Since the car tomm is going to be 3 months old and I have 3894 miles on it i'm taking it to the dealer for my first oil change. Is it better to take the car normally to the dealer for oil changes or the local shops? While my 2000 Ford Focus was under warranty i always brought it into the dealer for service and had no problems major that is. Just the usualy ware n tear.

 

I got a loyalty coupon for free oil change from the dealer and a card for 15% off all future service... guess where I'm taking mine?

 

The dealership. They do a quick inspection along with the first oil change. I got $9.95 oil changes for the life of my HHR from the dealership I purchased it from.

 

Why cant I every get lucky. $21.95 for my oil change from the dealer.

 

Even at $21.95 the dealer oil change is a good idea the first year or so. Only the dealer will be aware of any TSB's (Technical Service Bulletins), pertaining the the HHR (this includes recalls, upgrades, failing parts, etc.), every time you take a new car in always ask the service writer to have them "check it out" just to make sure everything is safe. Sometimes they will replace a part GM recommends action on.

Hope it helps,

 

I would do it myself but for the price I pay the dealer its not worth it. I thought you were suposed to stay with conventional oil during the break in period and then switch to synthetic after the engine is all broken in?

 

I've never used synthetic. Is it worth it?

 

Yes, but you wont feel it in your car. I will switch to synthetic once I start moding my engine. You can expect a small horsepower and torque increase, increased gas milage, and lower exhaust emissions. Also there is less breakdown inside your engine. My favorite synthetic is good old Royal Purple.
See, I don't completely hate purple.

 

I'll have to try it out. Will anything change if I go from synthetic back to normal?

 

No, but once you go synthetic you probably will not want to go back.