Auto Services: Oil Changes, Tire Service, Car Batteries and more - Walmart.com (2023)

About Auto Services: Oil Changes, Tire Service, Car Batteries and more - Walmart.com

Basic Car Care FAQs

Whether you have a new car or have been driving yours for years, basic car care is essential to keeping it running smoothly, efficiently and for as long as possible. Walmart has over 2,500 Auto Care Centers nationwide with certified technicians that are ready to help you with your auto maintenance needs. These answers to common questions help you understand your car's needs and how Walmart can help.

What Auto Services Does Walmart Provide?

Walmart's certified auto care technicians perform basic auto maintenance services to keep your car rolling. Some services include tire installation, battery testing and installation, oil and lube services and more. Simply drop your car off at the Auto Care Center and technicians get to work while you shop.

What Is the Difference Between Basic Tire Installation and Value Tire Installation?

The basic tire installation package includes tire mounting, valve stems, lifetime balance, rotation every 7,500 miles and 50-mile lug re-torque. The value tire installation package includes all of the basic services but throws in a road hazard protection warranty.

What Is Road Hazard Protection?

The road hazard warranty protects your tires after you drive them out of the Auto Care Center. The warranty offers coverage for unforeseen road hazards and flat tire repairs. With road hazard protection, your tires purchased from the Walmart Tire Center are eligible for repairs or replacement depending on the extent of the damage. Repairable punctures are fixed free of charge and meet the Rubber Manufacturers Association guidelines.

What Are the Different Types of Oil?

Not all motor oils are the same. Putting the wrong type of motor oil in a vehicle could have major consequences. There are five main types of oil used in lightweight vehicles. The type of oil you choose depends on your vehicle manufacture's recommendations, your driving habits, the age of the engine and the climate you drive in. If you're still confused about which type your car needs, the technicians at Walmart Auto Care Center can help you choose the right one for your vehicle.

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  • Conventional Oil: The least expensive type of motor oil available. Meets API and SAE standards, but does not contain additives that could boost performance. API refers to the gravity (heaviness or lightness) of oil as determined by the American petroleum Institute's standards while the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) sets viscosity grading criteria. Conventional oil is ideal for frequent oil changes or cars with low mileage engines.
  • Premium Conventional Oil: The most common type of motor oil. 5W-20, 5W-30 and 10W-30 are common viscosity ratings and cover most types of light duty vehicles. The higher the number, the thicker the oil. In general, thicker oils provide more engine protection while thinner oils yield higher fuel economy.
  • Synthetic Oil: This type of oil is designed for longer lasting performance and to protect against deposits. It performs well at both low and high temperatures. While synthetic oil can sometimes help boost the performance of a car, it is also more expensive than conventional oils. Owners should consult the owner's manual for their vehicle to determine if this type of oil is necessary.
  • Synthetic Blend Oil: Synthetic blends offer the best of both conventional and full synthetic oils. They protect your vehicle at high temperatures without the higher price tag of full synthetic oils. These are popular for light pickup trucks and SUVs because of their performance with higher engine loads.
  • High-mileage Oil: This type of oil is specially formulated for engines that have over 75,000 miles. High-mileage oil includes seal conditioners to protect seals inside the engine by improving flexibility.

What Is the Purpose of Cleaning a Car's Fuel System?

Cleaning a car's fuel system is important to keeping it running smoothly and efficiently. This is especially important for older vehicles or vehicles with high mileage because of buildup and deposits on the injector system. If the fuel injectors become clogged, a car may experience poor acceleration, reduced engine power and other problems.

How Do You Know When it Is Time to Replace a Battery?

Your car begins to experience symptoms long before a battery dies completely. Being aware of these symptoms could save you the trouble of being stranded with a dead battery. Walmart Auto Care Center can assist you with battery testing, installation and other services. Consider replacing your car battery when your vehicle experiences these symptoms:

  • Takes longer than normal to crank
  • Battery light on dashboard comes on
  • Low battery fluid levels
  • Swollen battery
  • Leaking battery

Additionally, if the battery is over three years old but not experiencing these symptoms, have it tested annually to ensure it is in good condition.

How Often Should You Change an Air Filter?

