Dealer vs. owner oil changes -- void warranty?

93toy · 2013-03-15T18:18:56+00:00

So here's the story. I've heard WAY to many horror stories of oil changes gone wrong and I have very little faith in ANYONE working on my vehicles. No one will work on your vehicle with the same care and attention to detail as you will, they have no vested interest. I have never had anyone change my oil in my life. In fact, the only vehicle maintenance I have ever had done for me was a timing belt/water pump/idler pulley change I had done by a good friend (who also happens to be a mechanic at a Toyota dealer and does work on the side at his home) who I trust 100%. That being said, when we picked up our 2013 Trail, we went through the process with out salesman, but when he turned us over to the lady who explained all of the vehicle features, warranty info, etc, she mentioned the two free oil changes we would be given. Nothing against this lady personally (we all know dealership employees are not the most well informed), but here was my question and her response. Me: "I appreciate the offer for the oil changes, but I usually handle routine maintenance myself in the garage. I assume this would be like the warranty on my 370Z? As long as I document my oil changes with a log of mileage and receipts from materials purchased it will satisfy the warranty requirements should there ever be a problem with the motor correct?" Friendly Toyota lady: "No. Oil changes must be performed by the dealer or an ASE certified mechanic, otherwise the warranty is void, Toyota won't cover it." I haven't read all of the warranty documentation (YET!), but this can't be right! So because I want to change my own oil I bought a $40K vehicle with no warranty! What are your thoughts/experiences? I've seen way to many oil all over the body, spilled under the hood, filter hasn't been touched situations first hand. Not to mention threads with "they broke parts/stripped threads, didn't want to remove skidplate so they sucked it out the dipstick tube" etc. Any input would be appreciated.

Thread starter 93toy
Start date Mar 15, 2013

CutthroatSlam

Senior Member

Nov 25, 2025

Pass on the oil changes. They should give you a free set (or two) of wipers instead, or at least that’s what they did for us.

Our 2014 4Runner currently has 399K miles and is due for a 5K oil change at 400K. In addition, I will be replacing upper and lower control arms as they are original. It’s just what I do.