How do I know my local garage is really putting in the premium oil I pay for when I get my oil changed?

Question

I pay for the best possible oil available because I do a lot of driving in a myriad of driving conditions but I want to make sure I'm getting what I pay for.

Answer 1

Request the empty containers. I use MOBIL1 in my car and have always wondered the same thing. I cannot see the service department so there is no way to know if they are pouring the good stuff in my car or just stuffing the bottles in their lunchbox and putting dino oil in my car. If you request the empty containers you have a better chance of being guaranteed they did what you asked for. Another option is to find a dealership where you can watch what is being done. I now go to a dealer (if I have to) that has transparent glass between the waiting area and the shop.

Answer 2

The only way is to go to a garage that has a shop window for the customers so that you can see the technician doing the work. I don't trust the shop either. Of course I do my own engine oil changes for that reason.

Answer 3

Most "premium" oils are only in quart bottles. You can tell them you want the empty plastic bottles from your oil change.

Answer 4

Butter

Answer 5

You can have oil testing labs test your oil. If you go to that big blue and red store be aware they do switch oils on you.

Answer 6

Sometimes you can tell by the color, if it is very light, than it is premium.

Answer 7

If you don't trust them, go somewhere else.

There is no way to check, short of watching them do it.

Answer 8

unless you watch them or ask for the dispensed bottles, you really cant.