Many people are surprised to learn the first automobile was invented in Germany around 1885. While vehicle design and efficiency have come a long way since then, drivers still have auto repair obligations to consider.
Preventive maintenance is crucial, and you should regularly take your car to a mechanic for an oil change. But before you head to a local auto repair shop, you must learn how to prepare for an oil change. Let’s explore the key things to know.
Clean Your Vehicle
As a courtesy to your technician, don’t arrive at an auto repair shop with a filthy vehicle. Both the exterior and interior of your car should be reasonably clean. The technician will need to briefly open your driver’s side door to pull the hood release latch.
Nobody wants to see a car full of trash, clutter, or general messiness. While there aren’t consequences for bringing a dirty car to a shop, there’s no reason to make somebody’s job unpleasant.
Voice Your Concerns
Tell your technician about concerns you have with your vehicle’s engine. For example, you may have noticed that you hear rattling or knocking while driving.
You might also have found your engine’s oil level to be uncharacteristically low. Telling them about issues like these could help them find underlying problems.
Go Sooner than Later
Car manuals often declare people should change their oil every X number of miles or X number of months. These values will vary depending on your vehicle’s make and model.
It’s best to avoid going too far past these numbers, though. To clarify, let’s assume that your manual says you should change your car every 5,000 miles or every 6 months.
If your car is currently at 4,900 miles, but it’s only been 4 months since your last oil change, it’s better to take it in at that point than wait. This will keep your engine in great condition and improve vehicle efficiency.
Choosing an Auto Repair Shop
There are often plenty of local auto shops to choose from. Making a decision can be overwhelming at first.
Knowing where to get an oil change is easier than it seems. Check their past reputation to see what other customers have to say.
Only choose a local business with ample positive feedback. Consider the other services they offer, as well. Going to a shop that handles brake repair, for example, allows you to tackle multiple jobs at once.
Consider their level of experience before making your decision. Shops with inexperienced technicians won’t always fall short of your goals.
However, they’ll be less likely to reach them. It’s best to choose a shop that’s been around for decades.
Prepare for Your Oil Change Appropriately
Always prepare for your oil change before your auto repair service appointment. From here, everything will go as planned. Be sure to find a reputable shop to keep your car running smoothly.
At RNS Service in Orrville, OH, our team of master technicians strive to exceed the needs of each customer. We use only the best parts and offer a satisfaction guarantee.
With over 100 years of combined experience, there isn’t a problem we can’t solve. Schedule your service today to learn more.
Owen Stoller is a third-generation member of the Stoller family and serves as a Service Advisor at RNS Service in Orrville, Ohio. Carrying on a family tradition that began in 1977, Owen is committed to helping customers make informed decisions about their vehicles through honest communication, technical expertise, and a genuine commitment to their safety.
With five years of professional automotive experience, Owen has earned Master ASE Certification, including the prestigious ASE C1 Service Consultant certification. His combination of technical knowledge and customer service expertise allows him to bridge the gap between the repair shop and the vehicle owner, ensuring every customer understands their vehicle's needs and can make confident maintenance and repair decisions.
Owen earned his bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management from The University of Akron, bringing a strong foundation in operations, organization, and problem-solving to the family business. He is passionate about continuous learning and regularly studies leadership to better serve both the RNS Service team and the customers who rely on them.
As the grandson of RNS Service founder Bob Stoller and the son of Jeff Stoller, Owen is proud to continue the values that have defined the business for nearly 50 years: integrity, quality workmanship, and treating every customer like family. He believes that auto repair is about more than fixing vehicles—it's about building lasting relationships based on trust and helping keep families safe on the road.
Outside the shop, Owen has been married to his wife, Carissa, for five years, and together they are raising their three children, Tucker, Wesley, and their youngest. Family life keeps him busy, whether he's hobby farming, making maple syrup, dreaming up new projects and ideas, or simply spending time with his children. Those same values of hard work, stewardship, and community continue to shape the way he serves customers every day at RNS Service.