Why Are Subaru Oil Change Expensive? Cost Factors Explained
Wondering why Subaru oil changes cost more? It’s mainly because they need special synthetic oils. These oils fit Subaru’s unique engines.
In this piece, we dig into why Subaru oil changes are pricier. We’ll look at Subaru engines, how often you need oil changes, and the necessary oil types for the best performance.
Managing these costs might seem tricky. For most non-turbo Subaru cars, you need an oil change every 7,500 miles after the first 3,000 miles.
If you have a turbo model, it needs more care with changes every 3,750 miles. Knowing when to do these changes is key to keep your Subaru running smoothly for years.
Also, choosing between a dealer or an independent shop impacts the final cost. Let’s explore the depths of Subaru oil change costs together. Find out how to take care of this important part of owning your vehicle.
What is The Basic Costs of Subaru Oil Changes?
Understanding the costs for Subaru oil changes is crucial for your budget. The type of oil and the service provider can change the price.
Generally, these oil changes cost between $40 to $100. The average cost usually falls between $52 and $68 for standard services.
Price Range Overview
The price of a Subaru oil change varies with your oil choice. Synthetic oil, which boosts performance, tends to cost more.
This is especially true for the Boxer engine in Subarus. Here’s a quick look at the costs:
| Service Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Conventional Oil Change | $40 – $70 |
| Synthetic Oil Change | $60 – $100 |
| Oil Filter Replacement | $10 – $20 |
Typical Service Costs
The cost to maintain a Subaru can vary depending on where you are and who does the service. Dealerships, for example, charge more for labor, often $75 to $150 an hour.
This makes the final bill for an oil change higher. The need for special oil filters can add $10 to $20 to your bill.
About 60% of Subaru owners prefer getting their oil changed at dealerships. Knowing these costs helps you plan for taking care of your Subaru.
Factors Influencing Subaru Oil Change Prices
Several things affect how much you pay for a Subaru oil change. Knowing them can help you plan your budget better.
Type of Oil Used
The type of oil you choose plays a big role in cost. Synthetic oil changes for Subaru cars usually cost more. This is because synthetic oils keep your engine safe and last longer than regular oils.
Even though they’re pricier at first, the benefits and longer time between changes make up for the cost.
Service Location: Dealership vs. Independent Shops
Where you get your oil changed also impacts the price. Dealerships often charge more as they use parts made specifically for Subaru cars and have special tools.
On the other hand, local shops usually offer lower prices. This makes them a better choice for those looking to save money.
Frequency of Required Changes
How often you need an oil change affects your costs too. Subaru suggests changing the oil every 7,500 to 10,000 miles, based on the car model and the oil used.
Sticking to this schedule means you might spend more over time. More oil changes equal more money. That’s why keeping track of your oil change schedule is key to managing your expenses.
The Role of Oil Type in Cost
The oil you pick for your Subaru really affects how much you’ll spend on oil changes. It’s a big deal to choose between conventional and synthetic oil.
These choices touch on both the cost and how well your engine runs. Knowing about these costs can help you choose wisely, matching both your budget and what your car needs.
Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil Costs
Subaru prefers synthetic oil for the best car running. Synthetic oil changes for Subarus cost about $80 to $100. But, conventional oil changes are cheaper, usually $40 to $60.
Here’s more detail on what you might spend depending on the oil type:
| Oil Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Conventional | $40 – $60 |
| Synthetic Blend | $60 – $80 |
| Full Synthetic | $80 – $100 |
Synthetic oil costs more upfront but lasts longer, meaning fewer oil changes. Most Subarus need an oil change every 5,000 miles.
But if you use synthetic oil and don’t have a turbo model, you can wait up to 7,500 miles. Turbo models start needing changes every 3,750 miles but can also extend to 7,500 miles after a few times.
Impact of Oil Choices on Engine Performance
The oil you choose affects not just cost but also how long your engine lasts and its efficiency. Synthetic oil reduces engine wear, uses less fuel, and performs better in different temperatures.
For example, in cold, synthetic oil works in 10 seconds, but regular oil takes 3 minutes. This means quicker protection for your engine.
Getting synthetic oil for your Subaru can save money over time. It lubricates better, improving fuel efficiency by more than 2%.
This shows the higher initial cost can bring benefits later. If many people chose synthetic, it would lower carbon emissions and help the environment.
Why Are Subaru Oil Change Expensive?
Subaru oil changes are pricey due to the unique engineering of these cars. They have boxer engines which need special care.
This detail, along with labor costs, makes the price go up. The engines are complex and need skilled mechanics for their maintenance.
Learning The Complexity of Subaru Engines
Subaru’s boxer engines enhance the car’s performance. But, they require mechanics with special training. These engines need certain oils and service methods, raising the maintenance cost.
