cost of an oil change - is this USUAL?

[jthom]

I just phoned around to get a few quotes on doing an oil change and I just want to verify a couple of things with more experienced owners so I know I'm not getting screwed.

1) Is it common for an oil/filter change on a 93 L300 to cost $134.17 ?

2) Is it true that the oil filter needs to be changed every time the oil is changed?


Thanks!

[Mr. Flibble]

$134?

No, that is WAY too high!

Somewhere in the area of $30 is more reasonable.

You don't have to change the oil filter with each change, it is not a requirement. However, it is a good idea and cheap insurance. I have not changed my filter on my L400 when I was in the US and an appropriate filter was not available. (I now keep 2 filters in my Deli at all times).

[jthom]

$30? Really? Doesn't the cost of 6.5 L of oil and a new filter exceed this alone? And then there's labour.

[deli1733]

Buy a big jug of diesel oil, a bunch of filters and do it yourself. If you cant then I think kal tire charges like 15 dollars to do it if you bring filter and oil.

[nxski]

The filter costs about $30 the oil costs more than that. $80 is pretty typical for regular 15W40 at a shop. $130 might be the price for full synthetic!?

[jessef]

15w40 or 5w40 (for winter) with an oil filter and change will usually run around $60-120 depending on the price of the oil/filter.

[jthom]

Thanks everyone.

If I get my own filter to reduce the cost, which filter do you recommend?

And will any 5w40 do?

[sigurross]

Yeah, that is way too high. Who in Victoria is charging you that if you don't mind me asking?

I use NAPA 1067 or WIX 51067 filters on mine. The NAPA's are just re-branded WIX filters so either is fine. And yes, in my opinion the filter does have to be changed every time. It isn't a huge expense in time or money and it is dirt easy to install. Cover your alternator with a shop rag though! You'll know why when you start unscrewing it.

If you need a hand let me know, I'm in ESQ probably not far from you. Good luck.

[Mr. Flibble]

If you are looking for a winter/synthetic oil then the cost will go up. Some Rotella is nice, but it does cost more. I don't run expensive oil in the summer time, so it is usually around $30 with my own filter supplied, sometimes even less at a jiffy lube style place.

As the quality of oil goes up (synthetic or semi-synthetic) expect it to cost more. Since I change my oil every 5000 km, I prefer not to buy expensive oil and just stick to my change intervals.