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A diesel oil change at Route 66 Auto Repair in Upland uses oil rated for diesel engines, in the volume your engine holds, with a new filter. Diesel oil carries more soot and has to protect a turbo and a high-pressure fuel system. Our ASE-certified technicians also drain the water separator and look for leaks, so the visit doubles as a quick health check.
How is a diesel oil change different?
Diesel engines hold more oil than most gas engines, and the oil works harder. Combustion soot ends up in the crankcase, and the oil has to hold it in suspension so it does not wear bearings and cams. Diesel-rated oils carry their own service category on the bottle, and many trucks with particulate filters require a low-ash formula. We match the category and viscosity to your owner's manual.
The filter is larger too, and some engines use a cartridge in a housing with seals that must be replaced every time.
When is a diesel oil change due?
- The oil life monitor or service message says so
- The maker's interval for your type of use has been reached
- Heavy towing, idling or dusty work since the last change
- Oil level rising on the dipstick, which can mean fuel dilution and needs a look
Our diesel oil change process
Step 1: Confirm the spec
We look up the oil category, viscosity and capacity for your engine.
Step 2: Drain and inspect
Old oil is drained and checked for fuel smell, coolant tint or metal.
Step 3: Filter and refill
A new filter or cartridge with fresh seals goes in, then the correct volume of oil.
Step 4: Quick checks
The water separator is drained, and we look for leaks, worn belts and loose boost clamps.
Step 5: Reset and record
The service reminder is reset and your mileage recorded.
What's included in a diesel oil change
Included on the work order
- 01Diesel-rated oil to your maker's spec
- 02New oil filter or cartridge with seals
- 03Drain plug washer as needed
- 04Water separator drain
- 05Underhood leak and belt check
- 06Service reminder reset
Which findings are need-now or need-later?
Need now: call
- Coolant or heavy fuel smell in the drained oil
- Metal particles in the oil or on the drain plug
Need later: book
- Minor seepage at a valve cover
- An air filter nearing its restriction limit
How pricing and timing work
Oil volume and the oil your maker requires set most of the price, so a diesel oil change costs more than a typical car's. Many owners wait for it when the board allows; call before you drive over. AAA members save 10% on parts and labor, up to $75.
Aftercare
Check the level after a day of driving. For a deeper look at oil condition, see engine oil analysis. Pair this visit with diesel fuel filter replacement when it is due, and read about the filter itself on diesel engine oil filter replacement.
Frequently asked questions
How often should a diesel oil change be done?
Follow your owner's manual, using the severe-service schedule if you tow, idle a lot or work in dust. The oil life monitor on many trucks accounts for some of that.
Can I use regular motor oil in my diesel?
Use oil that carries the diesel service category your maker lists. Many trucks with particulate filters also need a low-ash oil.
Why is my diesel oil black right after a change?
Soot left in the engine mixes with fresh oil quickly. Dark oil is normal on a diesel; thin, fuel-smelling oil is not.