really only tricky part is where to put that oil after you change it - valvoline instant oil change centers accept it for free and you most likely do have it nearby. oil pan i posted can be sealed right after you got oil into it and you just bring it to them, they empty it and this is it.

 

How do we define "cheap?"

Is it "cheap" to think that $160? $200? $250 is too much to pay for a procedure that takes 45 minutes to do? Is it "cheap" to shop around for a reasonable price to do routine, easy to do maintenance?

I have been at that will charge $300 for changing the oil on a A91 engine...a procedure that should take no more than 45 minutes for the minimally competent.

And for the $300...how many of us have had:

...wrong oil used...
...stripped drain plugs...
...overfilled oil...
...underfilled oil...
...inadequately torqued bolts...

While the brand name is Porsche, it's still an oil change...an extremely easy task for even the mechanically challenged. While I wouldn't haggle about a coupon for free labor on an oil change, I certainly will not pay the $300+/hr premium that some dealerships charge for this type of labor. If you think it is worth it - I've got some magic beans to see you...

 

Considering the fact that I just put in some oil in my car yesterday (1 quart for $8 @ Advance Auto Parts), and if Suncoast themselves are selling the filter for $20 or even less I just don't get how they can charge $160 for an oil change with free labor...

 

exactly..they are charging $160 for 8 qts and a filter...doesnt add up..you dont have to be "cheap" to turn that down and know you are getting ripped off. Theres a difference between being "cheap" (tipping 5% for good service) and being smart with your money (not paying $160 for oil and filter)

 

My oil level was quite low and I used 1 quart, it filled more than halfway. So I don't even know why you need 8 quarts... Maybe you need to flush it a couple of times...

 

3.6L 997.1 full capacity without filter is exactly 8qt according to workshop manual. Filter takes additional bit of oil.

 

The electric sensor isn't a sensor that shows all the oil in engine, it shows the range of min to max oil so 1 quart or litre will be more then enough to bring it from min to a normal level.

 

when I changed oil pan I drained whole system, then when changed filter I pre-loaded it before mounting back, and after putting everything back together I poured in 7qt - did let it settle, then checked oil level - it was blinking. I then added 8th qt - and next attempt to meter it showed most upper line lit like it`s an overflow, but it is not right - it is just sensor. no smoke comes out of exhaust at start and throttle body does not have any oil - so it is all bogus.

point is - it does not hurt to know up front what is an exact capacity of the engine and how much oil it has to take. oil meter is not necessarily accurate - according to manual if it was blinking it lowest segment full qt (liter) added should have shown it at 3/4 full, not more than 4/4 full. but it figures it works on its own.

 

Thanks for the info guys! So how do you know where to stop when you change oil without the electronic meter?

I really don't want to pay the dealership $750 for the annual maintenance. I get my car checked & bleed the brakes regularly for the tracks anyways...

 

add 7 quarts, and then check, base your last quart on the reading. I prefer to keep my oil level in the middle of the gauge.

 

well, proper way is after you put 7qt into it - start adding a little bit every time and check meter until it lits up all line except most upper one.

if meter works correctly it should show this when you put your required amount of oil in.

I just know now for a fact that my meter lies.

 

P997S, if you need help changing your oil you can come over to my house. I have not done an oil change myself on my 09 but it's just like my 07 except the filter is on top of the engine on the 09. I just pay Vortex to change the oil. I can also show you how to change your pads and rotors...I do the pad swap twice a month and front rotors 1 to 2 times a year. So easy you will laugh!

 

One difference -- (Even though it may be simple)
If they screw up --you have a piece of paper with them being accountable.
If the owner screws up - he's accountable and it may give enough wiggle room to deny future claims .

The old argument is -one pays for their training, experetise , overhead , and accountability . This philosophy extends beyond cars to nearly every profession BTW .

Even though i personally view almost everything as being negotiable .. it's up to the person to pick and choose his battle . In my opinion .. I feel he picked a battle which offers too little to gain and more to lose in the long run because --

1) he has a new car with 4 years ahead
2) business relationships involve more than simply being right or wrong .. there is a human psychological component and if someone feels appreciated on a 300 dollar oil change he may remember that when you really need his help (and it costs more).

 

Larry, as always you make good points.

Here is my counter argument:
I just don't think it is necessary to pay an extravagant hourly rate for a menial task. I understand the value of a job well done...When every 5th grader gets an award for not failing an exam, the exceptional and mediocre are placed in the same basket.

I tip people when they have helped me, performed a service above expectations, or made an accommodation for my circumstances. If the dealership charges $300 for an oil change...are you going to tip the service department above that? What if they consider $300 the standard fee, and are offended when you don't tip them.

I'm happy to reward excellence (although my profession is rarely on the receiving end.) However, when you elevate everyone's expectation of reward, it becomes the norm. And while I understand the concept of establishing a relationship with a dealer, a $300/hr labor rate is extravagant in my eyes.

 

Hi Folks,
We wanted to clarify some misinformation. Tomorrow (April 24th, 2010), we're having a Service Clinic.........this includes a FREE 27 point inspection of any Porsche, Audi, or VW with an appointment. In addition, these services will be offered at the Service Clinic:

• Oil Change
• Pollen Filter Change
• Brake Flush

The above services are provided with no labor charges during this event. Yes, all parts would have to be purchased through us, taxes and shop supplies will still apply. Our web pricing on parts does not apply.........as listed on our site, our web prices are only for web purchases. Either way you look at it, it's a pretty good deal on a factory oil change.

Our customers can speak with our factory certified technicians, and personally inspect their car while on the lift. If there are any issues or problems, a technician will inform the owner. They can choose to complete any additional services or repairs with us if they choose. No repairs will be completed at this event, it's up to the consumer to schedule a repair or installation at a later date. This is nothing new, many other dealers have Service Clinics. Bait & switch?? Really guys?? C'mon now.

Lunch and a courtesy car wash are included, and many items in our parts boutique will be on special for the day. So far it appears that we're booked solid, not sure if they're taking any more appointments.

Jiffy Lube has oil changes for $19.95, right? Good luck with that!