An oil change includes draining old engine oil, replacing the oil filter, adding the correct amount of fresh oil, checking the oil level, and inspecting important vehicle components for potential problems.
For many drivers, an oil change sounds like a simple service: remove the old oil and put new oil in the engine. While those are the main steps, a professional oil change can involve several additional checks that help protect the engine and identify developing problems before they become expensive repairs.
This is especially important for European vehicles such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Volkswagen. These vehicles often use specific oil specifications, specialized filters, and manufacturer-recommended maintenance procedures. Using the wrong oil or overlooking a filter, leak, or fluid problem can affect engine performance and long-term reliability.
In this guide, we will explain exactly what an oil change includes, what a technician checks during the service, how the process works, what is different about synthetic oil changes, and what European car owners should know before scheduling service.
What Is an Oil Change?
An oil change is routine vehicle maintenance in which the used engine oil is removed and replaced with fresh oil. The oil filter is normally replaced at the same time.
Engine oil performs several important functions. It lubricates moving components, helps control heat, carries contaminants toward the oil filter, and reduces friction between internal engine parts. Over time, oil becomes contaminated and its protective properties can decrease.
According to AAA, a typical oil change involves draining the used oil, replacing the oil filter, and adding new oil.
A professional service may go beyond these three basic steps by checking fluid levels, tires, belts, hoses, battery connections, leaks, and other visible components.
The exact services included depend on the repair shop and the vehicle manufacturer.
What Does an Oil Change Include?
A complete oil change generally includes several important steps:
- Vehicle preparation and inspection
- Draining the old engine oil
- Removing the old oil filter
- Installing a new oil filter
- Checking the drain plug and sealing surface
- Adding the correct engine oil
- Checking the oil level
- Starting the engine and checking for leaks
- Resetting the oil service reminder when required
- Performing basic maintenance inspections
Not every shop includes every inspection at no additional charge, so it is important to understand what you are paying for before approving additional services.
Let’s look at each part in detail.
1. Initial Vehicle Inspection
Before changing the oil, a professional technician may perform a quick visual inspection of the vehicle.
The technician can look for obvious problems such as oil leaks, damaged components, worn hoses, belt issues, fluid leaks, or other conditions that may need attention.
This inspection is valuable because the vehicle is already being serviced and may be raised on a lift or positioned where certain components are easier to see.
For European vehicles, a basic inspection can be particularly useful because identifying a small leak or worn component early may prevent a larger repair later.
A professional shop may also check whether there are signs that the vehicle requires additional maintenance based on mileage, age, or manufacturer recommendations.
2. Draining the Old Engine Oil
The first major part of an oil change is removing the old engine oil.
The technician accesses the oil pan and removes the drain plug so the used oil can flow into a suitable collection container.
The old oil may contain dirt, combustion byproducts, microscopic metal particles, and other contaminants accumulated during engine operation.
Fresh oil cannot provide the same benefit if a large amount of old, contaminated oil remains in the system. That is why properly draining the existing oil is an important part of the service.
Technicians also need to make sure the drain plug is handled correctly. The plug and sealing washer or gasket may need inspection or replacement depending on the vehicle.
A damaged drain plug or sealing surface can contribute to oil leaks after service.
3. Replacing the Oil Filter
Replacing the oil filter is one of the most important parts of an oil change.
The filter removes contaminants from the engine oil before the oil circulates through important internal components.
Installing fresh oil while leaving an old, contaminated filter in place can reduce the effectiveness of the service.
The correct filter is important because different engines may require different filter designs, sizes, materials, and specifications.
European vehicles may have cartridge-style filters rather than the spin-on filters commonly found on many other vehicles.
A professional technician should use a filter that meets the vehicle’s required specifications.
AAA also recommends replacing the oil filter as part of a standard oil change.
4. Installing the New Oil Filter Correctly
Replacing the filter is more than simply removing the old part and installing a new one.
The technician should check the filter housing, sealing surfaces, and gasket or O-ring where applicable.
