If you‘re like most drivers, getting your engine oil changed is an essential piece of regular maintenance. And when that familiar oil change light pops up on your dashboard, a low-cost, convenient option like Walmart is an appealing choice for many.
But how much exactly does an oil change cost at your local Walmart Auto Care Center? What oil and services come with their different packages? And how can you maximize value and savings? This detailed guide has the answers on Walmart‘s current oil change prices and services for 2024.
Oil Change Services Offered by Walmart
Walmart Auto Care Centers have a range of oil change packages available to suit your specific vehicle needs:
Pit Crew Oil Change
The Pit Crew oil change is Walmart‘s basic, entry-level conventional oil change service. It includes up to 5 quarts of new oil (most passenger vehicles), a new oil filter, chassis lubrication, and a check on your battery, tire pressure, and fluid levels. Priced at just $19.88, it covers all the essentials.
Standard Oil Change
A step above the Pit Crew service, the Standard oil change includes everything in the basic package but adds more extensive checks of all your vehicle‘s fluid levels – coolant, transmission, brake fluids, and more. They also vacuum and clean the interior. At $29.88, it provides additional value through more thorough maintenance and inspection.
High Mileage Oil Change
As vehicles get older and accumulate more miles, the engine oil needs change. The High Mileage service uses a specially formulated oil designed to address seals and gaskets hardening over time. It provides maximum protection and performance for engines with over 75,000 miles. And it still comes at an affordable $35.88 price point.
Synthetic Blend Oil Change
Synthetic blend oils offer advanced performance, protecting your engine better in extreme temperatures while allowing for longer intervals between changes. Walmart‘s Synthetic Blend service provides up to 5 quarts of synthetic blend motor oil and a new quality filter for $39.88.
Full Synthetic Oil Change
For maximum engine protection, the Full Synthetic service features premium, advanced full synthetic motor oils, a new filter, and all the usual checks and inspections. Priced at $49.88, it‘s the top of the line oil change package Walmart offers.
Not sure which oil change service is right for your vehicle? Walmart‘s certified technicians can look up your vehicle‘s specifications and recommend the right oil type and service level based on your make, model, mileage, and any special needs.
Cost Comparisons on Walmart Oil Changes
How does the pricing on Walmart‘s oil change services stack up against other providers like specialty shops and dealerships? Here‘s a breakdown:
| Provider | Conventional Oil Change | Synthetic Blend Oil Change | Full Synthetic Oil Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walmart | $19.88 | $39.88 | $49.88 |
| Jiffy Lube | $44.99 | $79.99 | $109.99 |
| Firestone | $42.99 | $69.99 | $89.99 |
| Valvoline | $39.99 | $59.99 | $89.99 |
| Honda Dealership | $40 | $50 | $80 |
| Toyota Dealership | $35 | $45 | $65 |
Across the different types of oil changes, from basic to synthetic, Walmart‘s pricing is extremely competitive. In some cases, you may save 50% or more over auto dealers and quick lube chains. The savings can really add up over years of oil changes.
Keep in mind that competitors may occasionally offer discounts or coupons to lower prices closer to Walmart‘s pricing. But in general, Walmart‘s focus on high volume with low margins gives them an edge when it comes to affordable oil changes.
Recommended Oil Change Intervals
In addition to where you get your oil changed, the other key decision is how often to get it done. Every vehicle manufacturer provides oil change interval recommendations in your owner‘s manual based on your driving patterns and engine type.
For many newer vehicles driven normally, the recommended intervals can be 7,500-10,000 miles. But some experts still recommend changing your oil more frequently:
- Conventional oil – Every 3,000-5,000 miles
- Synthetic blend oil – Every 5,000-7,500 miles
- Full synthetic oil – Every 7,500-10,000 miles
Frequent short trips, extreme weather, and hauling heavy loads are all factors that can shorten oil change intervals. Check your owner‘s manual and talk to a Walmart technician about the right timeline for your driving and vehicle.
Walkthrough of the Walmart Oil Change Process
Wondering what the process looks like when you pull into a Walmart Auto Care Center for an oil change? Here‘s a step-by-step overview:
Pull up and park in the designated oil change area, typically near the automotive department entrance.
Check-in at the automated kiosk or with the technician. Provide your name and vehicle information.
