Other motorists will simply take it to one of those convenient 15 minute chains that specialize in catering to don't like to change oil. It's clean, it's fast and for the most part, it's professionally handled. It usually costs around $30 but sometimes you can touch a special like I did and pay $19.95. Some people in life like to get their hands dirty, and others just like to spend money. If you make the decision to change oil yourself in your vehicle, be prepared to get dirty, greasy and wear a little oil. You will get your tools dirty and will sweat in a hot garage for about half an hour.
Other motorists will simply take it to one of those convenient 15 minute chains that specialize in catering to don't like to change oil. It's clean, it's fast and for the most part, it's professionally handled. It usually costs around $30 but sometimes you can touch a special like I did and pay $19.95.
If you are seeing private mechanic it's a good idea to know his qualifications. Sometimes if you pay a mechanic to change oil he will do the job for a fair price,but then later you find out there's an oil leak. Oil leak if you're lucky! I know one individual that had shoddy work then which led to major mechanical failure.
When hiring a mechanic, make sure good communication is established, a set price including labor, parts and any extra services, and that the mechanic is reliable and respected in the community. Does he have many satisfied customers? You can usually tell this volume of work he's currently doing.
Along with the worry of hiring a good mechanic, the $30 charge is simply too much for some drivers and they decide to change oil in their vehicle for free, with just a little bit of effort and one spent afternoon. If in fact you to decide to do it yourself you can expect to save a few dollars and you will have the satisfaction of learning a new skill.
There are other issues to consider when you decide to change oil in your car yourself. Are you equipped with the proper tools? Do you actually know what you're doing? While you can learn how to change oil over the Internet, to do it properly takes study and practice. Don't skimp on $30 if it means sending someone unqualified to do a professional's job. Don't make your car so for this because you're looking to save a few dollars. Realize that in the end it could cost you a whole lot more if it's not done right.
Another thing to think about is proper oil disposal. The safest way to dispose of your oil is to keep it properly contained and find a local shop to take it off your hands. The wrong way to do it is to pour it down a sewer or just throw it in the trash can. The EPA can give out large fines for improper oil disposal.
Would you like to know how to change oil yourself? Maybe you can find a mechanic friend that will show you or take a shop class at a local community college. While simple instructions can be found online, it's a procedure you really have to understand and perform correctly if you want your car to run an optimal order.