On some cartridge-style systems, the filter housing contains an O-ring that must be positioned correctly. If the seal is installed incorrectly, damaged, or placed in the wrong groove, an oil leak can occur.
The filter should also be tightened according to the manufacturer’s specifications rather than simply being over-tightened.
This is another reason why European oil changes are best performed by technicians who understand the specific vehicle design.
5. Checking the Oil Drain Plug
The drain plug is another small component that plays an important role.
After the old oil has been drained, the technician should inspect the drain plug and sealing area for damage, worn threads, or signs of leakage.
Some vehicles use a crush washer or sealing washer that may need to be replaced during service.
The drain plug must also be tightened correctly.
Over-tightening can damage threads or the oil pan, while under-tightening can allow oil to leak.
A professional technician uses the vehicle manufacturer’s specifications when appropriate.
This small step can help prevent an otherwise unnecessary oil leak after the service.
6. Adding the Correct Engine Oil
Once the old oil has been drained and the new filter installed, fresh engine oil is added.
This is where choosing the correct oil becomes extremely important.
Oil is not simply identified by whether it is “good” or “bad.” Engine oils have different viscosity grades and manufacturer specifications.
For example, an engine may require a specific viscosity such as 0W-20, 5W-30, or another grade, along with a manufacturer-approved specification.
The owner’s manual, oil filler cap, or manufacturer documentation should be consulted to determine the correct oil.
AAA recommends checking the owner’s manual or oil-fill cap for the appropriate viscosity and oil specifications.
European vehicles can have particularly specific oil requirements. BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Volkswagen models may require oils meeting specific manufacturer standards.
Using the correct specification is more important than simply choosing the most expensive oil available.
7. Checking the Oil Level
Adding oil is not the final step.
The technician must verify that the engine has the correct oil level.
Too little oil can reduce lubrication and increase the risk of engine damage. Too much oil can also create problems and should be avoided.
Depending on the vehicle, the oil level may be checked using a traditional dipstick or an electronic oil-level monitoring system.
Some modern European vehicles do not have a conventional dipstick, meaning the technician may need to follow a specific electronic measurement procedure.
The vehicle may need to reach a particular operating temperature or remain stationary for a certain period before the electronic measurement can be performed accurately.
This is another area where following manufacturer-specific procedures matters.
8. Starting the Engine After the Oil Change
After fresh oil has been added, the technician may start the engine and allow it to run briefly.
This allows the new oil to circulate through the engine and oil filter.
The technician can then check for warning lights, unusual noises, or visible leaks.
If the oil filter or drain plug is not sealed correctly, a leak may become noticeable during this stage.
After the engine has run, the oil level may be checked again according to the vehicle manufacturer’s procedure.
This final verification helps ensure that the correct amount of oil is present.
9. Checking for Oil Leaks
A professional oil change should include checking for leaks around areas that were serviced.
The technician may inspect:
- Oil drain plug
- Oil filter
- Filter housing
- Oil pan
- Nearby engine components
If oil begins leaking immediately after an oil change, it should not be ignored.
A small leak may result from a damaged gasket, incorrectly installed filter, loose drain plug, damaged sealing surface, or another mechanical problem.
Finding the issue immediately is much better than discovering it after driving hundreds of miles.
10. Resetting the Oil Service Reminder
Many modern vehicles track oil service intervals electronically.
After completing an oil change, the technician may need to reset the oil service reminder.
If the reminder is not reset, the vehicle may continue to display an overdue service message even though the oil has already been replaced.
European vehicles can have manufacturer-specific procedures for resetting maintenance intervals.
A professional technician should verify that the service reminder has been properly updated when the vehicle requires it.
What Else Is Checked During an Oil Change?
An oil change is primarily an engine oil and filter service, but many professional shops also perform basic inspections.
The exact inspection varies by provider.
