Oil change cost
The average oil change costs $160 – $188 at a repair shop, before taxes and fees. Parts run about $101 – $103 and labor about $58 – $86. That is a full-service shop price with synthetic oil. Quick-lube chains and conventional oil usually cost less, and many dealers run coupons.
Quick answer
$160 – $188parts and labor
Most drivers pay $160 – $188. On popular models the estimate ranges from $130 to $212, depending on the vehicle.
Average oil change cost
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Parts | $101 – $103 |
| Labor | $58 – $86 |
| Total (national average) | $160 – $188 |
Before taxes and fees. Source: RepairPal national estimate, September 2026.
- Labor$58–$8641%
- Parts$101–$10359%
Share of a typical repair bill, using the middle of each range.
Cost by vehicle
| Vehicle | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Toyota Camry | $130 – $162 |
| Ford F-150 | $183 – $212 |
RepairPal estimates for recent model years; your year, engine and trim can change the price.
What the job involves
An oil change drains the old engine oil, replaces the oil filter and refills with the grade your engine requires. Most shops also top off fluids, check tire pressure and do a quick inspection.
Warning signs
- Your oil life monitor or sticker says it's due
- Oil looks dark and gritty on the dipstick
- Oil pressure or maintenance light
- Engine noise louder than usual
What changes the price
- Oil type and capacity. Full synthetic and engines that hold 6 to 8 quarts cost more than conventional oil in a small engine.
- Your vehicle. Parts for trucks, European and luxury models usually cost more, and on some engines the mechanic has to remove other parts first, which adds labor hours.
- Where you go. Dealers often charge 25% or more above independent shops. Most shops bill about $120 to $159 an hour (AAA, citing a 2025 PartsTech survey).
- The parts. OEM (factory) parts cost more than aftermarket or remanufactured parts. Ask which ones the estimate uses and what warranty comes with them.
- Extras. Related parts found during the job, fluids, shop supply fees and sales tax are not included in these averages.
How to pay less
- Follow the oil life monitor or owner's manual; many modern cars go 5,000 to 10,000 miles between changes.
- Use the exact oil grade and specification your engine needs, especially for turbocharged engines.
- Compare prices; oil changes are a common loss leader with coupons.
How to get a fair estimate
- Ask for a written estimate that lists parts, labor hours and the shop’s hourly rate before any work starts.
- Ask whether the quote uses OEM, aftermarket or remanufactured parts, and what warranty comes with the parts and the labor.
- Get a second quote for any repair over a few hundred dollars. Independent shops often charge less per hour than dealers.
- Ask the shop to show you the old part or the reading that proves it failed, and to call you before doing extra work.
- Check for recalls and warranty coverage first: many powertrain, emissions and hybrid parts carry longer factory warranties.
Frequently asked questions
How much does oil change cost?
About $160 to $188 on average at a repair shop, including $101 to $103 for parts and $58 to $86 for labor, before taxes and fees.
How often should I change my oil?
Follow your owner's manual or oil life monitor. Many newer cars on synthetic oil go 5,000 to 10,000 miles; older cars and severe driving need shorter intervals.
Sources
Prices are national averages and typical ranges from published cost data. Your price depends on your vehicle, location, parts and shop, so get a written estimate. Car Repair Atlas is not a repair shop; read our disclaimer.