Copyright jalopnik
First off: money. You skip labor costs, shop markups, and upsells –DIYers report saving anywhere from $35 to $75 per change versus going to a shop. Then there's choice. You pick the exact oil grade, brand, and filter you trust. Learning is another big plus, especially for newbies. Changing your own oil builds confidence and gives you insight into your car. You'll also get control and comfort, and your rules at your own time. And while the car is up, you can eyeball other parts — check belts, even glance at brake lines. But time, also, is the obvious con. Even in ideal conditions, plan on 30 to 60 minutes (maybe more if it's your first time). Disposal of used motor oil? That's on you — many communities and parts stores accept it, but it's still an extra chore. You want to do it right the first time but sometimes mistakes happen, like forgetting the gasket, overtightening, or underfilling. One wrong move, and you can have leaks, blown seals, or worse. Plus, doing your own maintenance improperly can void warranty coverage. If you don't already own tools (jack, stands, wrench sets, oil filter tool), you're definitely looking at up-front purchases. Investing ain't cheap. Finally, consider the risks: slippery surfaces, hot oil, and the possibility of a car slipping off the jack stands make DIY oil changes potentially dangerous. So do your homework, double-check every step, and don't rush. The margin for error is thin.
