Oil changes
Engine oil and filter changes. Your owner’s manual or the car’s maintenance reminder sets the oil grade and how often.
What this covers
Engine oil keeps moving parts from wearing against each other and carries heat away. It breaks down with use, so it is changed on a schedule.
The right interval depends on the car. Many newer cars have an oil-life monitor that says when a change is due; others list a mileage and time interval in the owner’s manual. Use the grade the manufacturer specifies: the U.S. Department of Energy says the recommended grade can improve gas mileage by 1 to 2 percent.
How the problem is found
If the oil level drops between changes or you see spots where you park, say so when you book. An oil change is a good moment to look for leaks, but tracing a leak to its source is a separate inspection.
An oil pressure warning is different from a change reminder. If the oil pressure light comes on while driving, stop when it is safe and check the level before driving further.
Makes this often comes up on
Oil changes by shop
No shop has confirmed individual services online yet. Everything listed here is on TRUE’s list for all 5 shops; call the shop to confirm before you go.