Anyone tried doing their own oil change?

[4.6owner]

I've never attempted my own oil changes but just looking for a way to save a little $$$ what with the economy and all.

How difficult is it for someone who is mostly inexperienced to do their own oil changes? I am alright with tools, about average mechanical ability.

For those who do, how much money do you reckon you save in the long run?

 

[STREETS]

Only about 100 posts on this subject. For you- Jiffy Lube.

 

[Gambler]

Check this thread out for information.

 

[Mark_888]

You will need to be able to jack up the car to get underneath it. There are some other threads regarding oil changes you might want to look at.

How much you can save depends on frequency of changes, type of oil you use, and how much you would pay to get someone else to do it (such as dealer). You can get your own quotes on getting someone else to do it.

Oil Filters (cartridge type) cost about $8 from dealer (hard to find after-market versions).

 

[4.6owner]

Thanks for the replies.

 

[GLGar]

You can get a Wix #57250 filter at most auto parts stores for about $6. My dealers OEM filter was over $11. Other than removing the plastic panel under the engine the oil change is about lke any other vehicle. I do my own so I know it's done right. I don't think I could trust a Jiffy Lube or even a dealer to take the time to use the proper torque values, correct amount of oil, replace the plug washer, filter O-ring and all the small bolts in the panel.

 

[Mark_888]

My dealers OEM filter was over $11.

Try another dealer, or ask your dealer for a discount if you buy 4 at one time. Never buy a part without asking for the price first.

 

[GLGar]

After a side by side comparison of the end caps on the OEM Mahle filter and the Wix, even at the same price, I would still use the Wix.

 

[Mark_888]

After a side by side comparison of the end caps on the OEM Mahle filter and the Wix, even at the same price, I would still use the Wix.

According to forum rules, you are required to post pictures to demonstrate your claim.

 

[GLGar]

Sorry but no pics. My original post was to let the OP know that after market filters are readily available at less cost than OEM. He did ask about DIY savings. I prefer the Wix for several reasons but I really don't care what anyone else uses.

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[Mark_888]

Sorry but no pics. My original post was to let the OP know that after market filters are readily available at less cost than OEM. He did ask about DIY savings. I prefer the Wix for several reasons but I really don't care what anyone else uses.

OK, I made up the part about it being "forum rules." But it would be useful to other forum members to see what you mean, so we all don't have to drive to our nearest auto parts store to see for ourselves.

 

[GLGar]

OK, I can't post pictures but the OEM end caps are glued on thin pieces of plastic that deform to seal around the tubes in the housing and cover. Wix uses molded hard caps with internal O-rings that should make a more secure seal as the oil passes through. the filter media. Both surely do an adequate job but in my opinion the Wix is a better design. It is also sold as a NAPA Gold at their stores so it should be easy to look at one when you need a new filter.

 

[Mark_888]

OK, I can't post pictures but the OEM end caps are glued on thin pieces of plastic that deform to seal around the tubes in the housing and cover. Wix uses molded hard caps with internal O-rings that should make a more secure seal as the oil passes through. the filter media. Both surely do an adequate job but in my opinion the Wix is a better design. It is also sold as a NAPA Gold at their stores so it should be easy to look at one when you need a new filter.

Does the Wix also come with the two o-rings for the housing cover that screws into the base that holds the cartridge?

 

[GLGar]

Yes, two O-rings for the 4.6 housing drain and cover plus a new crush washer. I don't know if the #57250 also applies to the 3.8.

 

[robthoke]

I had my dealer do my oil change yesterday. I provided the oil (Royal Purple 5W20 Synthetic) and I was charged $12.51 for the oil filter and $13.35 for labor. Not too bad.

 

[Seattle Genesis]

I bought a service package when I bought the car. All the oil changes I need for the lifetime of the car. No min/max limit. I can get an oil change once a month if I wanted to, but I get one every 3k miles and its logged in my log book and in their systems. So when I go to trade it may count for a few bucks on trade in. At least Im hoping it will.... hahahha