A clogged or dirty air filter can affect your fuel efficiency, acceleration and engine performance. In order to keep your car in top condition, replace the air filter every 30,000 to 45,000 miles. If you drive in severe conditions, such as on dirt roads or in heavy traffic, check and replace the air filter as often as every 15,000 miles. If you purchase your air filter from Walmart, installation is free.

When Should You Replace Wiper Blades?

Replace wiper blades twice a year in order to stay safe on the road. Walmart auto technicians check the condition of your wiper blades with Standard, High Mileage and Power & Performance oil changes to make sure they are in good condition.

(Video) A Day In The Life Of A Walmart Automotive Technician

Shop Walmart for all of your auto and tire maintenance needs.

(Video) Never Bring Your Car to Walmart

Basic Car Care FAQs

Whether you have a new car or have been driving yours for years, basic car care is essential to keeping it running smoothly, efficiently and for as long as possible. Walmart has over 2,500 Auto Care Centers nationwide with certified technicians that are ready to help you with your auto maintenance needs. These answers to common questions help you understand your car's needs and how Walmart can help.

What Auto Services Does Walmart Provide?

Walmart's certified auto care technicians perform basic auto maintenance services to keep your car rolling. Some services include tire installation, battery testing and installation, oil and lube services and more. Simply drop your car off at the Auto Care Center and technicians get to work while you shop.

What Is the Difference Between Basic Tire Installation and Value Tire Installation?

The basic tire installation package includes tire mounting, valve stems, lifetime balance, rotation every 7,500 miles and 50-mile lug re-torque. The value tire installation package includes all of the basic services but throws in a road hazard protection warranty.

(Video) Quick Lube Process- New Employee Training Guide

What Is Road Hazard Protection?

The road hazard warranty protects your tires after you drive them out of the Auto Care Center. The warranty offers coverage for unforeseen road hazards and flat tire repairs. With road hazard protection, your tires purchased from the Walmart Tire Center are eligible for repairs or replacement depending on the extent of the damage. Repairable punctures are fixed free of charge and meet the Rubber Manufacturers Association guidelines.

What Are the Different Types of Oil?

Not all motor oils are the same. Putting the wrong type of motor oil in a vehicle could have major consequences. There are five main types of oil used in lightweight vehicles. The type of oil you choose depends on your vehicle manufacture's recommendations, your driving habits, the age of the engine and the climate you drive in. If you're still confused about which type your car needs, the technicians at Walmart Auto Care Center can help you choose the right one for your vehicle.

  • Conventional Oil: The least expensive type of motor oil available. Meets API and SAE standards, but does not contain additives that could boost performance. API refers to the gravity (heaviness or lightness) of oil as determined by the American petroleum Institute's standards while the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) sets viscosity grading criteria. Conventional oil is ideal for frequent oil changes or cars with low mileage engines.
  • Premium Conventional Oil: The most common type of motor oil. 5W-20, 5W-30 and 10W-30 are common viscosity ratings and cover most types of light duty vehicles. The higher the number, the thicker the oil. In general, thicker oils provide more engine protection while thinner oils yield higher fuel economy.
  • Synthetic Oil: This type of oil is designed for longer lasting performance and to protect against deposits. It performs well at both low and high temperatures. While synthetic oil can sometimes help boost the performance of a car, it is also more expensive than conventional oils. Owners should consult the owner's manual for their vehicle to determine if this type of oil is necessary.
  • Synthetic Blend Oil: Synthetic blends offer the best of both conventional and full synthetic oils. They protect your vehicle at high temperatures without the higher price tag of full synthetic oils. These are popular for light pickup trucks and SUVs because of their performance with higher engine loads.
  • High-mileage Oil: This type of oil is specially formulated for engines that have over 75,000 miles. High-mileage oil includes seal conditioners to protect seals inside the engine by improving flexibility.

What Is the Purpose of Cleaning a Car's Fuel System?

Cleaning a car's fuel system is important to keeping it running smoothly and efficiently. This is especially important for older vehicles or vehicles with high mileage because of buildup and deposits on the injector system. If the fuel injectors become clogged, a car may experience poor acceleration, reduced engine power and other problems.

How Do You Know When it Is Time to Replace a Battery?

