How Long Does an Oil Change Take?

No one wakes up excited to get an oil change. It's not glamorous. There are no balloons. There are no cheering crowds. But it's one of the most important things you can do for your car, and fortunately, it's also one of the quickest.

We are all about keeping things simple, straightforward, and stress-free here. That's why we're pulling back the curtain on the oil change process. We want you to know how long it takes, why it matters more than you might think, and how to know when it's time for your next one.

So, let's answer the question: how long does an oil change take?

The Quick Answer: 15 to 30 Minutes

If you've got about a half hour, you've got time for an oil change. Most oil changes at our shop take around 15 to 30 minutes, just enough time to catch up on emails or scroll through your feed. You can even catch up on some emails in our waiting area.

We've refined the process to be both efficient and thorough without rushing.

Now, let's walk through what happens during those 30 minutes.

What Happens During an Oil Change?

Think of an oil change as a mini health checkup for your car. Sure, the main goal is to swap out the old oil for fresh, but we also use this time to check on a few other basics that help keep your vehicle safe and roadworthy.

Here's what you can expect when you roll into Horizon Auto Center for an oil change:

1. Vehicle Inspection

We begin with a quick but thorough examination of your vehicle. We're checking for leaks, unusual smells, worn-out wipers, or any other issues that might require attention. If anything looks off, we'll show you photos or videos from our Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI) system.

2. Draining the Old Oil

Once the car is lifted, our team carefully removes the drain plug, allowing the old oil to flow out. It's a messy business if done wrong, but we've got it down to a fine art. This step clears out the sludge, gunk, and debris your engine doesn't need dragging it down.

3. Replacing the Oil Filter

The oil filter is your engine's bodyguard. It catches all the junk that would otherwise cycle through and cause wear and tear. We replace it with a clean, grade-A filter every time because your car deserves more than just a top-off; it deserves a fresh start.

4. Adding New Oil

With the old stuff gone, we pour in the new oil, matched specifically to your car's needs. We don't do one-size-fits-all. Whether you need synthetic, conventional, or a blend, we ensure the type and amount of oil are just right.

5. Final Checks and Top-Offs

Before you drive off, we double-check everything. Oil levels? Good.

No leaks? Clear. We might also check other fluids, inspect your brakes and tires, and let you know if anything else appears to need attention soon.

It's all part of giving you that good feeling when you leave our shop.

Why Oil Changes Matter More Than You Think

We know it's easy to postpone an oil change. Life gets busy, and that sticker on your windshield gets ignored. Before you know it, your engine's been running on what's molasses.

But here's the thing: skipping your oil change can cause severe damage to your engine. We're talking expensive, heart-sinking, call-a-tow-truck kind of damage.

Here's what oil does and why you shouldn't mess around with it:

Lubrication

Your engine is a metal symphony of fast-moving parts. Oil keeps those parts from grinding against each other and tearing themselves apart. Without enough clean oil, friction goes up, and that's when the trouble (and smoke) starts.

Cooling

Engines get hot - real hot. Oil helps carry that heat away from the parts doing all the work. Think of it like a tiny firefighter keeping flames in check under the hood.

Cleaning

Dirt, debris, and tiny metal particles collect inside your engine over time. Oil helps flush them away. But dirty oil stops doing its job and starts causing problems. That's when you need to swap it out.

Corrosion Prevention

Oil forms a protective layer on metal parts, shielding them from air and moisture that can lead to rust and corrosion.

Miss a few oil changes, and suddenly, all these protective benefits vanish. Then it's you vs. an overheating, grinding engine, and spoiler alert: the engine usually wins.

How Often Should You Change Your Oil?

This question gets tossed around a lot, and like most good questions, the answer is: it depends. But don't worry, we're not about to leave you hanging.

Here's a breakdown of what influences your oil change schedule:

Type of Oil

• Conventional Oil: Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or about every 3 months.

• Synthetic Oil: Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or every 6 months.

Synthetic oil lasts longer and performs better under stress. If your vehicle calls for it, then it is usually worth the upgrade.

Check Your Owner's Manual (Yes, Really)

It's not glamorous bedtime reading, but your manual provides specific recommendations tailored to your vehicle's make, model, and engine type. When in doubt, it's your best reference, and we're happy to look it up for you.

Horizon's Secret Sauce: Trust and Transparency

You've probably heard stories about someone going in for a quick oil change and coming out with a list of problems as long as a CVS receipt. That's not how we roll.

Here at Horizon, we believe in showing, not just telling. That's why we use our Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI) tool. It allows us to take photos and videos of your car's condition and send them directly to your phone or email. You see precisely what we see.

If something can wait, we'll tell you. If it's urgent, we'll show you why.

And if repairs are needed, we've got flexible financing options and payment plans to help you stay on top of it all without wrecking your budget.

Got 30 Minutes? We've Got You Covered

Look, we know you've got errands to run, kids to pick up, jobs to do, and lives to live. That's why we keep our oil changes fast, reliable, and friendly.

Whether you're swinging by between meetings or using it as an excuse for 30 minutes of quiet while the kids are at school, we're here to help.

Let's Recap: So, How Long Does an Oil Change Take?

• At Horizon Auto Center: Usually 15 to 30 minutes

• What you get: Fresh oil, a new filter, a friendly inspection, and peace of mind

• Why it matters: It protects your engine, prevents breakdowns, and saves you money long-term

• When to come in: Depends on your soil type, your habits, and what your owner's manual recommends

Your Car Deserves Some Love, And So Do You

When you visit Horizon Auto Center, you're not just another customer; we see you. We know your car's part of your daily life, your routine, your plans. Whether it's your workhorse, your weekend escape vehicle, or the family hauler, we treat it like it matters because it does.

Need an oil change? We've got time for you.

Contact us by phone, visit us in person, or schedule online. We'll be ready with a warm welcome, a comfy seat, and the kind of service that keeps Rockwall rolling.