Looking for a cheap oil change at Costco? You’re probably disappointed to learn they don’t offer this service anymore. But don’t worry—we’ll show you what Costco does provide for your car and where you can get better deals on oil changes in 2025.
The Short Answer: Costco Stopped Doing Oil Changes
No, Costco doesn’t do oil changes. They pulled the plug on this service between 2016-2019 in the U.S. and completely discontinued oil changes in Canada by 2023.
It’s a bummer because their prices were hard to beat—around $19.99 for conventional oil and up to $60 for full synthetic. But that ship has sailed.
What Automotive Services Does Costco Actually Offer?
Just because oil changes are off the menu doesn’t mean Costco abandoned car owners completely. Their Tire Centers still handle several services.
Tire-Related Services You Can Get
Costco’s tire centers focus exclusively on rubber and wheels. Here’s what they’ll do:
Tire installation costs $18.99 per tire, but there’s a catch—you’ve got to buy the tires from Costco first. No bringing in outside rubber.
Lifetime rotation and balancing comes free when you buy tires there. That’s actually a sweet deal considering most shops charge $15-20 per rotation.
Flat tire repairs won’t cost you anything if you bought your tires at Costco. Brought tires from elsewhere? That’ll be $10.99.
Nitrogen inflation replaces regular air in your tires. Some folks swear by it, others think it’s overkill. Either way, it’s included.
Five-year road hazard warranty covers all tire purchases. Hit a nasty pothole? They’ve got your back.
The Costco Auto Program: Not What You Think
Costco offers a 15% discount at participating service centers—sounds great, right? Here’s the kicker: oil changes are specifically excluded from this program.
You can save up to $500 per visit on things like:
- 30K/60K/90K mile services
- Brake jobs and rotor replacement
- Wheel alignments
- Transmission flushes
- AC repairs
But for basic oil changes? You’re on your own.
Why Did Costco Ditch Oil Changes?
The decision makes sense when you peek behind the curtain.
It Wasn’t Profitable Enough
Oil changes don’t make much money. The profit margins are razor-thin compared to selling tires or rotisserie chickens. Costco’s business model thrives on high-volume, low-margin merchandise—but oil changes crossed into “not worth the hassle” territory.
Operational Headaches Piled Up
Managing dozens of different oil filters for various car models ate up valuable warehouse space. That same square footage could stock products with better returns.
Finding and keeping qualified techs proved tough too. Competitive wages for skilled mechanics didn’t align with Costco’s pricing strategy.
Mixed Customer Experiences
While some members loved the service, others complained about long wait times and inconsistent quality. For a company obsessed with customer satisfaction, those mixed reviews didn’t sit well.
Where to Get Cheap Oil Changes in 2025
Let’s talk alternatives. Here are your best options, ranked by value.
Rock-Bottom Budget Options
Walmart Auto Care Centers win the price war at $19.88-$45 for synthetic. Their service quality has improved significantly in recent years, and they’re everywhere.
Goodyear starts at $18.95, making them another solid budget pick.
Sears (where they still exist) charges $19.99 for basic service. Selection is limited these days, but if you’ve got one nearby, it’s worth checking out.
Middle-Ground Choices
Firestone Complete Auto Care runs $24.99-$70 depending on oil type. They’re thorough with inspections and won’t push unnecessary services as aggressively as some competitors.
Pep Boys matches Firestone’s starting price at $24.99-$85, but their coupon game is strong. Check their website before visiting—you’ll almost always find a deal.
NTB (National Tire & Battery) keeps it simple at $24.99. They focus on what needs doing without the upsell pressure.
Premium Quick-Service Shops
Jiffy Lube charges $29.99-$99 but gets you in and out in 10-15 minutes. Time is money, and they respect yours.
Valvoline Instant Oil Change runs $39.99-$100. They’ve perfected the drive-through oil change—you literally don’t leave your car.
Should You DIY Your Oil Changes Instead?
Let’s break down the math.
What DIY Actually Costs
You’ll spend $20-40 on oil (conventional to synthetic) plus $5-15 for a filter. If you don’t own the tools yet, add another $30-100 for a jack, stands, wrench, and drain pan.
Per-change cost: $25-55 once you’ve got the equipment.
The Professional Service Advantage
Here’s what you get when someone else does it:
Multi-point inspections catch problems early. They’ll spot leaking fluids, worn belts, and safety issues you might miss.
Proper waste disposal happens automatically. Used oil is toxic stuff—professionals handle it safely and legally.
Warranty protection stays intact. Some manufacturers void coverage if you can’t prove proper maintenance.
Time savings matter. A professional service takes 15-45 minutes including the inspection. DIY takes an hour minimum, plus cleanup.
| Factor | DIY | Professional |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per change | $25-55 | $20-100 |
| Time required | 60+ minutes | 15-45 minutes |
| Tools needed | $30-100 initial | None |
| Disposal hassle | You handle it | They handle it |
| Inspection included | Only what you check | Full multi-point |
How to Still Use Costco for Car Maintenance
Just because Costco doesn’t change your oil doesn’t mean they can’t help with car care.
Buy Your Oil and Supplies in Bulk
Kirkland Signature Motor Oil (manufactured by Warren Distribution) offers solid quality at warehouse prices. It’s not fancy, but it meets industry standards.
Mobil 1 six-packs sell for around $33.49 at Costco versus $37.99 for a single jug at AutoZone. If you’re doing DIY oil changes, that’s real savings.
Bulk filters pop up occasionally. Stock up when you see them.
Use the Auto Program Strategically
Remember that 15% discount on participating service centers? Save it for expensive jobs like:
- Timing belt replacement
- Brake system overhauls
- Major tune-ups at 60K or 90K miles
- Transmission services
Don’t waste the discount on excluded services or cheap jobs where the savings won’t matter much.
Costco Tires Are Actually a Great Deal
If you need new rubber, Costco’s tire program is legitimately competitive. The installation price, lifetime services, and road hazard warranty create real value.
Compare their all-in pricing against tire shops that nickel-and-dime you for every service. Costco’s upfront approach often wins.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t Assume the Auto Program Covers Everything
Seriously, oil changes are excluded. So are some other basic services. Read the fine print before you drive across town expecting a discount.
Don’t Skip Oil Changes to Save Money
Stretching oil change intervals damages your engine. Period. The $40 you save today becomes $4,000 in repairs tomorrow.
Modern synthetic oils last longer than conventional—usually 7,500-10,000 miles versus 3,000-5,000. But “longer” doesn’t mean “forever.”
Don’t Ignore What Costco Does Well
Just because they don’t change oil doesn’t make them useless for car stuff. Their tire deals, bulk supplies, and Auto Program discounts on major services still deliver value.
The Bottom Line: Your Best Move
Does Costco do oil changes? Nope, and they’re not bringing them back.
Should you care? Not really. Better alternatives exist at similar or lower prices.
What should you do? For quick, cheap oil changes, hit up Walmart or a local shop running promotions. Save your Costco Auto Program discount for expensive repairs where 15% actually matters.
And if you need tires? That’s when Costco shines.
The whole situation proves that even Costco can’t be everything to everyone. They’ve chosen to dominate tires and bulk products while leaving basic maintenance to specialists. Smart business decision, even if it’s inconvenient for members.
Your wallet doesn’t have to suffer though. With oil changes available for under $25 at multiple chains, you’re not exactly hurting for options. Pick the shop closest to your usual route, check for coupons, and get it done. Your engine will thank you, and your bank account won’t hate you.