Your car begins to experience symptoms long before a battery dies completely. Being aware of these symptoms could save you the trouble of being stranded with a dead battery. Walmart Auto Care Center can assist you with battery testing, installation and other services. Consider replacing your car battery when your vehicle experiences these symptoms:

  • Takes longer than normal to crank
  • Battery light on dashboard comes on
  • Low battery fluid levels
  • Swollen battery
  • Leaking battery

Additionally, if the battery is over three years old but not experiencing these symptoms, have it tested annually to ensure it is in good condition.

(Video) Oil change scams: Hidden camera investigation on what really happens to your car (CBC Marketplace)

How Often Should You Change an Air Filter?

A clogged or dirty air filter can affect your fuel efficiency, acceleration and engine performance. In order to keep your car in top condition, replace the air filter every 30,000 to 45,000 miles. If you drive in severe conditions, such as on dirt roads or in heavy traffic, check and replace the air filter as often as every 15,000 miles. If you purchase your air filter from Walmart, installation is free.

When Should You Replace Wiper Blades?

Replace wiper blades twice a year in order to stay safe on the road. Walmart auto technicians check the condition of your wiper blades with Standard, High Mileage and Power & Performance oil changes to make sure they are in good condition.

Shop Walmart for all of your auto and tire maintenance needs.

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FAQs

How much does Walmart usually charge for an oil change? ›

The cost of an oil change at Walmart ranges from $20 to $55 depending on your location, vehicle type, type of oil, and so on. Most oil changes take between 20-30 minutes, and you don't need to schedule an appointment beforehand.

How much does it cost to put on tires at Walmart? ›

3. How Much Does Walmart Charge To Install Tires? If you purchase your tires from Walmart or Walmart.com, you can get your tires installed at a Walmart Auto Care Center for around $17 per tire. That means you'll be looking at a total of $68 for basic installation on four tires.

Will Walmart install car battery? ›

Walmart will install your battery free of charge (that is at no extra cost to you, not without the battery being fully charged with electricity LOL) provided the battery was bought from Walmart at the time of fitting. Best regards Bob.

Does Walmart put air in tires for free? ›

Share: So you are completing your standard vehicle maintenance walk around and notice a tire looks low. You know your local Walmart has a tire center, but will they top off your tire PSI for free? The truth is that free air is a privilege Walmart offers to Sam's Club members, but not every customer.

Is synthetic oil better? ›

Is synthetic oil better for my engine than conventional oil? Yes, synthetic oil is better for your engine than conventional oil. Although conventional oil (i.e., mineral oil) can provide adequate lubrication performance, it can't compete with the overall engine performance and protection provided by synthetics.

How long does synthetic oil last? ›

If you own a car that runs on synthetic oil, you're probably wondering, “How often do you change synthetic oil?” Depending on the type of car you have, most synthetic oils last between 7,500 miles and 15,000 miles. However, you'll need to check your owner's manual for more specific figures.

How much does Walmart charge for a battery? ›

Retailers who sell car batteries are legally required to charge a $5 minimum battery core charge to encourage battery recycling. Hence, the Walmart battery core charge.

How much should a car battery cost? ›

Car batteries typically last anywhere from two to five years, depending on the battery type, climate and vehicle. Based on the make and model of your vehicle, you can expect to pay around $50 to $120 for a standard car battery and around $90 to $200 for a premium type.

How much should it be to get a new car battery? ›

Depending on power, size, and quality, prices for a replacement car battery range from about $45 to $250. Your local dealership, auto parts store or automotive service center can check your current battery or hook you up with a new car battery.

How much does Walmart charge to put on tires and balance them? ›

Walmart Auto Care Center combines their tire balancing and rotation service, for a total cost of $15 per tire. So, for a standard 4-wheel vehicle, you can expect to pay $60 for balancing, which includes tire rotation, plus tax.

When you buy tires from Walmart do they put them on? ›

Even if you don't purchase your tires from Walmart, you will still be able to have them installed at any Walmart Auto Care Center. Walmart charges customers the same price for tire installation regardless of where the tires were purchased.

How can I fill my tires for free? ›

Here are 10 places that offer free air to anyone looking to inflate their tires.
  1. Discount Tire. ...
  2. Costco. ...
  3. Firestone Complete Auto Care. ...
  4. QuickChek. ...
  5. Hy-Vee. ...
  6. Just Tires. ...
  7. NTB. ...
  8. Sam's Club.
Aug 2, 2022

Do you need an alignment after replacing tires? ›

We recommend an alignment after the installation of new tires. This helps you get the most life from your new tires. Wheel alignment checks are always advised after a significant impact or uneven tire wear is detected.

