Changing your own oil might seem like a great way to save money. It’s a straightforward job, right? A wrench, a jack, some fresh oil—and you’re all set. But the reality for many modern car owners is a little different. With new vehicle designs, tighter engine compartments, and specific oil requirements, doing it yourself isn’t always as convenient or cost-effective as it once was.
If you’re debating between tackling your next oil change in the driveway or bringing it to a professional shop, here are five reasons why the at-home option might not be worth it.
1. The Tools and Setup Can Be More Trouble Than You Think
Unless you already have all the tools you need—like a jack and stands, an oil filter wrench, and a drain pan—changing your oil at home means spending money upfront. And it’s not just about buying tools. You’ll also need a safe, flat workspace where you can lift the car and get underneath it comfortably.
On many modern vehicles, plastic underbody panels have to be removed just to access the drain plug or oil filter. Without the right tools, this can quickly turn into a frustrating job that takes hours instead of minutes.
2. Disposal Isn’t Always Convenient
Used motor oil is considered hazardous waste and has to be disposed of properly. That means collecting it in a sealed container and taking it to a designated recycling facility or auto parts store that accepts oil.
Spilling even a small amount on your driveway or lawn can leave behind long-lasting stains and create an environmental mess. And if you don’t dispose of it correctly, you could face fines—or worse, damage to local waterways. For many drivers, that alone is reason enough to let a shop handle it.
3. You Might Miss Other Maintenance Needs
An oil change isn’t just about replacing old fluid. When you bring your car to a professional shop, the technician typically checks other vital systems—like fluid levels, belts and hoses, brake condition, and tire wear. These quick visual inspections help catch small problems before they turn into costly repairs.
When you’re doing the job yourself, these checks are easy to overlook—especially if you’re focused on getting in and out quickly. Over time, missed issues can lead to bigger headaches and unexpected repair bills.
4. It’s Easy to Make a Costly Mistake
Pouring in the wrong type of oil, forgetting to reinstall the drain plug, or using the wrong oil filter can all cause serious problems. Some newer vehicles require specific oil weights or synthetic blends to protect sensitive engine components. Skipping even one step—like not tightening the filter enough—can result in leaks, low oil pressure, or engine damage.
Even experienced DIYers occasionally slip up, and with today’s tighter engine tolerances, mistakes are harder to recover from. Having the job done by a trained professional reduces the risk of something going wrong.
5. Time Is Money—And You Could Save Both
What might seem like a 30-minute task can easily stretch into an afternoon if you hit a snag. Stripped drain plugs, stuck filters, or spilled oil all add time and frustration. Plus, after everything’s done, you still have to clean up, recycle the used oil, and maybe even wash your clothes.
Most professional oil changes include fluid top-offs, tire pressure checks, and a maintenance reset—all in a fraction of the time it takes to do it yourself. For many drivers, the convenience of driving in and being done in under an hour is worth far more than the few dollars saved.
DS Auto Experts – Professional Oil Service in Visalia, CA
At DS Auto Experts in Visalia, CA, we make oil changes quick, clean, and reliable. Our team uses the right oil and filters for your specific vehicle, and we’ll check over other key systems to make sure you’re good to go. Save yourself the mess, the stress, and the time—schedule your next oil service with us today.