Common checks can include:
Fluid Levels
A technician may check accessible fluid levels such as:
- Coolant
- Brake fluid
- Windshield washer fluid
- Power steering fluid, where applicable
- Transmission fluid, where the vehicle design allows an appropriate check
AAA recommends checking several vehicle fluids during routine maintenance.
Low fluid levels can sometimes indicate leaks or maintenance requirements.
Belts and Hoses
Belts and hoses can be visually inspected for obvious signs of wear.
Cracking, fraying, leaking, or other visible damage may indicate that a component requires further attention.
AAA maintenance guidance recommends inspecting belts and hoses as part of routine vehicle maintenance.
Battery and Connections
Some oil change services also include a basic battery or charging-system check.
A technician may inspect battery terminals and cables for corrosion, looseness, or visible damage.
Some service packages may include electronic battery testing.
Tires
Depending on the shop and service package, technicians may check tire pressure and inspect tread condition.
Tire pressure can affect handling, fuel economy, and tire wear.
However, tire rotation is not automatically included in every oil change. Some shops offer it as part of a package or as an additional service.
Air Filter
The engine air filter may also be inspected.
A dirty air filter does not necessarily need to be replaced at every oil change. Replacement should depend on the filter’s condition and the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations.
AAA guidance notes that the engine air filter can be inspected during oil-change-related maintenance.
What Does a Synthetic Oil Change Include?
A synthetic oil change generally includes the same basic process as a conventional oil change:
- Drain old engine oil
- Replace oil filter
- Install the correct synthetic oil
- Check oil level
- Inspect for leaks
- Verify service information
The main difference is the type of oil being installed.
Synthetic oil is engineered to provide consistent performance across a range of temperatures and operating conditions. Some vehicles require synthetic oil or a specific synthetic formulation.
The important point is that synthetic oil should still meet the manufacturer’s required viscosity and specification.
Choosing synthetic simply because it is more expensive does not automatically make it correct for every engine.
What Does an Oil Change Include for BMW?
BMW oil changes can require additional attention because BMW engines may have specific oil specifications and service procedures.
A typical BMW oil service includes:
- Removing the old engine oil
- Replacing the oil filter
- Installing approved engine oil
- Checking oil level
- Checking for leaks
- Resetting the maintenance reminder when required
Some BMW engines use cartridge-style filters, while the oil level may be monitored electronically depending on the model.
BMW owners should avoid choosing oil based only on viscosity. The oil should meet the specification required for the specific engine.
Because BMW vehicles can have advanced electronic maintenance systems, following the manufacturer’s procedure is important.
What Does an Oil Change Include for Mercedes-Benz?
A Mercedes-Benz oil change also involves more than simply adding fresh oil.
The service normally includes draining the old oil, replacing the oil filter, adding the correct oil, checking the oil level, and checking for leaks.
Mercedes-Benz engines can have specific lubricant requirements, so technicians should verify the correct oil specification for the exact model and engine.
A basic inspection may also identify leaks, worn components, or other maintenance concerns.
For owners of older Mercedes-Benz vehicles, checking for oil leaks is particularly useful because seals and gaskets can deteriorate with age.
What Does an Oil Change Include for Audi?
Audi vehicles also require attention to the correct oil specification.
During an Audi oil service, the technician should use the oil recommended for the specific engine and replace the appropriate oil filter.
The technician can also check the vehicle for visible leaks and other maintenance concerns.
Because Audi models can use different engine configurations and oil specifications, the exact oil capacity and service procedure can vary.
Always confirm the requirements for the exact Audi model and engine rather than assuming every Audi uses the same oil.
What Does an Oil Change Include for Volkswagen?
Volkswagen oil service generally includes draining the old oil, replacing the oil filter, installing the correct oil, checking the oil level, and inspecting for leaks.
Volkswagen vehicles can have specific oil standards, so the correct specification should be confirmed before service.
A professional technician can also look for other visible maintenance issues during the service.
This is particularly useful for older Volkswagen models where leaks, worn hoses, or other age-related problems may become more noticeable over time.