Does Walmart change brake pads? ›

Unfortunately, Walmart Auto Care Center does not offer brake services. This includes brake checks, brake pad replacements, etc. However, you can still purchase brake parts at Walmart if you're interested in doing the work yourself for a low cost.

Why does Walmart charge a tire recycling fee? ›

Basically, this fee allows for a disposal service or company to handle your old tires as they make their way to a recycling facility. These facilities and services have passed licensing requirements and are properly trained to dispose of these materials.

Is it OK to put synthetic oil in an old car? ›

Modern synthetic oil is safe to use in all types of vehicles, ranging from new purchases to classics to aging not-so-classics. The idea that synthetic oil could harm old engines probably comes from a time before synthetic oils had been extensively tested.

What happens if you put synthetic oil instead of full synthetic? ›

Synthetic oils typically provide better protection than conventional oils, but switching back and forth between full synthetic and conventional oil will not damage the engine. Of course, this depends on the current engine condition and the quality of the conventional oil being used.

What is the disadvantage of synthetic oil? ›

A few disadvantages of synthetic oil to be aware of include: Probably the most glaring downside of synthetic oil is the cost. The price of synthetic oil is around two to four times the price of conventional oil. Synthetics may be more prone to additives precipitation during cold storage conditions.

How often do you really need to change full synthetic oil? ›

Unlike regular car oil, synthetic oil is more refined which can lower friction, reduce engine sludge, and increase engine performance. It's recommended that you change synthetic oil every 7,500 – 15,000 miles, depending on the vehicle and the brand of synthetic oil used.

What happens if you go too long without an oil change? ›

Skipping an oil change leads to the vehicle's oil thinning over time and catching a buildup of metal, dirt, and other particles. Over time the oil will become abrasive and wear down on vital engine parts. It is crucial to follow a maintenance schedule that fits both your vehicle needs and your driving style.

Can synthetic oil last for 2 years? ›

Most synthetic oils are rated to last between 10,000 to 15,000 miles, or six months to a year. Manufacturer recommended ratings are typically applied to "normal driving," and don't reflect severe driving conditions that may require more frequent oil changes.

How long should a car battery last? ›

Some cars will get up to five or six years out of their battery, while others will need a new one after only two years. In general, your car will usually need a new battery after three to four years. Replacing your car battery is another part of routine maintenance.

Are the chargers at Walmart free? ›

You can't charge an EV at Walmart for free.

But, Walmart does offer fast chargers that let you charge the electric vehicle in about 15-30 minutes while you're out shopping.

Does Walmart Exchange car batteries for free? ›

And if you've ever ended up with a dead battery, you know how inconvenient that is. Under their standard return policy, Walmart accepts returns, refunds, and exchanges on new car batteries within the first 90 days of purchase. After 90 days, a customer must have an active warranty to qualify for a replacement.

What is the difference between a cheap and expensive car battery? ›

Difference In Quality

Buying a cheaper battery is a very tempting option to get you back on the road with minimum expense. However, cheaper batteries are often made using lower grade components such as cheap cables, wires, metals and electrolytes. These components wear out much quicker than higher quality batteries.

How do I know when my car battery needs replacing? ›

Signs Your Battery Needs Replacing
  1. Difficulty Starting the Ignition/Turning Over the Engine. ...
  2. Dashboard Lights & Lighting Issues. ...
  3. Electrical Malfunctions. ...
  4. Poor Performance in Cold Weather. ...
  5. Strange Odor.
Nov 19, 2022

How can you tell when your car battery is going bad? ›

Signs you have a bad battery
  1. The car is difficult to start.
  2. Once started, the car doesn't hold a charge for very long.
  3. Dim or flickering taillights and headlights.
  4. Dim interior and dashboard lights.

When replacing a car battery What should you replace first? ›

Positive first, then negative. When disconnecting the cables from the old battery, disconnect the negative first, then the positive. Connect the new battery in the reverse order, positive then negative.”