Technicians will inspect your vehicle – check tire pressure, fluids, belts, lights, filters, battery, and any other potential issues.
Your vehicle is driven into the service bay, lifted, and the oil drain plug removed to drain out the old motor oil completely.
The oil filter is replaced with a new one. New oil is added up to the proper level based on your vehicle‘s needs.
Technicians will start your vehicle to circulate the new oil and check for any leaks. Additional fluid levels are inspected and topped off.
Interior is vacuumed, washed, and cleaned – included with premium packages.
Vehicle is driven out for final inspection and you‘re good to go! The whole process usually takes 15-30 minutes.
Walmart Techs are trained and certified to deliver quick, quality oil changes. The automated systems allow them to focus on consistent maintenance rather than upsells.
Tips for Saving Money on Walmart Oil Changes
Beyond Walmart‘s already low prices, here are some tips to maximize savings:
Use coupons – Walmart frequently offers $5 or $10 off coupons to drive more oil change traffic. Check online and mailers for coupon codes.
Sign up for Walmart+ – The $98/year Walmart+ membership program includes discounts on automotive services like oil changes.
Buy your own oil and filter – DIY oil changes let you provide your own supplies. But Walmart will charge a $20 fee for labor.
Pair with other services – Save by bundling tire rotations, new wipers blades, or air filter replacement with an oil change.
Ask about sales – Holiday weekends like July 4th often have an oil change sales promotion. Time your next service accordingly.
Use credit card points – Cards like Chase Ultimate Rewards offer statement credits for Walmart purchases.
With some smart planning, you can maximize the already strong value Walmart provides on essential oil change services.
Top Ratings for Walmart Oil Changes
In addition to the savings and convenience, customers give high marks to the quality of service provided at Walmart Auto Care Centers. Some recent reviews on Walmart‘s oil change experience:
"In and out in 20 minutes. My technician Rafael was very friendly and helped explain what services I needed for my SUV. Appreciated the honest advice and quick service!"
"Got my full synthetic oil change done while grabbing groceries. Way cheaper and faster than taking my car to the Honda dealership. No hassle or pushy upsell attempts either."
"I‘ve been going to Walmart for oil changes for 5+ years. Their Pit Crew service keeps my older sedan running smoothly. technicians always take the time to check everything thoroughly and provide great maintenance advice."
Many reviewers comment on the fast, friendly, and affordable service found at Walmart – huge positives for busy families and vehicle owners on a budget.
DIY Oil Changes – The Alternatives to Walmart
Of course, some people prefer to save money by doing their own oil changes at home. This is also an option, if you have the time and equipment.
You‘ll need to purchase your own motor oil, typically 5 quarts for most vehicles, and an oil filter that fits your make and model. Then you‘ll need tools like a jack, jack stands, wrenches, oil drain pan and funnel. With some time and elbow grease, you can handle the oil drain, filter swap, and refill process yourself.
The convenience factor still makes Walmart worthwhile for many people. But a DIY oil change can potentially save you $20-$40 per service depending on supplies and effort. If you change your own oil, just be sure to dispose of the used oil properly and stay on top of regular maintenance intervals.
More Than Just Oil Changes
When servicing your vehicle at a Walmart Auto Care Center, an oil change is just the start. You can also get several other important maintenance tasks and inspections taken care of:
- New wiper blades – $10-$20 for a set of premium blades
- Tire rotation – $10 for tire rotation to extend tread life
- Air filter replacement – $20-$40 for a new engine air filter
- Battery test & replacement – $100+ for a new battery as needed
- Headlight restoration – Removes fog and yellowing from headlight lenses
Bundling these extra services with your oil change can maximize value. Walmart technicians will check and make recommendations on any maintenance that‘s due when inspecting your vehicle.
Walmart Oil Changes – Convenient and Affordable Vehicle Care
Regular oil changes are still one of the best ways to get hundreds of thousands of miles out of your car or truck. And with over 2,500 locations across America, Walmart makes this essential maintenance convenient and affordable.
Their Auto Care Centers have competitive pricing across a range of package levels. And their certified technicians focus on quickly getting you quality service without hassles or pressure.
So next time your vehicle is due for an oil change, check your local Walmart for a fast, friendly experience at a price that fits your budget. Keep your car running smoothly all year long and save money at the same time.
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