Oil Change – Price, Interval and What It Includes
An oil change is the most common car maintenance task, and it typically costs 80–150 EUR. In this guide we explain what makes up the price, how often the oil should be changed and what the job involves.
How much does an oil change cost?
The price is made up of the oil, the oil filter and labour. The biggest differences come from oil quality and the garage’s hourly rate:
| Part | Price (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Engine oil | 40–90 EUR |
| Oil filter | 10–30 EUR |
| Labour | 30–60 EUR |
| Total | 80–150 EUR |
What does an oil change include?
- Draining the oil – the old oil is drained and disposed of properly.
- Filter replacement – a new oil filter is fitted.
- Correct oil – the engine gets the oil recommended by the manufacturer.
- Service record – the change is logged in the service history.
How often is the oil changed?
The interval depends on the engine and driving style, but a common recommendation is:
- Once a year or 15,000–30,000 km – whichever comes first.
- Long-life oils allow longer intervals – check the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Short trips and cold starts wear the oil faster – use a shorter interval.
The exact interval is always in the owner’s manual.
Synthetic or mineral oil?
| Oil type | Suitable for | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Full synthetic | New and high-performance engines | Best protection, more expensive |
| Semi-synthetic | Ordinary passenger cars | Good value for money |
| Mineral oil | Older engines | Cheapest, shorter change interval |
Always choose the quality and viscosity recommended by the manufacturer – don’t save money on the wrong oil.
Warning signs
- Dark and thick oil on the dipstick.
- Oily or burnt smell in the engine bay.
- Oil warning light or lubrication warning light.
- Unusual engine noise.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an oil change cost? An oil change typically costs 80–150 EUR depending on oil quality and the garage. It is easy to compare prices.
How often is the oil changed? Usually once a year or every 15,000–30,000 km. The exact interval is in the owner’s manual.
Why is an oil change important? Oil lubricates the engine and carries away heat. Oil that is too old or low increases wear and can damage the engine.
What does an oil change include? Draining the old oil, a new filter, topping up with the correct oil and a service record. The job usually takes under an hour.
Compare oil change prices
Compare car service prices and find a suitable garage near you. The most popular cities are Helsinki, Tampere and Turku. Also read the car service price guide or request a quote directly from a garage.