Going for my first Oil Change

[FAST RS]

I have 2500 trouble free miles on my car and am going later this week for an oil change. From what I read the car takes dyno oil, is it worth it to upgrade to synthetic?

[Cuda Cliff]

I have had my Challenger for a year now..... and have yet to change my OIL!!

I knew that I was forgetting something!!

[Dynamo]

I switched to synthetic (Pennzoil Platinum) at my first oil change at 4000 miles. I've changed it every 4000 miles since (15000 miles now) and haven't had any problems. As for is it worth it, I'm sure any quality oil (dyno or synthetic) would be fine as long as you stuck with a regular maintenance routine with a quality filter.

I spend a fair amount of time in stop & go traffic so I wanted and am willing to pay for the extra protection that synthetic offers regardless if my R/T really needed it or not. The owner's manual says you may use synthetics as long it meets the quality requirements and recommended maintenance intervals are met.

[FAST RS]

I am curious how much it is going to run at the dealer. I have free oil changes for a year but I know that does not include synthetic. I do change my oil on all my cars at 2500 - 3000 miles, just an old habit I guess. Did you notice any increase in your MPG?

[Dynamo]

I have no idea what a dealer would charge. Seven quarts of Pennzoil Platinum and a Mopar oil filter costs me ~$48 at Walmart.

I didn't notice any difference in fuel economy since switching.

[Yahooligan]

Free oil changes...you get what you pay for, IMO. My local dealer has screwed up more often than not so I do as much as I can myself. Yes, they even screwed up an oil change. I use Mobil 1 and a Mopar filter and change it myself about every 6000 miles. If you're particular about your cars then it's good to get under there yourself and take a look around instead of assuming the oil change lackey knows what they're looking at or for.

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[FAST RS]

I agree, I love working on my cars but my current living situation does not permit me to work on them. I can do some stuff but I am not allowed to change oil, jackup the car etc. I actually have a issue with a local lube shop that stripped the drain plug on my 68 Firebird that I have to take in next week to show the DM.

[Yahooligan]

Originally Posted by FAST RS

I agree, I love working on my cars but my current living situation does not permit me to work on them. I can do some stuff but I am not allowed to change oil, jackup the car etc. I actually have a issue with a local lube shop that stripped the drain plug on my 68 Firebird that I have to take in next week to show the DM.

There is or used to be a place over in Huntington Beach called "Liftwerkes" where you could pay for lift/bay time and tools for a reasonable price, not sure if they're still around or not. I think the closest such place to me is in Escondido.

DIY Garage - Full Service or Do It Yourself Auto Repair - Escondido CA

Wouldn't be the cheapest way to do your own oil changes, but it's good to know such places exist if you need or want to do your own work or projects that require a lift.

[jaelliott]

Along the lines of what Yahooligan mentions, if you have access to a military installation they usually have hobby shops or auto centers with tool, lifts, and on duty mechanics to help you out. Prices are usually really inexpensive.

[deranged]

Originally Posted by FAST RS

I love working on my cars

I am not allowed to change oil, jackup the car etc.

local lube shop that stripped the drain plug on my 68 Firebird

I suggest finding a way around these factors.

If you intend on keeping your Challenger forever then yes, switch to synthetic like many of us have done.

If you are a member of the flavor of the month club then, by all means use the dino oil.