This person thinks Take5’s oil changes are too expensive. The internet is divided on whether it’s a deal or they’re taking advantage of consumers.
Take5 Oil Change Causes Controversy
In a trending video with more than 143,000 views, content creator and director Danisha Harris (@dwetter) shared the experience she just had at her local Take5.
It seems Harris went in for an oil change and was surprised by the proactive customer service after they offered her a bottle of water. (We doubt your local mechanic is doing that.)
“When they give you a water bottle to ne mice then you look at the prices and see why they so nice,” Harris wrote in the on-screen caption.
As she zoomed in on the prices, she found the following:
Economy: $49.99
Premium: $85.99 for a car under 75,000 miles, $87.99 if over 75,000 miles
Advanced full synthetic: $101.99 for a car under 75,000 miles, $103.99 if over 75,000 miles
Mobil1 advanced full synthetic: $118.99 for a car under 75,000 miles, $120.99 if over 75,000 miles
And if you want an extra quart, it’ll cost you $7.99 to $13.99, depending on the quality level.
“Now hold up now? You trying to butter me up for the real pain,” Harris said in the caption.
What Is Take 5 Oil Change?
Take 5 is essentially the “drive-through” version of oil changes—one of the pioneers of the stay‑in‑your‑car model that started in 1996, its website reads. You pull in, stay in your seat, and the mechanic swaps your oil in around 10 minutes or less (or so it advertises).
You don’t need an appointment, which is convenient for many people. They handle draining old oil, replacing the filter, topping off with new oil, and even checking your fluids and wipers.
But the convenience comes with a price.
Take5 tends to run a bit higher on cost compared to budget chains, largely because it uses premium oils and filters, has certified techs, and offers added services like tire pressure checks and air filter inspections, Mechanic Times reported. It also has overhead costs built in from being a national franchise.
How Much Should You Pay For an Oil Change?
Most drivers can expect to pay anywhere from $30 to $125 for an oil change, depending on a few key factors.
That range might sound wide, but here’s why, according to Kelley Blue Book and AutoZone:
Type of oil matters. Synthetic oil is more expensive than conventional, but it also lasts longer and performs better in extreme temperatures. Some cars require synthetic or high-mileage blends, which will bump up the cost.
Your car isn’t just like every other car. Some engines hold more oil, need special filters, or demand specific formulations—all of which can increase the price.
Location, location, location. Labor costs vary by region. Getting your oil changed in NYC or San Francisco is likely going to cost more than in a smaller city or town.
What’s bundled in. Many shops offer package deals that include things like fluid top-offs, tire rotations, or inspections. That’s convenient, but it’s also how your $50 oil change turns into $90.
How Often Should You Get an Oil Change?
If you’re driving a modern car with synthetic oil, you probably only need an oil change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, according to AutoZone.
That usually works out to two to three oil changes per year for the average driver. Always check your owner’s manual, as some manufacturers recommend different intervals.
Commenters React
“It’s a set up and distraction all in one,” a top comment read.
“Worked at Take5. Let me tell you what in the year and a half working prices went up 5 times and it got so ridiculous. I handed out coupons left and right because I didn’t think it was fair,” a person said.
“Baby for them prices I want some Fiji water tf,” another wrote.
“We got da best prices what yall mean,” a commenter added.
Motor1 reached out to Harris for comment via email and Instagram direct message and to Take 5 via email.
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