Valvoline Instant Oil Change

Gave this one two chances, that’s it. Understood would pay more for the convenience of drive in without appointment, and while the staff was friendly enough, that really just masks an aggressive up-​sell effort. The first time the attendant had a bad attitude when I did trade up enough and then told me I was risking my warranty by not upgrading further (which I know is not true). The second time we waited 45 mins in the bay on a not particularly busy day while the staff did not seem particularly motivated to get the work done. I complained on line about the aggressive up sell … nothing. I’ll try somewhere else from now on.

I’ve been here a few times for last minute oil changes at different times each visit. They’re either busy or slow — and it’s MUCH better to show up on a slow day (process is much faster). The prices are a little steep, but you’re paying for convenience. Everyone I’ve spoken with has always been nice and accommodating.
At my last visit there was an issue with the oil I wanted being in-​stock (the premium high mileage synthetic — not sure of the exact name) and they filled my car with another oil for me so I could come back later in the day to get the oil I actually wanted. It ended up being much more of a process than I thought, but I felt worse for the workers. They went above and beyond to make sure I got the oil I originally wanted, and I really appreciated it, but it would have been better on them and me if it had never happened.
I might start filling my own oil up to avoid the steep prices, but if I end up wanting/​needing someone else to do it, I’ll definitely come here.

Before I begin I should note that I drive a 2004 Toyota prius. When I went in I had one headlight out, but to replace a headlight for a prius is complicated at best. Earlier in the day I went to the Toyota dealership in Prince Frederick and they told me replacing the light would cost $ 150 plus the cost of the light bulb ($ 100-​$ 200). I went into valvoline for oil change, not expecting much else. Not only did they volunteer to replace the light without me asking them to, they also spent almost two hours working on it. When they finally got the new light in, there was no charge because I bought the bulb else where. Great service, super friendly, and I saved a bunch of money.

Friendly and quick service. The prices are higher than you’d pay at a local mechanic, but the convenience is definitely worth it.

Always great service! Everyone seems to be eager to help. I also like that they check the minor things that could lead to big things. Among all, definitely saves you time rather than going to the dealer or repair shop.

For years, I was always hesitant to go to one of these instant oil change places. After having one too many experiences with my local car dealership unable to schedule me at a convienient time or when I get there having to wait for a really long time in a waiting area surrounded be stale doughnuts and Sesame Street on the tv, I decided it was time for a change. I tried the Valvoline in Dunkirk and was impressed from start to finish. I tend to go in the afternoon and I rarely have more than 1 person ahead of me. In fact, most of the time I can pull right in. The technicians are very friendly and took the time to explain everything they are doing. The actual process was very quick – while I never timed it, it feels around 10 minutes or so on average– and even when they swap out an air filter or change a part, it seems I am still in an out. The basic package Valvoline offers costs me less than what I paid at the dealership. I usually «upgrade» to a Next generation oil and that package loses some of the value, but is still competitive. I get coupons in the mail every few months that seem to offset any price difference. Besides, if money was the most important factor, I would change the oil myself. I have been there probably 7 or 8 times and each time has been stellar.