A proper oil change begins with choosing the right oil — not draining the old one
Engine oil lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, carries away heat and protects internal engine components from premature wear. Its protective properties gradually deteriorate over time, so it should be changed at the intervals and to the specifications set by the vehicle manufacturer.
The correct oil-change interval depends on the vehicle model, engine type, mileage and operating conditions. Frequent short journeys, urban driving, cold starts and heavy loads can shorten the oil’s service life.
At Mr.Car, we select engine oil individually for each vehicle, taking into account the manufacturer’s approvals and technical requirements, engine type, exhaust after-treatment system and correct oil capacity. Where necessary, we use the VIN to confirm the correct specification.
As part of the service, we change the engine oil and filters, check the oil level and for leaks, reset the service interval and attach a service sticker showing the date and mileage of the next oil change. This helps keep the engine running reliably and the vehicle serviced in accordance with the manufacturer’s requirements.
Red oil-pressure warning light on? Stop the engine immediately
A red oil-pressure warning light is not a routine service reminder. Pull over safely, switch off the engine and check the engine-oil level as instructed in the owner’s manual.
If the oil level is correct but the warning light remains on, or if you hear unusual engine noise, do not continue driving. Running an engine with insufficient oil pressure can cause serious damage. The fault must be diagnosed; this is not a case for a routine oil change.
Learn more about engine diagnostics and repair →
Labour prices
Not sure which service option is right for your car? Send us the registration number or VIN and we will select the correct oil, filters and other consumables and provide an estimate in advance.
| Service | Price |
| Engine oil and oil filter change |
€50 |
| Engine oil change with oil, air, cabin and fuel filter replacement |
€70 |
| Service using customer-supplied oil and filters (subject to a compatibility check) |
+€5/hour |
Prices shown cover labour only. Engine oil, filters and other consumables are charged separately. We select the correct oil, filters and consumables for each vehicle in accordance with the manufacturer’s requirements and approvals.
If we identify any additional faults or find that further work is required during the service, we will contact you and agree any additional work before it is carried out.
Matched to manufacturer requirements
We select the engine oil, filters and other consumables to meet the vehicle manufacturer’s approvals and technical requirements, rather than relying on viscosity grade alone.
Costs agreed in advance
Before the service begins, we agree the scope of work and the cost of labour and materials. We carry out any additional work only with your approval.
Final checks
After the oil change, we check the engine oil level and make sure the lubrication system is leak-free and operating correctly.
Service reminder and sticker
After the service, we reset the service indicator and fit a service sticker showing the date and mileage when the next oil change is due.
Customer-supplied materials
Before using any engine oil, filters or other consumables supplied by the customer, we verify the relevant manufacturer approvals, compatibility and suitability for the specific vehicle.
Responsible recycling
Used engine oil and filters are sent for specialist recycling in line with current environmental requirements.
Why timely oil and filter changes matter
Why engine oil loses its protective properties
While the engine is running, the oil is exposed to high temperatures, combustion by-products, moisture and microscopic wear particles. Its protective properties gradually deteriorate, so the oil-change interval is determined not only by mileage but also by time and the vehicle’s operating conditions.
Changing the engine oil does not rectify mechanical engine faults. If the oil level drops rapidly, the engine develops unusual noises or emits smoke, or there is a burning smell, the underlying cause must be diagnosed first.
What counts as severe operating conditions
Urban driving
- Short journeys without the engine reaching full operating temperature
- Stop-start traffic and extended idling
- Frequent cold starts
Higher loads
- Towing a trailer or carrying heavy loads
- Driving on dusty roads
- Operating in high ambient temperatures
Seasonal conditions
- Low temperatures and sharp temperature fluctuations
- Infrequent use and long periods of inactivity
- High engine hours relative to mileage
Intensive use
- Using the vehicle for taxi or delivery work
- Running the engine continuously for extended periods
- Regular driving at high speeds
Why manufacturer approvals matter
SAE viscosity is only one characteristic of an engine oil. Selection also takes into account the relevant manufacturer approvals and technical requirements, as well as the engine’s design. Even oils with the same viscosity can have different properties and be intended for different types of engine.
If oil has to be topped up in an emergency, a compatible engine oil should be used. During scheduled servicing, the oil should fully meet the vehicle manufacturer’s requirements.
Which filters are replaced with the engine oil
The oil filter is replaced at every engine oil change. The engine air filter, cabin filter and fuel filter have their own service intervals and are replaced in accordance with the vehicle manufacturer’s service schedule.
The diesel particulate filter (DPF) is not a routine service item. For vehicles fitted with a DPF, the engine oil must carry the relevant manufacturer approval and meet the requirements of the exhaust after-treatment system.