Is it okay to get a cheap car battery? ›

While high quality car batteries will use rubber between the plates, many of the cheaper batteries consist of PVC separators, which don't last as long. Cheaper batteries can also consist of lower quality components as compared to higher quality batteries, such as subpar cables and wires.

Is it better to charge your car battery or get a new one? ›

If your battery is over 4 years old we'd advise replacing it with a new one. You may find you're able to temporarily recharge a battery this old, however it's likely to lose its charge again very soon. Older batteries do deteriorate over time and naturally lose their ability to hold a charge.

How much does oil change cost? ›

An average oil change can cost anywhere from $20 to $60 or more, according to prices advertised by major retailers on Oct. 13, 2021. If you take your vehicle to a shop for an oil change, they will charge you for a variety of items, including: New oil filter: Cost can vary depending on your vehicle.

Does Walmart price match oil changes? ›

No. Because oil changes are availed in person, a price match would imply price matching a competitor's price or a price advertised by another Walmart location. Walmart's in-store price match policy excludes both of these conditions.

How much should you charge for an oil change? ›

Typically, an oil and filter change using conventional oil will cost between $35 and $75, depending on your area. If your car requires synthetic oil, you should expect to pay more (anywhere from $65 to $125) but you make up some of the cost, since synthetic oil lasts longer and has to be changed less frequently.

How much is an oil change at Costco? ›

While Costco doesn't offer oil changes anymore, they still have a GREAT way to save money on your next oil change. The next time you walk into Costco, head to the gift cards section and look for Jiffy Lube gift cards. They typically come in a 2-pack with each being valued at $50…but you ONLY pay $74.99 for both.

How much should an oil change cost 2022? ›

Conventional typically costs the least, while full synthetic is the priciest. As of May 2022, the average cost of an oil change based on six nationwide franchises is $31.66 for the most basic service with no extra quarts, and $75.32 for top service with no extra quarts.

How often do you really need to change your oil? ›

It used to be normal to change the oil every 3,000 miles, but with modern lubricants most engines today have recommended oil change intervals of 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Moreover, if your car's engine requires full-synthetic motor oil, it might go as far as 15,000 miles between services!

How often should you change your oil? ›

And while the old rule of thumb was to change your oil every 3,000 miles or so, modern automotive technology has stretched that figure even further. Due to better engineering and better oil formulations, now you can expect between 7,500 to 10,000 miles between oil changes!

Is Walmart suppose to price match? ›

Walmart won't price match any competitors in person. But if you're shopping on Walmart.com, they'll price match the following retailers' websites only: Amazon. Academy.com.

Does Walmart change fuel filters? ›

The Vehicle Services Walmart Offers:

Oil and Lube Services. Fuel System Services. Engine Air Filter Replacement.

Why is Walmart getting rid of price matching? ›

The company is ending Savings Catcher, a popular price-matching tool that automatically refunded customers for any price differences between Walmart and its competitors. Walmart said it's ending the program because it already offers the lowest prices in most cases.

How often do you change synthetic oil? ›

Unlike regular car oil, synthetic oil is more refined which can lower friction, reduce engine sludge, and increase engine performance. It's recommended that you change synthetic oil every 7,500 – 15,000 miles, depending on the vehicle and the brand of synthetic oil used.

Is there a difference between synthetic blend and full synthetic oil? ›

Synthetic blend oil is different because it uses a mixture of synthetic and conventional based oils. Synthetic blend oil offers less protection than full synthetic oil and needs to be changed more often.

Is it cheaper to bring your own oil for an oil change? ›

So, is it cheaper to change your own oil? By doing this task yourself, you'll save between $25 and $75 per oil change, depending on the type of oil and filter you use.

What is the cheapest type of oil change? ›

Conventional oil is cheaper, averaging around $70 for an oil change. Synthetic oil is a little more expensive. The price difference between conventional and synthetic oil is about $30. If your only concern is saving money, a traditional oil change makes sense.

What kind of oil does Costco use for oil changes? ›

Kirkland Signature 0W20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil, 2-pack | Costco. Kirkland Signature 0W20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil, 2-pack 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Are expensive oil changes worth it? ›

In other words, findings suggest an expensive oil may not provide any additional benefit to the helping an engine last longer, despite additives. “When you look at the chemical breakdown of each of these oils, there's very, very little difference between them.

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