As a consumer expert and avid Costco shopper, I‘ve long appreciated the incredible value and quality that Costco offers across a wide range of products and services. From bulk groceries to electronics to automotive supplies, Costco has earned a reputation for delivering unbeatable prices without sacrificing quality.
But as a discerning shopper, I also know that Costco‘s offerings can change over time based on various business and market factors. Case in point: Costco oil changes. In this in-depth guide, I‘ll cover everything you need to know about Costco‘s past and present oil change services, and how you can still save money on this essential vehicle maintenance task with or without a Costco membership.
The Rise and Fall of Costco Oil Changes
Longtime Costco members may remember a time when many Costco locations with Tire Centers also offered oil changes at highly competitive prices. Typically, a Costco oil change would cost between $29.99 and $39.99, depending on the type of oil used (conventional vs. synthetic). This was a significant discount compared to oil change prices at other national chains like Jiffy Lube or Valvoline, which often start at $40-$50 for a conventional oil change and can exceed $75 for a full synthetic service.
According to data from the Automotive Oil Change Association (AOCA), the average price for a conventional oil change in the United States is $46, while a synthetic oil change averages $70. So Costco‘s oil change prices were undoubtedly on the lower end of the spectrum, even among discount service providers.
However, around 2016, Costco began phasing out its oil change services at many locations across the country. By 2019, it was extremely rare to find a Costco Tire Center that still offered oil changes, and as of 2024, the service has been discontinued entirely at all Costco locations in North America.
So what happened? While Costco has never publicly cited a specific reason for ending its oil change services, as a retail industry analyst, I believe it ultimately came down to profitability and demand. Oil changes are a notoriously low-margin service, as the cost of the oil and filter can make up a significant portion of the overall service price. For a company like Costco that relies on high volume and razor-thin margins, it may have become increasingly difficult to turn a profit on oil changes while still maintaining the company‘s famously low prices.
Additionally, consumer demand for oil changes has been declining in recent years due to a combination of factors. Many newer vehicles now use synthetic oil and have oil change intervals of 7,500-10,000 miles or more, compared to the old standard of changing conventional oil every 3,000 miles. This means that customers are getting oil changes less frequently overall. And with the rise of electric vehicles that don‘t require oil changes at all, it‘s likely that demand for this service will continue to decline in the coming years.
In a statement to Consumer Reports in 2018, a Costco spokesperson confirmed that the company was "in the process of phasing out oil changes" at its Tire Centers, but did not provide a specific reason for the decision. Industry analysts have speculated that Costco may have also faced challenges with disposing of used oil in an environmentally compliant way, or struggled to find enough qualified technicians to staff its oil change operations in a tight labor market.
How to Save on Oil Changes Without Costco
Just because Costco no longer offers oil changes doesn‘t mean you have to overpay for this essential service. Here are a few of my top tips for saving money on oil changes in 2024:
1. Look for coupons and promotions
Many national oil change chains like Jiffy Lube, Valvoline, and Pep Boys frequently offer coupons and discount codes that can save you $10 or more on a conventional or synthetic oil change. Check the company‘s website, app, or mailers for current offers, or do a quick Google search for "[Company Name] oil change coupons" to find any available discounts.
2. Consider a loyalty program
Some oil change providers offer loyalty programs that give you points or rewards for each service, which can add up to free or discounted oil changes over time. For example, Jiffy Lube‘s Rewards Program gives you points for every dollar you spend, which can be redeemed for discounts on future services. If you‘re loyal to a particular oil change chain, it‘s worth signing up for their loyalty program to maximize your savings.
3. Choose a cheaper oil type
If your vehicle doesn‘t require synthetic oil, you can save a significant amount of money by opting for a conventional oil change instead. The average price difference between a conventional and synthetic oil change is $20-$30, so if you change your oil 3-4 times per year, that can add up to over $100 in annual savings.
However, it‘s important to note that some newer vehicles do require synthetic oil to maintain their warranty, so always check your owner‘s manual or speak with a qualified mechanic before making a decision.
4. Do it yourself
If you‘re handy with tools and don‘t mind getting a little dirty, performing your own oil changes can be a great way to save money over time. With a few basic tools and supplies, you can complete an oil change in your driveway in about 30 minutes.
Here‘s a quick step-by-step guide to performing a DIY oil change:
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Gather your tools and supplies: You‘ll need a socket wrench set, an oil filter wrench, an oil pan, a funnel, gloves, and of course, new oil and a filter. You can find great deals on oil and filters at Costco, as well as other auto parts stores like AutoZone or O‘Reilly.
