Contrary to popular belief, an oil change is not something just anyone can do. At least, it’s not something just anyone can do well. Often, vehicle owners are more focused on getting an inexpensive oil change, rather than one of good quality. A quick Internet search for an ‘oil change near me’ will produce hundreds of results for quick lube shops. While the swift in and out service these types of shops provide may be appealing to those with busy schedules, you may be better off spending a little extra time and money taking your car elsewhere.
What’s Wrong with Quick Lube Shops?
Usually, quick lubes only do one thing – change oil. While this may be just the maintenance you need, there should be more to an oil change than simply flushing and replacing fluid. The filter should be changed as well, and your car should be inspected from top to bottom for other possible concerns. These are services most quick lube shops won’t perform. To ensure your car is in good working order, bring it in to a full service auto repair shop instead. A complete automotive service center will be able to not only provide a better quality oil and filter change, but will give your car a thorough once over, checking hoses and belts, tires, brakes, suspension and more.
Fast Service is Not Always Good Service
If a quick lube shops offers oil changes in a short amount of time, it could mean they employ inexperienced technicians who provide low quality maintenance. The staff may not have any formal training in the car mechanic field, making them underqualified to determine or even spot anything that might be wrong with your vehicle.
With the kind of assembly line service quick lubes provide, mistakes are more likely to be made and important details forgotten. These missteps could lead to frustration on your part and even incur engine damage, which could cost you more on major repairs in the long run. The main priority at quick lube shops is to change oil and change oil fast, when it should be giving your vehicle the attention it deserves.
You would probably never go to a hair salon that employs staff who has never held a pair of scissors before or make an appointment with a doctor who never went to medical school. A car is a complicated machine and requires the time, precision and specialized training creating a new hairstyle or treating the flu does.
With a little research, it’s simple to find a complete automotive service center you trust to not only perform competent services, but to give the proper care and consideration to you and your vehicle. By developing a relationship with the mechanics at your auto repair shop, you’ll know the level and quality of service you can expect each time you bring your car in.
Your car is a valuable investment you want to take care of properly so it will last you many years to come. Don’t hedge your bets getting a cheap and quick oil change at a quick lube shop. Choose a repair shop you feel comfortable with that listens to your concerns and meets all your maintenance and repair needs.