How Long Does an Oil Change Take?
A basic oil change can often be completed relatively quickly, but the actual time depends on the vehicle, shop, equipment, and whether additional inspections are performed.
A straightforward service may take around 30 minutes to an hour.
European vehicles can sometimes require more time because of specialized filters, electronic oil-level checks, underbody panels, or manufacturer-specific procedures.
If a technician discovers a leak or another problem during the inspection, the appointment can take longer.
The important thing is not to rush the service simply to save a few minutes.
A correctly completed oil change is more important than the fastest possible oil change.
Does Every Oil Change Include a Full Vehicle Inspection?
No.
This is an important distinction for drivers.
Some oil change packages include a multi-point inspection, while others only include the basic oil and filter service.
For example, one shop may offer oil, filter replacement, tire pressure checks, and fluid checks as part of its standard package. Another shop may charge separately for a comprehensive inspection.
AAA’s current oil-change packages, for example, include items such as an oil filter, motor oil, tire pressure check, selected fluid top-offs, and digital vehicle inspection, depending on the package and vehicle.
Always ask what is included before approving the service.
A full vehicle inspection is more comprehensive than the basic checks normally associated with an oil change.
Why Oil Change Inspections Matter
One of the biggest benefits of having an oil change performed by a professional technician is the opportunity to identify problems early.
A technician may notice:
- Oil leaks
- Coolant leaks
- Worn belts
- Damaged hoses
- Low fluid levels
- Tire problems
- Battery corrosion
- Visible suspension issues
- Damaged underbody components
Finding a small issue early can sometimes prevent a larger repair.
For example, noticing an oil leak during a routine service may allow the owner to repair a seal before the engine loses a significant amount of oil.
Regular maintenance is therefore not only about replacing fluids. It is also about monitoring the overall condition of the vehicle.
What Should You Bring to an Oil Change?
You normally do not need to bring much to a professional oil change appointment.
However, it can be helpful to have:
- Vehicle owner’s manual
- Previous service records
- Information about the last oil change
- Any dashboard warning information
- Notes about unusual noises, smells, or leaks
If you have recently purchased a used European vehicle, service records can be especially valuable.
They can help the technician understand what maintenance has already been completed and what may be due next.
What Should You Ask Before an Oil Change?
Before approving an oil change, ask the shop a few simple questions:
What oil specification does my vehicle require?
This confirms that the correct lubricant will be used.
Which oil filter will you install?
The filter should be appropriate for the specific vehicle.
Is a vehicle inspection included?
This helps you understand whether additional inspection costs may apply.
Will you reset the maintenance reminder?
This is particularly useful for modern European vehicles.
Will you check for leaks after the service?
A final leak check is important after replacing the oil filter and drain plug.
These questions can help prevent misunderstandings about what your service includes.
Can You Do an Oil Change Yourself?
Yes, an oil change can be performed as a DIY maintenance task if you have the correct tools, oil, filter, workspace, and safety equipment.
However, safety is extremely important.
The vehicle must be properly supported if it needs to be lifted. Never rely on a hydraulic jack alone while working underneath a vehicle.
You also need to use the correct oil quantity and specification.
AAA’s DIY oil-change guidance recommends checking the owner’s manual for the correct oil type, quantity, and filter specifications.
Used engine oil must also be collected and disposed of properly.
For many European vehicles, professional service can be worthwhile because of manufacturer-specific procedures, electronic oil-level systems, underbody panels, and specialized filters.
What Is Not Usually Included in a Basic Oil Change?
It is also important to understand what an oil change does not automatically include.
A basic oil change normally does not mean that the following services are included:
- Brake replacement
- Tire replacement
- Wheel alignment
- Transmission service
- Coolant flush
- Brake fluid flush
- Spark plug replacement
- Air conditioning repair
- Battery replacement
- Major engine repair
- Suspension repair
A technician may recommend one of these services after an inspection, but the additional repair should normally be explained before the work is performed.