Owners often choose synthetic oils for better engine performance, which increases the oil change price.
Labor Costs and Specialized Service Needs
At Subaru dealers, labor costs take up a big part of the oil change cost. Labor can cost about $105 because of the high skill level needed.
This ensures your car is well taken care of. Although it’s expensive, the service warranties provided by dealerships make it a good investment over time.
Subaru Maintenance Costs Overview
Maintaining a Subaru has certain costs. The yearly cost is about $617, which is slightly less than the average $652 for all cars. This insight helps you know what costs to expect during ownership.
Annual Maintenance Expenditures
Regular maintenance for a Subaru can vary in cost. It depends on the model, how often you need service, and the parts needed. Typical costs are as follows:
| Service Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Routine Maintenance | $150 – $350 |
| Oil Change (Conventional) | $40 – $60 |
| Oil Change (Synthetic Blend) | $60 – $80 |
| Oil Change (Full Synthetic) | $80 – $100 |
| Brake Replacement | $400 – $750 |
| 4-Wheel Alignment | $125 |
Comparative Costs with Other Brands
Comparing Subaru with other brands shows it’s a bit pricier. Toyota and Honda owners spend around $441 and $428 yearly, respectively. This makes Subaru maintenance costs a bit high among Japanese car brands.
Looking long-term, a Subaru might cost up to $7,200 in maintenance over 10 years. It’s important to budget for these costs to keep your car running well.
Subaru Oil Change Pricing Breakdown
Knowing how much a Subaru oil change costs is key to planning your budget. Prices vary based on oil type and extra services. This info helps you predict costs and pick services that fit your car’s needs.
Average Cost Estimates Based on Oil Type
An oil change price changes if you use regular, synthetic blend, or full synthetic oil. Below, you’ll see how costs differ depending on what your car’s engine needs:
| Oil Type | Average Cost | Common Engine Types |
|---|---|---|
| Conventional Oil | $40 – $60 | 4-cylinder engines (5 quarts) |
| Synthetic Blend | $50 – $75 | 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder engines |
| Full Synthetic | $80 – $100 | High-performance engines (6 quarts) |
Understanding Additional Service Prices
During an oil change, you might add extra services to help your car run better and last longer. Each service has its own price range:
| Service Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Oil Filter Replacement | $10 – $13 |
| Tire Rotation | $15 – $30 |
| Fluid Top-offs and Inspections | $10 – $50 |
Knowing the costs of these additional Subaru services can affect the total price of your oil change. It’s good to know them ahead of time.
Additional Services During Subaru Oil Change Visits
When you bring your Subaru in for an oil change, the service center may suggest extra services.
These services, like filter changes and fluid top-offs, are important for your car’s health. They help your vehicle run better and last longer.
Importance of Filter Replacements
Changing the oil filter keeps your engine clean from harmful stuff. It usually costs $15 to $30, which might feel like a lot. But, if you skip it, your car could face bigger problems that hurt its performance.
Fluid Top-offs and Inspections
At your oil change, the service team will also check and fill up other fluids. This includes the coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, with prices from $10 to $50.
They also look over your vehicle to make sure everything’s in good shape. While these extra steps add to your maintenance cost, they can prevent serious issues later.
Remember, you can lower some of these costs with Subaru oil change coupons. Service centers often have special deals to make regular care less expensive.
Putting money into these extra services now can save you from bigger bills and trouble ahead.
Subaru Dealer Oil Change Services
Choosing a Subaru dealer for oil changes means better car performance and longer life. Subaru-trained technicians deliver top-notch services. This keeps your car in great shape.
Benefits of Using Dealerships For Oil Changes
Going with a Subaru dealer ensures your car gets genuine parts. This is key to keeping your warranty intact. Dealers use special Subaru Oil that’s perfect for the unique BOXER® engines.
It keeps your car running smoothly. These experts know just what your Subaru needs, recommending oil changes every 6,000 miles or about twice a year.
Costs Compared to Independent Shops
Dealer oil changes at Subaru range from $70 to $100. Independent shops might charge less, from $50 to $80, but might not offer Subaru-specialized care.
They may also not guarantee genuine parts. Choosing a place with Subaru experience means you pay for quality, not just a lower price.
Common Add-Ons and Their Impact on Total Cost
When you take your Subaru for an oil change, you might get recommendations for extra services. These add-ons can boost your car’s performance and make it last longer.
Yet, they also add to your total Subaru maintenance cost. Knowing about these services helps with planning your car’s care budget.
Breakdown of Common Services
| Service | Estimated Cost ($) |
|---|---|
| Oil Filter Replacement | 7 – 10 |
| Tire Rotation | 20 – 50 |
| Brake Fluid Change | 75 – 100 |
| Engine Air Filter Replacement | 20 – 40 |
| Cabin Air Filter Replacement | 30 – 50 |
How Add-Ons Affect Budgeting
It’s key to grasp how these extra services tweak your budget. Say you add a tire rotation to your oil change, that’s $20 to $50 more.
