacturer-spec clean. Every two years for $90 isn't a big deal to me. Coincide it with a cooling system flush and an alignment, you can get a deal.

[Los Broncos]

I spent fifty on a k&n filter, last forever.

[Cito Pelon]

I usually do my own oil and maintenence but I do, from time to time, use one of those speed lube places. They're going to recommend a couple things. I always refuse to let them take care of them for a couple of reasons. First, cost. It always cost more for a filter there than if you just went to Autozone or Checkers and did it yourself. Second, I'm not always sure that their recommendations are accurate or if they're just trying to hose me. They will usually provide a printout of their suggestions. If something needs replacing - I'll just do it myself. On the other hand, if you know nothing about cars, you can take the printout to your mechanic - see if he agrees.

I do my own lube points and put Amsoil in once a year in the engine, once every 100k everywhere else. These bums touch the collars on the lube points and figure its good. I have my own greasegun and I make sure I pump a little new grease into the lube points.

[RkyMtnThunder]

Do the oil change yourself with Amsoil synthetic 5-30w once a year or 25000 miles. Do a full cooling system flush every two years. Amsoil synthetic in the tranny, transfer case and differential every 100,000 miles, K&N air filter, and you'll be ok.

So what's the deal, we're all interested to know if it's the Scion or what?

I use fully synth in my cars with intervals of every 10k. The cars manufacturer says I could go w/ 15k intervals but I feel better off going every 10k.

I realize you can go longer with full synth - but every 25k sounds a bit much?

[Cito Pelon]

I use fully synth in my cars with intervals of every 10k. The cars manufacturer says I could go w/ 15k intervals but I feel better off going every 10k.

I realize you can go longer with full synth - but every 25k sounds a bit much?

Amsoil is good stuff, been using it since 1978 when my uncle introduced me to it. I was visiting him in Pomona, and these bike and car racers kept coming to the door for their Amsoil shipments. So I took a good look at it, and it's good stuff. I buy it online now with my neighbor at wholesale. I converted him four years ago when it was 10 below and my truck started up without a rattle, and his truck sounded at startup like a rusty lawnmower for about 15 seconds. Their 5-30 engine oil is guaranteed with their $15 filter for one year or 25k. I've run Amsoil in my manual transmissions, transfer cases and rearends for many a year, can't beat the 100k smooth mileage.

http://www.amsoil.com/products.aspx

[Florida_Bronco]

First off, I'd avoid Jiffy Lube like the plague.

[24champ]

First off, I'd avoid Jiffy Lube like the plague.

Yup or any other oil change chain like Jiffy Lube. Personally I go to a family owned car shop where they don't try to sell me BS.

[Broncojef]

I used to manage an Instant oil Change pre-military days in Michigan. I think they are an awesome service for the price. You can change oil yourself and take the time to do it, get the tools, mess yourself up and try figuring out what to do with the used oil. Or go somewhere that they have everything needed and can give you real feedback on how everything on your car looks. I know cars inside out and will gladly pay the $30 or whatever it is. The guys for the most part everywhere I've been are good guys that don't oversell. I've seen nasty air cleaners where the worker brings it to the customer for inspection and the dude says yeah maybe next time like these kids are trying to sell them something they don't need. The problem is people own vehicles and know nothing about them or worse yet won't spend $50 that may save the engine from blowing up or the fuel filter that may cut lifeblood to the engine. I'm a Vette guy so I guess performance matters to me, maybe on a Honda or Subaru it doesn't really matter.

[Malcontent]

Make sure they check the windshield wiper fluid levels. A proper car owner should NEVER leave the garage without it. This message on behalf of the Council for the completely obvious.

[Sassy]

Make sure they check the windshield wiper fluid levels. A proper car owner should NEVER leave the garage without it. This message on behalf of the Council for the completely obvious.

Ha!
That is something even I know how to do!

[Kaylore]

Fuel filters are like 6 bucks at walmart. Don't let car people screw you.

[Malcontent]

Make sure the oil filter is threaded on properly, or severe engine damage may occur!

Pg. 56 car care manual.

[Los Broncos]

First off, I'd avoid Jiffy Lube like the plague.

Give me one good reason?

[Los Broncos]

Fuel filters are like 6 bucks at walmart. Don't let car people screw you.

