Oil change cost – how much will you have to pay?

Car owners need to carry out regular maintenance on their vehicle to keep it in top working order – and this includes having an oil change.

This should be carried out at least every 12 months or 12,000 miles (whichever comes first) and is normally included when you book your car service.

Here we look at what you would expect to pay to have an oil change and what signs to look out for to make sure you have one carried out before it starts casing issues with your vehicle.

Are you struggling with car maintenance? Find a local mechanic with the RAC or use a mobile mechanic.

Average oil change cost

You will be expected to pay around £160, based on 2025 data from RAC Mobile Mechanics, for an oil change, which is dependent upon your vehicle, make and model, and the recommended oil for your vehicle, as per your manufacturer recommendations.

This includes removing the old oil, replacing the oil filter and filling it up with new fluid by a mobile mechanic.

This is the average price for an oil change in the UK, which means the price you pay may differ based on the age, make and model of your vehicle. 

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What is an oil change?

Engine oil is important for many reasons, including lubricating important moving parts and reducing friction and damage over time.

It also plays a key role in helping to cool the engine and collect dirt and contaminants.

Engine oil also helps prevent corrosion within the engine and key components of the vehicle.

Knowing what oil your car needs before you call a mechanic is helpful, but if you are unsure, they will be able to help.

When it needs to be changed, the oil will need to be drained into a drain pan. The filter will then need to be replaced.

A new oil plug will then be placed in the housing and new oil will be filled up to the correct level (which is marked with a dipstick).

It is important to check for leaks and damage when carrying out an oil change.

How often should you change the oil in your car?

The frequency of an oil change can depend on a variety of factors, but it should be done every 12,000 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first). 

In some cases, drivers will have the oil changed every 6,000 miles or six months (whichever comes first) - this is usually done during an interim service.

Depending on the type of oil used (conventional, synthetic blend, or full synthetic), driving conditions, how well maintained the engine is, and manufacturer recommendations, an oil change should happen every six months to a year.

This is why it is often a good idea to have it done when having your car service or MOT.

Signs you need an oil change

There a several indicators that there may be a problem with your car, caused by the urgent need for an oil change.

Here are the signs that your car needs an oil change:

• Clicking, knocking, or crunching sounds from the engine
• Excess smoke from the exhaust
• Poor fuel economy
• Engine overheating
• Oil smell inside the vehicle
• Oil looks dark and filled with debris
• Your car engine oil light is on the dashboard

If you need an oil change, book a Mobile Mechanic today.