What to Expect with an Oil & Filter Change
1. Schedule Your Appointment
Whether scheduling online or over the phone be sure and let us know what you're experiencing so we can provide fast and accurate service advice.
2. Diagnostics and Inspections
Drop off your vehicle and the shop will get to work with inspections and diagnostics using the same equipment as the manufacturers to determine issues and next steps.
3. Digital Vehicle Inspection Report and Estimate
Following the diagnosis we will text you a digital vehicle inspection report, containing pictures and videos of our findings and recommendations.
4. Review and Approval
A service advisor will reach out to walk you through the findings and recommendations to determine how you would like to proceed, or you can approve work directly in your DVI.
5. Work Performed or Scheduled
Most work can be completed immediately, or scheduled based on parts and customer availability.
The World Record Of The Highest Vehicle Mileage Is 3,039,122 miles
Signs Your Vehicle Needs an Oil Service
Waiting too long for an oil & filter change in Billings can lead to sludge buildup and expensive repairs. While following a mileage schedule is best, your vehicle often communicates when it needs attention. Recognizing these symptoms early allows you to address lubrication issues before they damage internal components.
Watch for these common indicators that your engine needs fresh oil:
- Dark, Gritty Oil: Fresh oil is amber; dark, textured fluid indicates heavy contamination.
- Loud Engine Noise: Knocking or ticking sounds suggest parts are not properly lubricated.
- Exhaust Smoke: Blue or gray smoke can indicate an oil leak or internal burning.
- Oil Smell: A burnt oil scent inside the cabin suggests a leak onto hot engine parts.
- Check Engine Light: Dashboard warnings often trigger when oil pressure drops or when maintenance is due.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I schedule an oil change?
The frequency of your oil change schedule depends on your vehicle's make, model, and the oil type used. Historically, the rule was every 3,000 miles, but modern engines and lubricants often allow for intervals of 5,000 to 7,500 miles. However, driving in Billings—with its cold starts, short trips, and towing requirements—often qualifies as "severe driving," which may require more frequent visits. We review your manufacturer's guide and your personal driving habits to recommend the safest interval for your engine.
Is full-synthetic oil better than conventional?
Full-synthetic oil is generally superior because it is chemically engineered to be more consistent and stable. It resists breaking down under high heat and flows better in freezing temperatures, offering better protection during startup. While it costs slightly more than conventional oil, it lasts longer and keeps engines cleaner, which can save money on car repair services in the long run. Most modern vehicles require synthetic or synthetic blends for optimal performance.
Do I really need to change the filter every time?
Yes, replacing the oil filter is a non-negotiable part of the service. The filter is designed to trap metal shavings, dirt, and sludge that circulate through the engine. If you change the oil but leave the old, clogged filter, the fresh oil will quickly become contaminated, rendering the service less effective. We always install a new, high-quality filter during every oil and filter change to ensure your engine receives clean lubrication.
Will changing my oil improve gas mileage?
Regular oil and filter changes can positively impact your fuel economy. When oil is old and sludge-filled, the engine must work harder to pump it and overcome internal friction. This extra effort consumes more fuel. By using the correct viscosity grade of fresh oil, specifically energy-conserving formulas, you reduce engine drag. This allows the vehicle to run more efficiently, potentially improving your miles per gallon over time.
What is included in the courtesy inspection?
Our courtesy inspection is a value-added service included with your oil change. While the oil drains, our technicians visually assess key safety and performance systems. We check tire pressure and tread depth, inspect brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant levels, and look at the condition of belts and hoses. This proactive check helps identify potential issues early, preventing unexpected breakdowns and giving you a complete picture of your vehicle's health.
Schedule Your Maintenance Service Today
Maintaining your vehicle with a regular oil change in Billings, MT, is the single most effective way to protect your investment. At Christian Brothers Automotive Billings, we combine technical expertise with a neighborly approach to care.
Our comprehensive service ensures that your engine is lubricated, clean, and prepared to handle the demands of the road. We take pride in offering transparent advice and efficient service that respects your time and budget.
Don't wait for warning lights to disrupt your day.
Partner with a team that cares about the long-term reliability of your car. Schedule your oil service online or call (406) 420-6648 to get started.
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FAQs
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Q. "What happens if I wait too long for an oil change?"Your oil helps lubricate and absorb heat within your engine. If you wait too long to get an oil change, your engine will eventually have severe and costly issues. Luckily oil changes are relatively inexpensive and have a quick service time. Click here to learn more about the consequences of not replacing your vehicle's oil.
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Q. "What type of oil should I get for my vehicle?"This depends on what vehicle you drive. Each type has its own benefits such as life expectancy or price. If you are unsure what type of oil is right for your car, we can help you determine the best option for you.
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Q. "How much oil does my vehicle require?"Most vehicles hold between 5 and 8 quarts, but it largely depends on the size of your engine.
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Q. "What is a Digital Vehicle Inspection?"With a complimentary Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI) on every visit, you’ll see firsthand photos of your vehicle from under the hood. We’ll let you know if everything is functioning properly or if there are any areas of concern. You can even approve or deny our service recommendations, all straight from your smartphone, or you can, of course, give us a call and we’ll explain our findings in further detail.
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Q. "Do you offer a warranty?"As part of our Nice difference.® commitment to providing our customers the best auto service experience possible, we also offer a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on all the work that we do. We offer this warranty at every Christian Brothers Automotive nationwide, and it will be honored at any location, regardless of which branch did the initial work.
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Q. "Can you provide service under my extended warranty?"Yes. At Christian Brothers Automotive, we work with all major extended warranty providers to make needed repairs for our customers. If you have an extended warranty, you can discuss your carrier with our team when scheduling an appointment and confirm that the work will be covered. You can find a partial list of the extended warranty companies we work with here.
Have more Questions?
Our friendly auto service experts have the answers.
Call your local Christian Brothers Automotive car shop today
Hear What Our Customers Had to Say About Us
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"The staff is always polite and I don’t get the high pressure sales that I’ve had at other shops."
- Barb E