Oil changes are a routine part of vehicle maintenance, and with the possibility of tariffs, your annual visit could cost more than normal.
Even though oil and labor costs are predicted to stay steady, car parts are likely to increase. The oil filter, typically costing between $6 and 20 dollars, is changed with every visit.
“A 25 – 30% increase on that is not going to have a great deal of impact as far as the overall cost of the oil change,” said Blackwell Automotive Owner Richmond Blackwell.
This is a small cost increase, but car owners could see multiple increases begin to add up.
“Maybe some of the other filters or other things that may be supplementary to an oil change may see a price increase,” said Blackwell.
Blackwell Automotive Owner Richmond Blackwell started his business with his father in 2004. He says auto industry prices are very uncertain right now.
“The tariffs have been put off twice already, so maybe that will keep prices down, but some of the parts are made in Mexico and Canada. A lot of parts are made in China, or parts of the parts are made there. So, we really don’t know what the impact is,” said Blackwell.
This uncertainty is concerning for auto industry workers, especially since Blackwell says the cost of parts has quickly increased since 20-20.
“Businesses right now are just trying to deal with absorbing a lot of that cost, which a lot of us have done over the past five years,” said Blackwell.
One solution to save money is learning how to do it yourself. You can purchase the oil, oil filter, and something to catch the used oil. Most oil change places list the type of oil and how much theyare used on the receipt.This is estimated to save you anywhere between $30 and 70 dollars.
It’s unlawful to dispose of oil where it may harm the environment, and failing to do so could land you a misdemeanor charge. For more information on used oil disposal, call 1-800-287-9013.
No matter if you choose to learn some mechanic skills or dig more into your wallet, Blackwell says it is important to keep up with routine maintenance to keep your car running well.