Most repairs ill do myself if i can. Like my fuel filter, i go to Toyota and buy for 12 bucks and put it in myself. They want 35 to do it for me :rofl:

[Sassy]

With time and money to get there...it'd be worth it! Ha!

[Florida_Bronco]

Give me one good reason?

They're generally incompetent.

[bap454]

Give me one good reason?

First off they seem to have an endless supply of blinker fluid. Then the weird looking guy with hairy, sweaty crack keeps looking at me funny as hes rubbing his moobs ( man boobs) all over the glass... just doesnt feel right.Hilarious!

[Los Broncos]

They're generally incompetent.

Ive had one bad visit. But other than that its been pretty good for me.

Even a broken clock is right twice a day.

[Los Broncos]

First off they seem to have an endless supply of blinker fluid. Then the weird looking guy with hairy, sweaty crack keeps looking at me funny as hes rubbing his moobs ( man boobs) all over the glass... just doesnt feel right.Hilarious!

Ahh man melons

[Florida_Bronco]

Ive had one bad visit. But other than that its been pretty good for me.

Even a broken clock is right twice a day.

I took my car there once and the level of idiocy was high enough that I wouldn't go back. I've also had friends who have had cars damaged while at Jiffy Lube.

[Los Broncos]

I took my car there once and the level of idiocy was high enough that I wouldn't go back. I've also had friends who have had cars damaged while at Jiffy Lube.

Thats to bad.

On my bad visit, they said i blew my head gasket. They showed me anti freeze on my head, but i knew it was a lie.

[Florida_Bronco]

Thats to bad.

On my bad visit, they said i blew my head gasket. They showed me anti freeze on my head, but i knew it was a lie.

Yeah, things like that are pretty common.

I had a friend with a 2001 Bullitt Mustang GT who took his car to Jiffy Lube. While changing his tranny fluid, they over tightened a bolt so much that they actually cracked the trans case. Well rather than telling my friend what happened and offering to fix it, they just put some kind of sealant on the crack and sent him on his way.

Well unfortunately a sealant is not going to hold on that and on the way home the crack opened up, trans fluid leaked out and of course the trans was destroyed.

[azbroncfan]

They are going to try and get you to change your air filter where they will charge you 20 bucks to change which you can do in 2 minutes. Just tell them you want the oil changed and NOTHING ELSE.

[crazyhorse]

There is no way to determine what you need and dont need by asking people on the net. What you can do is take it to someone you trust. If you dont know anyone like that, then take it to a dealership.

Fact is, you have every right to refuse any suggestion they give you.

Things that are normally checked during an oil change are things like your pcv valve, air filter and other fluid levels.

If the car runs perfectly when you enter the garage then just get the oil change.

[TailgateNut]

So, I've got to get my oil changed tomorrow. I realize it's not hard to do this myself, but I'm hitting up Jiffy Lube or something like that.

Anyways, my problem is that I know they're going to hit me up for a bunch of things that needed replacing, filters and the like. It's a problem because we're going to be getting rid of this car most likely before the year is out, and I don't want to put any money into it that I don't absolutely have to.

So my question is: are there types of things (I wish I could give specific examples) I should pay for (i.e., they'd do permanent damage to my engine, and it'd cost me more to fix) and are there things I could pass on and not hurt the vehicle?



MHO: Jiffy lube and the "likes" will usually try to sell you air filters, pcv's and various other items. Just take note, tell them no thank you and then go to your local auto parts store and buy them. The mark-up at Quick lubes is generally in the double to triple range.

[TailgateNut]

First off, I'd avoid Jiffy Lube like the plague.


DING, DING, DING.

I stopped going, and allowing my wife and kids to go years ago. I'd rather do it myself and know everything is ok with my vehicles (it's also a valuable lesson for the boys). The costs are not the issue and I've had a few bad experiences with "grease Monkey and All tune and Lube over the years.

[Circle Orange]

Oil and filter...no biggies. Also, make sure your tires are checked and rotated properly, pressure and all. Saves fuel mileage, along with the oil change.

If you aren't having any major problems I'd say that's it, other than maybe having your ac flushed (not sure how hot it is where you are.) Generally I go to my dealer since anything they do is insured and if there are parts involved, they're right in the shop. Besides if they screw up they're liable. Not that I've had problems. Dealers give coupons too, on the next oil change. At least mine does.

