Expert Advice

What should I look for in an oil change shop?

There are dozens of oil change shops in the greater Wilmington area. It’s hard to know which one to choose and how to find a quality oil change shop. The tips below will help you take some of the guesswork out of which shop you should choose.

Tip 1 – Find a shop that offers oil that suits your vehicle and driving style.

For many owners and driving conditions, conventional motor oil is a good fit. However, motor oil is a not a one-size-fits-all product. Higher-end performance vehicles require synthetic motor oils. Plus, drivers who do a great deal of driving in stop-and-go traffic or extreme weather conditions would be better off with a synthetic motor oil. Find an oil change shop that offers a variety of oil options. One is sure to suit your vehicle and driving style.

Tip 2 – Steer clear of oil change shops that force an up-sell you don’t need.

While you want an oil change shop that offers a variety of motor oils, be wary of shops that force an up-sell of an oil you don’t need. If you drive a standard or economy car and drive in uneventful driving conditions, a conventional oil is likely your best fit. Synthetic oils are often more expensive. Don’t let your shop talk you into an up-sell you don’t need.

Tip 3 – Ensure that the filter gets changed at each service.

One way for shops to cut costs on an oil change is to skip replacing the filter. This is a major no-no. The filter catches contaminants that can lead to engine damage. It’s very important to replace the filter during each oil change filter. To be sure sure your oil change shop is replacing the filter, try this simple test: Before taking your car to the shop, use a permanent marker and draw a small line or symbol on the filter. After your oil change, check the filter. If your mark is still there, then your oil change shop did not replace the filter.

Tip 4 – Look for extras or value-add services that may be included in your oil change service.

Find an oil change shop that goes the extra mile for you. Ask about extra services, like topping off your windshield fluid, that may be included in your oil change. A high-quality and highly regarded oil change shop will use these little extras to show you that its employees care about your business and your vehicle.

Premier Oil Change Shop Wilmington NC

At O’Leary’s Automotive Repair, we are committed to matching drivers with the right oil for their vehicles and driving conditions. We offer oil changes and auto service in Wilmington, Leland and Hampstead, with four convenient locations. Be sure to download our oil change coupons to take advantage of our winter special: an oil change and tire rotation starting at $39.99. Please contact us if you’d like to learn more about our oil change packages.