Performing a DIY oil change can be quite alluring to many drivers. Technically, you have the ability to change your vehicle’s engine oil by yourself. In essence, it’s a relatively straightforward preventive maintenance task. But the real question is whether it’s the right choice.

In this article, we’ll delve into why opting for a professional oil change service is a wiser decision for preserving your engine’s well-being and ensuring your vehicle’s longevity.

The Advantages of Professional Oil Change Service

Certainly, performing your own oil change can give you a sense of accomplishment, especially if you’re someone who finds solace in tinkering with vehicles, regardless of the time it takes. However, the advantages of entrusting your engine’s oil change to a professional mechanic far outweigh the DIY approach. Learn more about oil changes and where to find them in our Comprehensive Oil Change Guide. Some benefits of relying on a professional for your engine’s oil change include:

  1. Time Savings: For most people, their schedules are already packed with commitments and places to be. Time is often equated with money, so dedicating hours to change your own oil, especially if you’re not experienced, can consume a significant part of your day. In contrast, ASE-certified mechanics at a professional auto shop, such as Reliable Automotive, perform numerous oil changes each week. They not only have the expertise to do it correctly but also complete the task more efficiently. Even if you need to wait at the shop, it will likely be less time than what you’d spend on a DIY oil change.
  2. Reduced Risk of Costly Errors: Professional mechanics possess extensive experience, which minimizes the likelihood of errors during an oil change. Even if you invest in the necessary materials and equipment for a DIY oil change, a mistake can lead to additional expenses. Furthermore, if a problem arises shortly after your DIY oil change, the responsibility falls on the mechanic, not you.
  3. Safety Priority: An oil change necessitates raising the vehicle to create enough space for maneuvering underneath. For a DIY oil change, many people rely on wheel ramps or car jacks. Some have even attempted to elevate the front wheels using a curb. However, if not executed properly, these methods can result in vehicle damage and severe personal injury in the event of a mishap. Improper use of car jacks injures thousands of people annually. To avoid joining that statistic, entrust your oil change service to a professional auto shop. They employ safe, automated vehicle lifts that reduce the risk of accidents significantly.
  4. Eliminates Material Worries: Changing your own oil entails acquiring various items beyond just the new oil, such as a car jack stand (or wheel ramps), rubber gloves, a container for the old oil, a funnel, a new oil filter, and the new oil itself. The total cost can quickly add up if you don’t have all these items readily available. In contrast, a professional auto shop already possesses these materials, and the cost of their oil change service is likely to be more economical.
  5. Efficient Oil Disposal: Properly disposing of old oil is a crucial consideration for DIYers. Legally, you cannot dispose of oil in regular trash. Locating a hazardous waste facility and transporting the old oil can be more cumbersome than initially anticipated. When you leave your oil change service to the pros, they are well-prepared to handle oil disposal appropriately.
  6. Early Issue Detection: When an ASE-certified mechanic performs your oil change, your vehicle undergoes a comprehensive inspection by an expert eye. The mechanic can identify immediate problems, catch minor issues early, and provide recommendations for future maintenance. This proactive approach can save you a substantial amount of money by preventing minor issues from evolving into costly repairs.
  7. Access to a Trusted Auto Service Professional: Performing a DIY oil change misses the opportunity to establish a relationship with a dependable mechanic. A reputable auto service shop is dedicated to delivering excellent service, regardless of the required maintenance. Entrusting your vehicle to a professional auto repair shop for routine tasks like oil changes ensures you have a reliable expert to turn to when your vehicle requires more extensive work. You won’t need to worry about finding a trustworthy mechanic if an issue arises; you already have one on speed dial.
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In summary, there are numerous compelling reasons to leave your engine’s oil change service in the capable hands of professionals. Doing so not only saves you time but also prevents unnecessary expenses and headaches. Additionally, it ensures that your engine operates at its best.