How Much Does an Oil Change Cost at Walmart in 2024? The Complete Guide
Oil changes are one of the most basic yet critical maintenance services for prolonging your vehicle‘s life. And with over 5,000 locations in the U.S., Walmart is one of the leading providers of quick and affordable oil changes – performing nearly 10 million services per year.
But if it‘s been awhile since your last appointment with your neighborhood Walmart auto shop, you may be wondering: how much is an oil change at Walmart in 2024? What type of oil and filters do they use? And what‘s the service experience like?
As an auto care professional with over 20 years of experience, I‘ve seen Walmart grow into one of the top options for budget-friendly oil changes. Here‘s my complete guide to getting an oil change at Walmart, including prices, services, and expert advice.
Oil Change Prices at Walmart in 2024
Walmart offers several tiers of oil change services to suit the needs and budgets of all drivers. Here are the current starting prices as of January 2023:
| Oil Change Service | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| Pit Crew Oil Change | $24.88 |
| Standard Oil Change | $39.88 |
| High Mileage Oil Change | $49.88 |
| Synthetic Blend Oil Change | $59.88 |
| Full Synthetic Oil Change | $79.88 |
Prices can vary slightly by location. Walmart often runs various specials like $5 off select oil changes or coupons to save you even more.
Compared to other major oil change providers, Walmart has highly competitive pricing:
| Provider | Standard Oil Change Price |
|---|---|
| Jiffy Lube | $64.99 |
| Firestone | $54.99 |
| Meineke | $59.99 |
| Walmart | $39.88 |
So if you‘re looking for the most affordable oil change near you, it‘s tough to beat the everyday low prices at Walmart.
Types of Motor Oil Available
Walmart technicians utilize major brand name motor oils to keep your car running smoothly. Here are some of the top oils available for your oil change:
Quaker State Conventional Oil – Walmart‘s default brand included in basic services. Provides solid protection and performance.
Mobil 1 Synthetic Blend – A mix of conventional and synthetic oil for longer intervals between changes.
Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic – Premium synthetic oil ideal for newer engines. Better protection.
Valvoline High Mileage Oil – Formulated with seal conditioners to prevent leaks in older engines.
They also stock specialized oils like diesel, hybrid, long-life, and high-performance racing oils if required.
The Walmart tech will select the appropriate oil type recommended for your vehicle‘s make, model, and mileage.
Walmart‘s Oil Change Process from Start to Finish
When you arrive for your oil change appointment, here‘s what you can expect:
Vehicle Inspection – A technician will greet you, review your appointment details, and do a walkaround to check your tires, fluids, lights, belts and hoses, leaks, etc.
Oil Drain – Your vehicle is parked over the service pit. The old oil is drained out through the oil plug into a recycling tank.
Filter Replacement – The oil filter is removed and swapped for a new one. The area is cleaned of any spilled oil.
New Oil Fill – Based on your vehicle‘s needs, the correct amount of fresh oil is dispensed through the fill hole.
Final Checks and Reset – Your tech will start the engine to check oil pressure light, inspect for leaks, and reset the oil life monitor.
The entire process takes just 15-20 minutes for conventional oil changes. Synthetic blends may take around 30 minutes.
Additional Auto Services Offered
Beyond just oil changes, many Walmart Auto Care Centers are fully equipped to take care of all your basic maintenance needs, including:
- Tire services – rotation, balance, pressure checks
- Battery testing and replacement
- Wiper blade installation
- Air filter and cabin air filter replacement
- Coolant flushes
- Transmission fluid changes
- Spark plug replacement
- Suspension inspections
They also perform services like tire patching, wheel balance, and tire rotations if you need them. No appointments are required for quick services like wiper blades, saving you time.
Tips from the Experts
When going in for your oil change, here are some tips from ASE-certified mechanics:
Stick within your manufacturer‘s recommended oil change interval. Usually every 5,000-10,000 miles.
Ask for a courtesy vehicle inspection for other potential issues.
Mention any new drips, leaks, noises or performance changes.
Request to see your air filter and old oil filter at time of service.
Consider switching to synthetic oil if you drive extensively or haul heavy loads.
Following these tips will help ensure you get the most out of your Walmart oil change.
Convenience of Walmart Oil Changes
With over 2,500 locations offering oil changes, Walmart makes it convenient to fit an oil change into your schedule.
Many locations are open late nights and weekends. You can also schedule appointments online or just drive in. Reviewers on sites like Yelp often mention the quick, hassle-free experience at their local Walmart Auto Care Center.
The Bottom Line
Walmart provides drivers an easy, affordable way to take care of this essential maintenance task. With oil changes starting under $25 for a basic conventional change, they offer unbeatable value.
Their certified technicians have extensive training and utilize top brands like Quaker State and Pennzoil to give you peace of mind on the road. And with no wait times, you‘ll be in and out in no time.
So next time your vehicle is due for some TLC, consider letting the experts at Walmart Auto Care keep your car running smoothly. Your engine and wallet will thank you!
