One of the most important things about owning a vehicle is knowing how to properly care for and maintain it. This includes regular engine checks and oil changes. However, the quality of the products you put into your vehicle is just as important as regular servicing. Due to the poor reputation of many commercial oil change businesses, many drivers are looking for reliable and affordable alternatives. With Costco’s reputation for quality and customer service, you may be wondering, does Costco do oil changes?
So, Can You Go to Costco for Your Oil Changes?
No. Costco does not do oil changes.
The only automotive service that Costco still performs in its warehouses is tire repair and replacement. While you can still purchase batteries and other accessories, they no longer offer installation or related services. This applies to Costco stores across the United States and Canada.
While there has been a lot of misinformation and confusion on the topic, it seems that these services have officially been removed for Costco customers.
Why Won’t Costco Change Your Oil?
While the exact reason hasn’t been addressed, many speculate why Costco no longer offers oil changes. Here are some of the most likely reasons they have stopped offering these services.
1. Oil changes weren’t profitable.
Costco operates as a loss leader, utilizing the marketing strategy of selling a certain item below market value to attract customers. Once they are in the store, people tend to buy more items with higher profit margins. This stimulates higher revenue, justifying the low cost of the initial item.
Oil changes are often used as part of this strategy. The service offers low to no profit. It is usually added as an additional service to keep customer loyalty, especially when they have paid for more expensive services. However, Costco’s limited automotive services don’t play well into this strategy.
2. You don’t get great automotive service from warehouse stores.
Costco’s business model is designed around providing bulk goods, not highly personalized services. As a result, Costco’s oil change services have disappointed many consumers. Online searches reveal several negative reviews about the quality of their staff and services.
For example, many customers have reported that the service technicians did not fill the engine oil to capacity. Even those with a rudimentary understanding of combustion engines know that driving without enough oil can damage or seize the engine.
Furthermore, certified mechanics have also reported mistakes after working on vehicles that had oil changes from Costco. In this video, one even reported that he had noticed the filters had not been changed at the recommended mileage. These issues can lead to costly repairs down the line.
3. Costco Tire Centers have had poor reviews from Consumer Affairs.
Another likely reason that Costco doesn’t do oil changes anymore is the mixed reputation of Costco’s automotive service centers. In the past, oil changes were usually done in Costco Tire Centers. However, ConsumerAffairs.com only gives Costco Tire Centers 1 out of 5 stars. This statistic is very concerning, especially since it is based on hundreds of reviews.
The low rating is largely due to customers’ complaints about scheduling, poor tire quality, poor quality service, and lack of staff expertise. But a brief look at the long list of bad reviews will tell you that you would be better off going somewhere else.
4. Their staff lack the necessary expertise.
As previously mentioned, several customers complained about the poor quality of the services they received from Costco. Based on feedback from industry professionals, this is most likely due to untrained staff and unqualified technicians.
Although it may be tempting to accept cheap services, you should trust your vehicle maintenance to certified professionals.
5. The liability outweighs the profits.
Ultimately, companies have to decide whether the discount services they provide are worth the investment. However, if you have several customers complaining about your services and leaving poor reviews, it’s bad for business.
Additionally, mistakes in automotive maintenance can also be very costly. If there is significant damage due to negligence or improper training, it becomes a liability. In the end, the potential liability claims far outweigh the financial gains.
Where Should You Go Instead?
So, Costco is no longer an option for oil changes. Therefore, you’ll need to come up with alternatives. The good news is that your Costco membership can get you a 15% discount with eligible partners. If there aren’t any in your area, here are three other options to consider:
Go to a commercial oil change business. Firestone, Pep Boys, and Jiffy Lube are businesses that operate in this market. The advantage of a commercial oil change business is they are typically cheaper than dealerships. However, we do not recommend Jiffy Lube. ConsumerAffairs.com lists over 800 complaints, with 42% of reviews giving them a rating of 1 star.
Go to a dealership. Dealerships are typically the most expensive and time-consuming option for oil changes. However, with increasing automotive computerization, it is more difficult for independent mechanics to handle routine vital fluid changes for newer cars. Dealers are more likely to have up-to-date equipment, necessary scanning tools, and trained personnel. If you do go to a dealer, ask if they price match or accept competitors’ coupons.
Do it yourself. Commercial oil change places and dealerships are often under pressure to sell consumers unneeded parts and services. If you know how, changing your own oil may be the cheapest bet. Simply go to a discounter like Walmart or Amazon and buy the oil you need. Then, block out the time in your schedule to make the oil change happen.
Although Costco is no longer an option, regular oil changes and vehicle maintenance are crucial for your vehicle. So when you see the maintenance lights turn on, don’t wait too long before taking care of it.
Read More
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Oil Change Prices: Is DIY Cheaper Than Going to a Shop?
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