This could hike your overall service bill, more so if you choose several add-ons. Tracking these costs is vital for managing your Subaru upkeep well.
Plus, regular checks and timely services ward off bigger, pricier fixes later. They keep your Subaru dependable.
Benefits of Professional Subaru Oil Changes
Getting your oil changed by professionals can really boost how well and long your Subaru runs. Going to a Subaru dealer for this service means you’re getting help from folks who know your car inside and out.
They make sure your Subaru gets exactly what it needs for the best engine performance and reliability.
Expertise of Subaru Oil Change Specialists
Subaru oil change experts really know their stuff, especially about how to keep your car running smoothly. They offer services perfectly matched to your car, like:
- Meeting the specific needs of your car’s engine.
- Making sure you get oil changes right on schedule, about every 6,000 miles or six months.
- Spotting any possible problems early on during checks.
Long-Term Cost Savings From Regular Maintenance
Regular oil changes do more than just keep your engine happy; they also save you money down the line.
New oil means your engine works better by:
- Using less fuel, which saves you money.
- Keeping the engine cool to avoid big repairs.
- Making sure engine parts last longer by reducing wear.
Sticking to an oil change schedule helps prevent issues that could void your warranty. Plus, you’ll spend less on fixing big problems later. This makes paying for regular oil changes a wise choice.
Affordable Subaru Oil Change Options
Getting your Subaru serviced shouldn’t break the bank. There are plenty of dealerships and independent shops that offer ways to lower the cost of an oil change. You can find many promotions and discounts at dealerships to save money.
For instance, you can use Subaru oil change coupons to get a better deal or package offers that include more services without paying extra. Thinking about your choices will help you find the right option for you.
Promotions and Discounts From Dealerships
Many Subaru dealerships, like Baierl Subaru, often have monthly promotions for oil changes.
These deals make it cheaper to keep up with regular oil changes and might include free extra services, like multi-point inspections.
It’s vital these inspections happen so your car can run well. Dealerships such as Larry H. Miller Subaru Boise try to keep their prices steady all year. They might slightly change prices during sales.
Pros and Cons of Independent Shops
Independent shops can be a good choice for saving on Subaru oil change costs. They’re usually less expensive than dealerships. But it’s smart to think about the downsides too.
Even though many independent shops do great work, it’s key to check if they’re good with Subarus. High-quality parts and service are crucial. Poor quality can cause more engine problems later.
| Option | Cost | Quality of Service | Additional Services |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dealerships (e.g., Baierl Subaru) | Moderate to High | High (Certified Technicians) | Included inspections, promotions |
| Independent Shops | Low to Moderate | Variable | Limited or additional costs |
Conclusion
Knowing why Subaru oil changes cost a lot is key for you as a car owner. It helps you plan your maintenance budget right.
The oil type, where you get the service, and how often you need it all affect the price. For example, over ten years, maintenance costs can range from $6,129 for the Impreza to $8,472 for the Ascent.
Looking for deals or discounts from dealerships can help save money. Remember, paying for quality service boosts your car’s performance and life span.
It’s important to find a good balance between taking care of your car and managing your budget. This balance will help your Subaru run well for many years.
In short, keeping up with your Subaru’s upkeep lets you make smart choices. These choices protect your car and make driving better.
With the right knowledge, you get to enjoy all the perks of owning a Subaru to the fullest.
FAQs
Why are Subaru oil changes more expensive than other brands?
Subaru oil changes cost more because they use specific synthetic oils. Their engines are also uniquely designed, needing skilled labor for upkeep.
What is the average cost of a Subaru oil change?
The usual price for a Subaru oil change is between and . Costs vary from to 0, based on the oil type and where you go for service.
How often should I change the oil in my Subaru?
Subaru suggests getting an oil change every 7,500 to 10,000 miles. This keeps your engine running well and lasting longer.
What factors influence the price of a Subaru oil change?
Price is affected by the oil type (synthetic or conventional), where you go (dealer or local shop), and how often you need it changed.
How does synthetic oil compare to conventional oil in terms of cost?
Synthetic oil changes are pricier, costing to 0. But, conventional oil is cheaper, at to . Synthetic oil lasts longer and works better.
What additional services should I consider during an oil change for my Subaru?
Considering extra services like filter changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks can add to to your bill. They also boost your car’s performance.
Are there benefits to getting an oil change at a Subaru dealership?
Going to a dealership means your Subaru is handled by trained techs. They use OEM parts, which is key for keeping your warranty intact.
How can I save money on Subaru oil changes?
To save, watch for deals at dealerships or try local shops for better prices. Just make sure they know Subarus well.