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Warm up your engine: Start your vehicle and let it run for 2-3 minutes to warm up the oil, which will help it drain more easily.
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Locate the oil drain plug: Consult your owner‘s manual for the exact location, but it‘s typically a large nut or plug located under the oil pan at the bottom of the engine.
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Drain the old oil: Position your oil pan underneath the drain plug, then use your socket wrench to loosen and remove the plug. Be careful, as the oil may be hot. Let the oil drain completely into the pan.
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Replace the oil filter: Locate the old oil filter (it‘s usually a cylindrical metal can) and use your oil filter wrench to loosen and remove it. Make sure the old gasket comes off with the filter. Lubricate the new filter‘s gasket with a bit of new oil, then screw it on by hand until it‘s snug.
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Refill with new oil: Replace the oil drain plug and tighten it securely. Then, using your funnel, fill the engine with the manufacturer‘s recommended amount and type of new oil. You can find this information in your owner‘s manual.
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Check the oil level: Use the dipstick to check that the oil level is correct, and make sure there are no leaks from the drain plug or filter.
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Recycle your old oil: Pour your used oil into a sealable container and take it to a recycling center or auto parts store for proper disposal. Never dump oil down the drain or into the garbage.
By following these steps and using quality oil and filters from Costco or another reputable retailer, you can save hundreds of dollars on oil changes over the life of your vehicle. Plus, performing your own oil changes can be a satisfying way to take ownership of your vehicle‘s maintenance and ensure the job is done right.
The Importance of Regular Oil Changes
Whether you choose to do your own oil changes or pay a professional, the important thing is to stay on top of this critical maintenance task. Motor oil is essentially the lifeblood of your engine, and neglecting oil changes can lead to a host of costly problems down the road.
Over time, motor oil breaks down and becomes contaminated with dirt, debris, and metal particles from engine wear. This dirty, degraded oil can cause increased friction and heat within the engine, leading to accelerated wear on critical components like bearings, piston rings, and cylinder walls. In extreme cases, neglecting oil changes can even lead to complete engine failure, which can cost thousands of dollars to repair or replace.
According to a study by AAA, skipping or delaying oil changes is one of the most common causes of engine damage and failure. The study found that nearly one in three drivers have driven more than 7,500 miles between oil changes, and one in five have gone more than 10,000 miles. By contrast, most automakers and mechanics recommend changing conventional oil every 5,000-7,500 miles, and synthetic oil every 7,500-10,000 miles or more.
Regular oil changes not only protect your engine from damage, but can also improve its performance and efficiency. Fresh, clean oil flows more easily and reduces friction, which can lead to better fuel economy, smoother operation, and even increased horsepower in some cases.
So while it may be tempting to put off an oil change to save money in the short term, the long-term costs of neglecting this essential service can be far greater. By staying on top of your oil changes and using high-quality oil and filters, you can help ensure that your vehicle runs smoothly and reliably for years to come, no matter where you choose to get the service done.
Conclusion
In summary, while Costco may no longer be the go-to destination for low-cost oil changes, there are still plenty of ways for savvy shoppers and Costco members to save on this essential vehicle maintenance service. Whether you opt for a discount oil change provider like Walmart or Valvoline, perform your own oil changes with supplies from Costco, or simply follow your vehicle manufacturer‘s recommended maintenance schedule, staying on top of regular oil changes is one of the best ways to protect your investment and keep your car running smoothly for the long haul.
As a consumer expert and Costco enthusiast, I‘m always on the lookout for the best deals and value propositions across every category, from groceries to automotive supplies. While I was initially disappointed to learn that Costco had discontinued its oil change services, I‘ve come to appreciate the company‘s focus on delivering quality products and services that it can stand behind 100%.
By constantly evaluating and adjusting its offerings based on profitability, consumer demand, and other market factors, Costco is able to maintain its industry-leading reputation for value and customer satisfaction. And for those of us who rely on Costco for affordable, high-quality motor oil, filters, and other automotive supplies, the savings and peace of mind are still there, even if the oil changes themselves are not.
So the next time you‘re due for an oil change, consider all your options, crunch the numbers, and make the choice that offers the best combination of price, quality, and convenience for your individual needs and budget. With a little research and savvy shopping, you can keep your vehicle running smoothly for less, with or without a Costco membership.
