Wondering what to ask your mechanic when you get an oil change? It’s tempting to assume that all oil changes are equal, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.
Asking a few quick questions before you book in ensures you’re getting the service best suited to your vehicle, from a qualified mechanic who knows what they’re doing.
Meanwhile, a few follow-up questions after you collect your car could identify potential issues and help you stay on top of your maintenance schedule.
Here we’ll go over 10 questions to ask your mechanic before and after you get an oil change, to prevent future problems and help you get the best value for money.
Questions to ask your mechanic before an oil change
1. What oil and filter are you using?
This one seems obvious, but so many people neglect to find out exactly what oil and filter their mechanic uses. You can check your vehicle’s owner's manual to see if they are using the correct type or a comparable alternative.
Ask about the brands of oils they use, or even request a specific brand to be sure of quality and high-performance engine oil.
2. Can synthetic oil be used in my car?
Generally, synthetic oils can be used in vehicles that typically use mineral oil provided they meet the oil requirements, and may offer improved fuel economy, improved performance, and better protection from extreme temperatures. If you do plan to switch, discuss the transition with your technician. Gradual transition is not required for switching from mineral to synthetic.
3. Are there any additional services recommended during this oil change?
Be wary of any unnecessary upsells at this stage. Most mechanics will perform a range of basic safety checks during your oil change, but they may also recommend additional services such as tyre rotation, air filter replacements, and other fluid top-ups. Consider when these items were last checked on your vehicle before committing to any add-ons.
4. How long should the oil change take?
An oil change can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on any add-on services and the mechanic’s speed and availability. Be sure to get a rough timing estimate to help you manage your day.
5. Do you offer a warranty on the service or parts?
Some mechanics offer a warranty on the oil and filter used during an oil change. If this is the case, find out exactly what it covers, and for how long.
Questions to ask your mechanic after an oil change
1. Did you notice anything else during the oil change that I should be aware of?
A decent mechanic will always flag any issues or potential problems they notice when performing your oil change. However, it can’t hurt to double-check in case something slipped their mind. This could be something minor or something that could potentially lead to issues later.
2. Can I see the used oil and filter?
A trustworthy mechanic will have no problem showing you the used oil and filter. Used oil can help you understand the condition of your engine and check for signs of contamination, coolant leaks, or overuse. Your mechanic will be able to help you identify these issues in the leftover fluid and filter.
3. When should I get my next oil change?
While you can always follow general guidelines about when to check your engine oil, it's important to consider the manufacturer’s recommendations as well as your mechanic’s advice. They will be able to recommend an oil change schedule that takes into account your specific vehicle and driving habits.
4. Are there any other upcoming maintenance services I should schedule?
During an oil change, your mechanic will likely check for any additional maintenance services required, such as tyre rotations, brake checks and fluid flushes. Ask for their recommendations, but also consult your vehicle manual to ensure their advice corresponds with the general best practices.
5. I've been noticing [strange noise, performance issues, etc] do you have any idea what might be causing it?
This is a question that should also be asked before your oil change so your mechanic can keep an eye out for it while they perform the service. Afterwards, they will hopefully be able to offer their initial thoughts and recommend further diagnostics or repairs as necessary.
Simply asking a few of these constructive questions before and after an oil change can help you choose the right mechanic for the job, ensure the quality of your service, and even diagnose potential problems with your vehicle.