The Importance of Fluid Checks During Oil Changes: Why Dealerships Are Duty-Bound

When you bring your vehicle in for an oil change, you expect a comprehensive service that ensures your vehicle runs smoothly and safely. One of the essential steps in this process is the checking and, if necessary, top-up of fluids. However, some dealerships might bypass this step in an attempt to save costs. Is it okay to trust them? Absolutely not. Ensuring your vehicle's fluids are properly checked and maintained is crucial for your safety and the longevity of your vehicle.

Why Fluid Checks Are Crucial During an Oil Change

When a dealership performs an oil change, they are not just changing the oil; they are also performing a series of checks to ensure your vehicle is in good working condition. These checks include:

Draining the old oil from the engine Installing a new oil filter Adding the correct amount of oil to the engine Starting the engine to check for oil leaks and engine oil pressure Checking the oil level in the engine to ensure it is at the correct level

Each of these steps is crucial and plays a significant role in maintaining the performance and longevity of your vehicle. Skipping any of these steps could lead to serious issues down the line, potentially resulting in costly repairs or even a safety hazard.

Dealership Profits Depend on Thorough Maintenance Services

Dealerships make significant profits from providing comprehensive maintenance services. If the dealership does not check the oil or perform the other steps in routine maintenance, they are either missing out on potential revenue or risking customer satisfaction and trust. There is no law that dealerships must check fluids during an oil change, but failing to do so can quickly lead to declining business.

Independent studies and professional associations in the automotive industry often recommend a thorough maintenance routine that includes fluid checks. This routine is not only beneficial for the vehicle but also financially advantageous for the dealership. Even if fluid checks are not explicitly charged, most reputable dealerships include them as a standard part of their service to retain customers and establish a reputation for excellence.

The Role of Advisors and Technicians in Maintaining Fluid Levels

Often, fluid checks are performed by factory-trained technicians rather than being a separate, charged item. These checks are included as part of the overall service to customers and serve multiple purposes:

Identification of Issues: Low brake fluid or coolant can indicate the need for brake or cooling system work, allowing issues to be addressed promptly. Preventative Maintenance: Monitoring fluid levels can help prevent overheating and prolong the life of your vehicle. Customer Trust: Performing these checks as part of routine service builds trust and ensures that customers feel heard and valued.

Moreover, in many countries, including the United States, car ownership has evolved, and many people are either inexperienced with maintenance or choose not to perform it themselves. This trend, combined with the societal tendency to sue perceived wrongdoers, makes it prudent for dealerships to perform these checks to avoid potential liability and dissatisfaction.

What to Do If Fluid Checks Are Not Performed

If you are at a dealership and the fluid checks are not performed, there are several actions you can take:

Speak to an Advisor: Advisors act as the dealership's intermediary between the customer and the technician. By speaking to an advisor, you can voice your concerns and request that the fluid checks be performed. Documentation: Keep a record of the service performed and any discussions with dealership staff. This documentation can be useful for resolving any issues that may arise. Review with Management: In quality shops with a good reputation, the technician may need to discuss the situation with management. This ensures that the issue is addressed and not just overlooked.

By taking these steps, you can ensure that your vehicle receives the necessary maintenance to keep it both safe and reliable.

Conclusion

Regular fluid checks are an essential part of maintaining your vehicle's performance and safety. While there is no legal requirement for dealerships to perform these checks during an oil change, doing so is crucial for financial and reputational reasons. By taking an active role in the maintenance of your vehicle and speaking up if you feel your rights are being compromised, you can ensure that your vehicle receives the best possible care.