Synthetic vs conventional oil change cost

Oil types at a glance

Conventional oil is treated with chemical additives to help it meet the requirements set by vehicle manufacturers.

Conventional oil works for many vehicles, but more manufacturers now require synthetic oil, so conventional oil is appropriate only when the manufacturer permits it.

Full synthetic oil is chemically engineered so its molecules are more uniform in shape.

Full synthetic oil is required when a vehicle's manufacturer specifies it, and using conventional oil instead risks engine damage and can void the vehicle's warranty.

Synthetic blend oil is a mixture or blend of synthetic and conventional motor oils.

Synthetic or synthetic blend oil is worth considering in areas with very cold or very hot temperatures.

Why the service price differs

A typical oil change once required five quarts of oil, but modern vehicles can need four quarts to 10 quarts or more, depending on the engine.

A Valvoline Instant Oil Change full-service oil change includes up to 5 quarts of oil.

The oil used must meet the viscosity grade and specification listed in the vehicle's owner manual.

The cost of an oil change also reflects the difficulty of performing the service on a given vehicle.

Jiffy Lube's site shows starting prices only after a customer selects a preferred store and enters vehicle information.

For pricing, Jiffy Lube's site directs customers to contact their local store with their vehicle and preferred oil type.

Choosing the right oil

The vehicle owner's manual specifies the oil type and viscosity a manufacturer recommends.

The vehicle owner's manual also sets the recommended oil change interval.

Using conventional oil instead of the synthetic oil a manufacturer requires risks engine damage and can void the vehicle's warranty.

Using the manufacturer-recommended oil type and viscosity can help extend the time between oil changes.

What each chain lists

Take 5 Oil Change lists conventional, synthetic blend, full synthetic, and diesel oil change options on its service menu.

Valvoline Instant Oil Change lists conventional, synthetic blend, and full synthetic oil change options on its service menu.

Jiffy Lube's site lists conventional, high mileage, synthetic blend, and full synthetic oil as its oil change choices.

Frequently asked questions

Is full synthetic oil better than conventional oil?

Jiffy Lube describes full synthetic oil as performing and protecting better than conventional oil.

The right oil for a given vehicle still follows the manufacturer's specification.

Is synthetic blend worth the extra cost?

Synthetic blend oil is priced and performs between conventional oil and full synthetic oil.

Jiffy Lube describes synthetic blend oil as a middle ground for drivers who want more protection than conventional oil without moving to full synthetic oil.

Why can two oil changes using the same oil type cost different amounts?

The price for the same oil type can vary because the total cost also depends on the amount of oil required and the difficulty of performing the oil change on a given vehicle.

Jiffy Lube's site directs customers to their local store for a price based on their vehicle, so the store sets the final figure.