How to not get ripoff when change oil at a shop? (alarm, tires)

[technow]

I live in apartment so I can't change the oil because my apartment prohibits working on cars in the parking lot. I see many videos about oil change scams. Can somebody recommend me a trustworthy oil change service in San Jose, please?

[Creamer1]

Originally Posted by technow

I live in apartment so I can't change the oil because my apartment prohibits working on cars in the parking lot. I see many videos about oil change scams. Can somebody recommend me a trustworthy oil change service in San Jose, please?

Oil drain pan, ramps, and work quickly.

[easy62]

Originally Posted by Creamer1

Oil drain pan, ramps, and work quickly.

I take it to the dealer because oil changes at the dealership are not expensive like they use to be i get mine changed for $35 and i don’t have to crawl on the ground and then dent rid of the old oil. I changed my own oil when i was younger but now i i let dealer do it while i have a free coffee and donut waiting. Many dealers have express oil change service.

[kwong7]

Why not do the most San Jose thing and just search Yelp!. Look out for any alarmingly bad reviews. What year, make, and model do you own? If standard conventional oil is allowed for the car, I would just take it to a Valvoline instant oil change center. You can look for a coupon in the mail or grab one for their website. Expect to spend $40 for your average car. You can be in and out in less than 20 minutes without every leaving the driver seat of your car.

I'm with Easy62 on this. I still change the oil to my Duramax (don't need ramps), and my TDI can do a top-side oil change. Otherwise, it's a pain to crawl underneath modern cars these days and then deal with all the clips for the stupid underbody cowls. Much easier to take it to a pro with a lift.

[tramp]

I get my oil changes at the dealership. It is $39 and they rotate your tires if needed for free. And to top is off, every third oil change is free. You also get a ticket for a free car wash at their new touchless car wash.

[cebuan]

Stand there and watch. Refuse to authorize any product or service other than an oil change.

If they suggest anything else, politely tell them you will have your mechanic check it out.

[somebodyfromnc]

I take mine to the dealer, but I stand by the window and watch them like a hawk.

[antinimby]

Check the oil dipstick afterward. The oil should be clear, not brown.

[miu]

If using a quick oil change place, bring along your own factory OEM filter and crush washer. Buy them ahead of time from a dealership or online.

[EckyX]

Get a Fumoto valve. I can literally kick and oil catch under my car, reach behind the engine and open the valve. The filter is a little harder to reach but the whole thing can be done without ramp or jack, in a fraction the time.