It’s tempting to “get ahead” before taking your car in for service, especially when it comes to something as routine as an oil change. You want to be helpful, save time, or maybe even save money. But according to mechanics, some of your good intentions are actually causing headaches, delays, and even safety issues in the shop. These well-meaning habits might seem harmless, but they often lead to more work and less efficiency. Here are seven things mechanics secretly wish you’d stop doing before your next oil change.
1. Overfilling the Oil “Just in Case”
Some drivers think they’re doing their mechanic a favor by topping off the oil before the appointment. Unfortunately, overfilling your engine can lead to foaming, poor lubrication, and even engine damage. Technicians will need to drain the excess before beginning their work, wasting time and resources. Worse, some might assume the oil level is correct and skip the check, creating long-term problems. If you’re going in for an oil change, let the professionals handle the oil from start to finish.
2. Trying to Loosen the Oil Drain Plug Yourself
In an effort to “speed things up,” some DIY-minded customers try loosening the oil drain plug at home before heading to the shop. Mechanics strongly advise against this. One wrong twist can strip the threads or leave the plug dangerously loose, leading to leaks or a complete oil dump. Once damaged, fixing or replacing the plug can delay your service and cost extra. Trust the trained professionals to handle this delicate step with the proper tools and torque settings.
3. Flushing the Engine with Additives
You may have seen engine flush products advertised as a way to clean out sludge before your oil change. But using them right before your appointment is often unnecessary and sometimes harmful. Many newer engines are not designed for aggressive flushes, and mechanics prefer to assess the engine’s condition themselves. If a flush is truly needed, your shop will recommend the right procedure for your specific vehicle. DIY flushing can lead to clogs, leaks, or performance issues that weren’t there before.
4. Cleaning the Engine Bay with Water
Some well-meaning car owners think a sparkling engine bay will impress their mechanic. But hosing down your engine just before an oil change can backfire (literally). Water can seep into sensitive electrical components, spark plugs, or sensors, leading to engine misfires or diagnostic errors. A freshly wet engine is also slippery and harder for mechanics to work around safely. If you want to clean your engine, wait until after your service or leave it to the pros.
5. Resetting the Oil Light Yourself
You might think you’re helping by resetting your oil life monitor before you even get to the garage. But this simple dashboard button can actually cause confusion for mechanics. The oil change indicator is a helpful tool for tracking your vehicle’s service needs and confirming that the reset was done properly. If it’s already cleared, there’s no way to verify that the system is functioning correctly. Let your technician handle the reset so everything is logged and accurate.
6. Bringing Your Own Oil and Filter Without Asking
You may be trying to save money by bringing your own oil and filter to the shop. But unless you’ve checked first, this could be a problem. Some mechanics only work with specific brands or inventory for warranty and liability reasons. Others might reject customer-supplied parts altogether due to compatibility or quality concerns. If you’re hoping to provide your own materials, always call ahead. You shouldn’t just assume they’ll say yes.
7. Piling Personal Items in the Front Seat or Under the Hood
It might not seem like a big deal, but loading your car with bags, groceries, or even tools can make a simple oil change more complicated. Mechanics often need to access the hood release or reset systems from inside the vehicle, and clutter can slow them down. In rare cases, loose items near the fuse box or battery can be dangerous. Keeping the car interior and engine area clear helps the technician work faster and safer.
If You Really Want A Smoother Service, Less Is More
Your mechanic doesn’t need you to prep the car like it’s going in for surgery. In fact, when it comes to oil change preparation, the best thing you can do is just show up on time with your keys. Let the professionals do what they’re trained to do, and avoid trying to “help” with steps that can lead to damage or confusion. Sometimes, the most respectful thing you can do for your vehicle (and your technician) is to simply stay hands-off and trust the process.
Have you ever tried to “prep” for a car service and ended up causing more problems? Share your oil change stories in the comments!
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The post What Mechanics Wish You’d Stop Doing to ‘Prepare’ for an Oil Change appeared first on Clever Dude Personal Finance & Money.
