Comprehending the time frame of an oil change isn’t just a schedule consideration — it’s an acknowledgement of the fundamental role oil plays in our vehicle’s reliability. Truth is, how long does an oil change take really depends on type of vehicle and where its getting serviced.
Typically, for a standard oil change by a professional mechanic, you’re looking at approximately 30 to 45 minutes. But remember, this can fluctuate depending on several factors, such as your car’s make and model, the type of oil, location of oil filter, and the shop’s level of busyness.
As a car owner, it’s important to stay up-to-date on best practices when it comes to taking care of your vehicle. Perhaps one of the most important maintenance needed in a timely matter is oil changes.
While an oil change isn’t the most time consuming of tasks, it does require some preplanning. Fact is, there are better times than others to get your beloved vehicle into the shop for that oil change.
We understand – you’re busy and don’t want to wait around while your car is getting an oil change.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what takes place during an oil change service and answer the question: how long does an oil change take?
Understanding The Oil Service Process
Before we move further, let’s take a minute to unravel the whole process of an oil change. It’s more than just draining the old and pouring in the new, you know. Think of it as a meticulous dance, a series of steps designed to ensure your vehicle’s health and longevity.
Generally, the oil service process starts like this:
- The Inspection: Before the service begins, a mechanic will usually check your vehicle’s overall condition. This might include your brakes, tires, and fluids. It’s like a doctor’s check-up, but for your car.
- Draining the Old Oil: This is where the heart of the operation lies. The mechanic removes the oil drain plug, and out comes the old, grimy oil, dark as the night sky.
- Replacing the Oil Filter: The old oil filter, a silent warrior against contaminants, is replaced with a fresh one.
- Adding New Oil: Finally, the new, amber-colored oil is poured in, ready to take on the task of keeping your engine running smoothly.
Why the Oil Service Duration Varies
The world isn’t black and white, and neither is the time it takes for an vehicle maintenance. Different factors can throw a wrench in the works, causing the duration to stretch or shrink.
Fact is, two factors affect how long it takes to drain and refill an engine with oil:
- Vehicle’s Make and Model: Some vehicles are trickier than others. Their oil filters might be hard to reach.
- Removal of The Under Engine Cover: Most modern cars have plastic panels, commonly referred to as engine splash shields. These panels cover the bottom of the car, and need to be removed in order to access the oil drain plug and oil filter.
- Shop’s Busyness: If it’s rush hour at the garage, even a simple oil change might take a little longer.
What Are the Best Days and Times For an Oil Change?
So, when’s the best time to make that oil service appointment? If it’s a smooth, speedy service you’re after, consider aiming for the middle of the week, preferably on a Tuesday or Wednesday.
Why, you ask? Well, most folks tend to schedule their car maintenance on the weekend or Monday, causing these days to be busier than a beehive at springtime. By choosing a mid-week day, you might just sidestep those bustling crowds.
As for the best time of day, try to hit the early bird special. An appointment first thing in the morning, right when the shop opens, can mean you’re one of the first in line. It’s like catching the worm before the rest of the birds even open their eyes!
Remember, though, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. Each shop has its unique ebb and flow. But a bit of strategic timing could turn your oil service chore into a breezy, in-and-out affair.
Top Oil Change Shops in the U.S. and Estimated Service Times for Oil Changes
From well-known oil change shops to major car brand dealerships, below is a list of popular oil service centers in the U.S. along with their estimated service times.
| Shop | Estimated Service Time for Oil Change |
|---|---|
| Jiffy Lube | 15 to 30 minutes |
| Valvoline Instant Oil Change | 15 to 20 minutes |
| Meineke Car Care Center | 30 minutes |
| Midas | 30 to 45 minutes |
| Firestone Complete Auto Care | 20 to 30 minutes |
| Walmart Auto Care Centers | 30 to 60 minutes |
| Goodyear Auto Service | 30 to 45 minutes |
| Pep Boys | 30 to 45 minutes |
| Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers | 10 to 20 minutes |
| Valvoline Express Care | 15 to 20 minutes |
| Ford Dealership | 30 minutes to 1 hour |
| Toyota Dealership | 30 minutes to 1 hour |
| Honda Dealership | 30 minutes to 1 hour |
| Chevrolet Dealership | 30 minutes to 1 hour |
| Kia Dealership | 30 minutes to 1 hour |
| Hyundai Dealership | 30 minutes to 1 hour |
| Nissan Dealership | 30 minutes to 1 hour |
| Dodge Dealership | 30 minutes to 1 hour |
| Mazda Dealership | 30 minutes to 1 hour |
Frequently Asked Questions
To further satisfy your curiosity, let’s dig into some of the most commonly asked questions about oil changes.
Does scheduling an oil change guarantee speedy service?
Generally yes, scheduling an oil change in advance helps reduce wait times at a service center. It doesn’t guarantee instant service, but it increases efficiency.
Can I drive my car immediately after an oil change?
Yes, you can! Once the oil change is complete, your vehicle is ready to hit the road.
How often should I get an oil change?
It’s generally recommended to get an oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, or about every three months. However, always check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific guidelines.
Can I change my oil myself?
Yes! With the right tools and a bit of know-how, you can change your oil at home. Just remember, safety first!
Final Thoughts
To sum it up, an oil change takes 30 to 45 minutes. However, this timeline can fluctuate based on the shop’s busyness and your car’s make and model. Ultimately, when it comes to caring for your car, timing plays a key role in making sure all maintenance is taken care of – and this includes oil changes.
Being mindful of when you need an oil change can help keep your ride in tip-top shape. Not to mention, if you want to make sure you get that speedy service (or simply don’t want to spend a whole day waiting around), try scheduling your appointment ahead of time or visiting a shop during non-peak hours.
Managing Editor
Christopher is an automotive technical writer. When he’s not at the local autocross event, he can often be found working on one of his cars. Specializes in automotive class action law, industry trends, and automotive maintenance. Email me direct, or learn more about us
