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
Ignoring the warning signs of degrading oil can lead to catastrophic engine failure. It is crucial to stay vigilant and address maintenance needs before they become expensive repairs. Our professional team creates a maintenance plan to prevent these symptoms from occurring.
Here are the most common indicators that it is time for a car oil change in Charleston:
- Check Engine Light: The most obvious signal that your vehicle's systems are detecting a fault or low pressure.
- Dark, Gritty Oil: Fresh oil is amber; if it looks like black sludge on the dipstick, it is saturated with contaminants.
- Exhaust Smoke: Blue or gray smoke from the tailpipe can indicate oil is leaking into the combustion chamber.
- Engine Knocking: A lack of lubrication causes metal components to grind together, creating ticking or knocking sounds.
- Low Oil Level: Consistently low levels may indicate a leak or that the engine is burning oil due to age.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I really change my oil?
While the old standard was every 3,000 miles, modern engineering often allows for longer intervals. However, given the stop-and-go traffic and heat in Charleston, we typically recommend a check every 5,000 miles to ensure optimal protection. Consulting your owner’s manual and our technicians will give you the most accurate schedule for your specific car.
Waiting too long allows sludge to build up, which restricts oil flow to vital engine parts. This starvation of lubrication is a primary cause of engine failure and expensive repairs. Regular oil change Charleston services are the most cost-effective way to protect your engine.
Is synthetic oil worth the extra cost?
Yes, synthetic oil is chemically engineered to provide superior protection compared to conventional oil. It resists thermal breakdown, flows better in cold starts, and contains additives that keep your engine cleaner. For most modern vehicles, it is the best choice for longevity and performance.
While the upfront cost is slightly higher, it lasts longer and protects better. This can save you money in the long run by extending engine life and improving fuel efficiency. Many new car warranties actually require synthetic or synthetic-blend oils.
Do I need an appointment for a quick oil change?
We welcome walk-ins, but we highly recommend scheduling an appointment to minimize your wait time. As a popular car shop, our bays can fill up quickly, especially during peak hours. Booking ahead ensures we can get you in and out as efficiently as possible.
Our goal is to provide a quick oil change experience that residents can fit into their busy schedules. An appointment allows us to prepare the correct filters and fluids for your vehicle before you arrive. You can easily schedule online or by calling our front desk.
What is included in the courtesy inspection?
With every oil change, we perform a complimentary visual check of your vehicle’s major systems. This includes checking tire pressure, fluid levels (coolant, brake, power steering), and inspecting air filters. We also look at the condition of your belts and hoses to catch wear early.
This holistic approach separates us from generic oil change places that only focus on speed. We want to ensure your entire vehicle is safe and road-ready. You receive a full digital health report with photos of any issues we find.
Can I switch from conventional to synthetic oil?
Yes, you can switch to synthetic oil at any time, and it is often beneficial for your engine. It is also safe to switch back if necessary, though once you experience the benefits of synthetic, you likely won't want to. Our ASE-certified technicians can advise you on the best transition plan for your vehicle.
Switching to synthetic is especially helpful for older vehicles that need extra protection against sludge. It provides better protection against the thermal stress of Charleston summers. We help you choose the right fluid to maximize your vehicle's performance.
Schedule Your Engine Service Today
At Christian Brothers Automotive Folly Road, we are committed to keeping your vehicle running smoothly for years to come. Our combination of quality parts, expert labor, and exceptional customer service makes us the premier choice for oil & filter change services in Charleston, SC. Protect your investment with proactive care from a team that treats you like family.
Make your appointment online now or call our shop at (854) 842-3552 to experience the difference of professional automotive service.
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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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"I received a flyer in the mail about the new christian brothers automotive location along folly road and thought I would give it a try. what a fantastic experience. The service was very professional. the waiting room areas with free wifi are clean and invi"
- lee Gessner