Oops, another girl answering. Oh well...;D

[Crushaholic]

Jiffy Lube always shows me the manufacturer's recommendations and gives me the option of doing or not doing it. I trust them to do the job correctly. Of course, that's my local Jiffy Lube. Other people across the country may have a different experience.

[TailgateNut]

Jiffy Lube always shows me the manufacturer's recommendations and gives me the option of doing or not doing it. I trust them to do the job correctly. Of course, that's my local Jiffy Lube. Other people across the country may have a different experience.


I don't know where you live, but "in my neck-o-da-woods" the "Jiffy lube Techs" just graduated from "lettuce station 101".

[Sprout]

Ive had one bad visit. But other than that its been pretty good for me.

Even a broken clock is right twice a day.

All it takes is one bad visit to really mess up your car. After my one bad visit, I parked the car at home and a little while later noticed a puddle of oil underneath. They didn't bother to tighten the drain plug. Any looser, and I'd have driven with an oil starved engine.

Since then, it's a DIY job. Cleanup and hauling to recycle are an enormous drag, but on the flipside, I can use better oil and a better filter. Knowledge that the drain plug is installed correctly shouldn't have to be considered a bonus, but it sadly is.

[bendog]

Car guys say that with new (non synthetic oils) every 5K miles, or even 7K. Oils are better than when it was 3.5K.

I've always had oil filters put on at every change. I did it myself until it was no longer ok to pour the oil in the sewer, and even then I used to know a gas station crew that would take my old oil, but now I just have the regular mechanic do it when the car's getting other work. Generally, there are coupons in local papers sports sections for cheaper the Jiffy deals at places like Firestone outlets. I take my bicycle and drop a car off on Saturdays when I need an oil change. 20bucks with the filter is a good deal.

Air filters are easy. If your owner's manual says you needed one 10-25K miles ago, go to Napa and they'll set you up. Snap out, snap in.

And it turns out my wife didn't chip in on her new tires. $587 for 4 new michelins, but they got nice tread, and Sams Club had a $60 buck rebate. She'll pay the motels, and maybe she'll buy a tank of gas.

[Garcia Bronco]

I bought my ride with pre-paid maintenance....not really a good idea.

[bendog]

oops, I'm paying for at least one motel too.

[orange 4 life]

I bought my ride with pre-paid maintenance....not really a good idea.

depends on the program dontcha think?

some of them are crap, but ive got one right now (from chrysler motor company) that will give customers 20 oil changes for 19 bucks a pop. nothin wrong with that!!

[Los Broncos]

All it takes is one bad visit to really mess up your car. After my one bad visit, I parked the car at home and a little while later noticed a puddle of oil underneath. They didn't bother to tighten the drain plug. Any looser, and I'd have driven with an oil starved engine.

Since then, it's a DIY job. Cleanup and hauling to recycle are an enormous drag, but on the flipside, I can use better oil and a better filter. Knowledge that the drain plug is installed correctly shouldn't have to be considered a bonus, but it sadly is.

That was stupid, how can they forget to tighten the plug? At any rate, they are stupid but for me its about convenience. If i need one of my belts changed i just have them do it there or a sensor.

[Garcia Bronco]

depends on the program dontcha think?

some of them are crap, but ive got one right now (from chrysler motor company) that will give customers 20 oil changes for 19 bucks a pop. nothin wrong with that!!

right...but I don't get to chose what oil goes into my car. I'll never do it again.

[orange 4 life]

right...but I don't get to chose what oil goes into my car. I'll never do it again.

yeah that makes sense. i dont really care (and trust the guys at the shop), so i think its pretty cool, but i'd feel the same way in your shoes.

[Los Broncos]

yeah that makes sense. i dont really care (and trust the guys at the shop), so i think its pretty cool, but i'd feel the same way in your shoes.

I mean had there ever been anyone more dishonest than a mechanic.

[Circle Orange]

Boy, there must be some really bad Jiffy Lubes around...none in my area ever messed up like that.

Pep Boys is good. I bought my own oil in their main store, went into the garage and told them to use it for the change. worked out fine.

[OrangeShadow]

I change my oil myself its cheaper depending on what oil you use and where you would go to have it done.
Plus its just more fun doing it on your own car