This protects you from confusing routine oil maintenance with unrelated repairs.
How Often Should You Get an Oil Change?
There is no single oil-change interval that applies to every vehicle.
The correct interval depends on factors such as:
- Vehicle model
- Engine
- Oil specification
- Driving conditions
- Vehicle age
- Mileage
- Manufacturer recommendations
Some modern vehicles also use oil-life monitoring systems.
The best approach is to follow the maintenance schedule for your specific vehicle rather than relying on a universal mileage number.
AAA similarly notes that oil-change frequency varies according to the vehicle, oil type, mileage, age, and driving conditions.
If you frequently drive in heavy traffic, make many short trips, tow heavy loads, or operate the vehicle under demanding conditions, your maintenance needs may differ from those of a vehicle used mainly for long highway trips.
Why European Car Owners Should Take Oil Changes Seriously
European vehicles are engineered with precise specifications, and routine maintenance plays an important role in maintaining their performance.
BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Volkswagen vehicles may require specific oil standards and maintenance procedures.
The cheapest oil change is not necessarily the best oil change if the wrong lubricant or filter is used.
A professional European auto repair shop can help ensure that the service is performed according to the requirements of the specific vehicle.
At Jankowski Import Auto Inc., the focus is on German and European vehicles, including Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, Volkswagen, MINI, and Porsche. The shop describes its services as including preventive maintenance, inspections, diagnostics, and repairs using advanced equipment and OEM-quality parts.
Final Thoughts: What Does an Oil Change Include?
So, what does an oil change include?
At its core, an oil change includes draining the old engine oil, replacing the oil filter, adding the correct fresh oil, checking the oil level, and verifying that there are no leaks.
A professional service can also include additional checks of fluids, tires, belts, hoses, battery connections, and other visible components.
For BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volkswagen, and other European vehicles, choosing the correct oil specification and filter is particularly important.
An oil change may seem like a small maintenance task, but it provides an important opportunity to protect the engine and identify problems before they become expensive repairs.
The best approach is simple: follow the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations, use the correct oil and filter, keep service records, and choose a technician who understands your vehicle.
Regular oil maintenance is one of the easiest ways to support long-term engine reliability and keep your European vehicle performing as it should.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does an oil change include?
An oil change normally includes draining old engine oil, replacing the oil filter, adding fresh oil, checking the oil level, and checking for leaks. Some shops also include fluid, tire, battery, belt, hose, or multi-point inspections.
2. Does an oil change include an oil filter?
Yes. A standard professional oil change normally includes replacing the old oil filter with a new filter that matches the vehicle’s specifications.
3. Does an oil change include checking fluids?
It depends on the service package. Many professional shops check important fluid levels during routine maintenance, but a full fluid service or flush is usually a separate service.
4. Does an oil change include a tire rotation?
Not always. Some oil-change packages include tire rotation, while others offer it separately. Always confirm with the shop before the service.
5. How long does an oil change take?
A straightforward oil change may take around 30 minutes to an hour, although the actual time depends on the vehicle, shop, equipment, and any additional inspections or problems discovered.
6. What oil does my BMW need?
The correct oil depends on the BMW model and engine. Check the owner’s manual and manufacturer specifications for the required viscosity and oil approval before service.
7. What oil does a Mercedes-Benz need?
Mercedes-Benz models can require specific oil specifications depending on the engine. The exact requirement should be confirmed for the vehicle before adding fresh oil.
8. Does an oil change fix an oil leak?
No. An oil change replaces the engine oil and filter, but it does not automatically repair an existing oil leak. If a leak is found, the source needs to be diagnosed and repaired separately.
9. Is synthetic oil better for European cars?
Synthetic oil can provide excellent performance and is required by many modern engines, but the most important factor is using oil that meets the vehicle manufacturer’s required specification.
10. Can I change my own oil?
Yes, if you have the correct oil, filter, tools, workspace, and safety equipment. You must also dispose of used oil properly and follow the vehicle manufacturer’s specifications.