A list of different oil change scams and the truth behind it.

Every smart vehicle owner knows that there is more to owning a car than just knowing how to top off gas. There is also the need for a basic understanding of what you should and shouldn't do on the road.

Aside from that, you would also need to have knowledge of basic repair and maintenance. This won't only make you a more responsible vehicle owner. You would also be less prone to oil changing scams like the ones we're about to show you today.

Not all automobile service shops are "happy to serve," because honestly, businesses like this are open mainly to earn profit. There is nothing wrong about that, but the line is crossed when oil-changing companies and automotive shops start to scam and lie to their customers.

Not all automobile service shops are "happy to serve."

Of course, no one ever wants to experience being scammed. Unfortunately, there are a few unlucky car owners out there who actually end up getting fooled for their money. So how do you avoid this? What can you do to avoid falling for oil changing scams?

Today, Philcarnews.com will enumerate the biggest lies and scams that cheaters say to get more money from you. Don’t forget to share what you’ve learned here so more people can evade the same modus operandi.

1. The “Come Back After 3,000” Miles

This is a common tactic used by personnel in automotive repair and quick lube shops. Most of the synthetic oils today can go from 6,000 to 10,000 miles. Higher-quality oils can last up to 15, 000 miles.

But this could still depend on a few factors. This includes the driving conditions, the vehicle, and the oil formula. But even a lot of the conventional oils in the market can last up to 5,000 miles.

Under normal driving conditions, this could last longer. But even if you are driving your vehicle under extreme conditions, 3,000 miles is still a major cheat for an oil change.

Even if you are driving your vehicle under extreme conditions, 3,000 miles is still a major cheat for an oil change

That is, unless your owner’s manual specifically says that your vehicle should have an oil change after 3,000 miles. If not, ditch the salesperson’s suggestion about this.

The most reliable sign that you need an oil change is your manual or the actual oil itself. Always remember that the condition of the oil is always a better indicator than what a sales agent tells you.

>>> Related: 7 common car maintenance myths you might wonder one day

2. The Upselling Scheme

This isn’t new to anyone. If you’ve ever been to a fast-food chain and was offered to get a large drink for Php 20.00 more, you’ve already experienced the “upselling” scheme.

When it comes to oil change and automobile-related services, the process is somewhat similar. Like when you go to a shop for a top off, the mechanic will most likely examine your vehicle.

When it comes to oil change and automobile-related services, the process is somewhat similar

They’ll go around checking the different parts of your vehicle. Some of these parts may include the turn signals, the headlights, and even the air filter. They may also inspect the different fluids in your vehicles like the brake and transmission fluid.

This can be vital to detecting early signs of a faulty bulb or leak. But there can be instances where shops may convince you to let them do maintenance checkups sooner.

You can prevent this from happening by keeping a log of all the maintenance procedures your car has. You should also know when the manufacturer suggests you check or replace these parts.

When you go to a shop for a top off, the mechanic will most likely examine your vehicle

You may also want to learn a few maintenance procedures yourself. This way, you will have more knowledge about how to keep your car in tip-top shape.

You will also be more informed about matters like proper maintenance schedules. This will minimize, if not completely save you from coercing mechanics and shopkeepers.

>>> Related: How a DIY Car Maintenance Can Save You on Costly Vehicle Expenses

3. The “Condescending Tone” Scheme

If a representative of the shop starts to talk to you like you don’t know anything about cars, ditch the place. A good shop and a good mechanic know that not every car owner is as knowledgeable as others.

In fact, not all car owners are even that interested in the mechanical aspects of cars. Good mechanics should be able to meet you at where your understanding is. After all, the main reason you’re there is that you need help.

Not all car owners are even that interested in the mechanical aspects of cars

If you're lost at what the mechanic said, they should be able to answer you politely. This will prevent you from saying “yes” to anything that he suggests for your vehicle.

If you asked why and received a stiff or defensive response, he may be trying to trick you into agreeing to things you don’t really need. If you’re in doubt, get a knowledgeable friend to come along with you.

If a representative of the shop starts to talk to you like you don’t know anything about cars, ditch the place

4. The “Replacement Charge” Scheme

Sometimes, some shady automotive repair shops may tell you that your car needs a filter replacement. But then they may not end up replacing your filter at all but still charge you for it.

So how can you avoid this? Try leaving a mark on the exposed part of the filter using a felt tip pen. If the mechanic actually replaced it, the mark should no longer be there after the consultation. If it’s still there but you were still charged for filter replacement, you may have been scammed.

Sometimes, some shady automotive repair shops may tell you that your car needs a filter replacement

5. The “Dirty Filter” Scheme

This can happen in shops all over the world and not just in the Philippines. Sometimes, especially on busy days, the mechanic may trick you into believing that your filter needs replacement when it doesn’t.

It’s a matter of sleight of hand and you may not notice it if you’re distracted. The mechanic may show you a dirty oil filter saying that your car needs a new one. When in fact, it doesn't.

>>> Related: 5 car parts that are particularly damaged by potholes

The mechanic may trick you into believing that your filter needs replacement when it doesn’t

If you fall for this, there could only be two scenarios favorable to a mechanic with ill-intentions. You can take his suggestion and he may replace your actual filter with a new one. He may also refrain from changing it at all but still charge you with the service.

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