The Cheapest Place to Buy Motor Oil

You must have a good idea about the price of motor oil if you own a car. The product is not cheap; especially if you choose to go for a brand name. Besides, some cars consume more oil than others, and the same applies to the old vehicles

So, if you are the unlucky owner of a vehicle that consumes oil like crazy, you must want to know some tips on how to save on motor fuel purchase.

The Places to Buy Motor Oil

You can purchase it both online and offline. Many big-box retailers such as Costco, Sears, Walmart, etc. sell them and you can also order online. 

The auto parts stores also sell motor oil, and it is readily available at the service stations. In fact, many convenience stores and corner drug stores keep some of the most common types of motor oil.

motor oil
You can purchase motor oil both online and offline. (Photo: Anycar)

The Cheapest Place to Buy Motor Oil

The product is available in many stores and service stations, but not all of them offer a reasonable price. However, buying from some particular places will help you to save some bucks. Let’s check out:

Big-Box Retailers

Retail giants like Walmart, Target, Costco, etc. sell motor oil at reasonable prices. You will often find discounts and wholesale prices on brand-name products such as Mobil 1, Castrol, Pennzoil, and others in those stores.

However, try to buy the products offline. Ordering online will require you to pay a high shipping cost because oil is a weighty product. 

You may have to pay more than double the original price for this reason. Nevertheless, some retailers like Kmart offer free shipping. So, choose to shop online only if you find any such deal.

Wholesale Shopping Clubs

Some retail companies offer products at wholesale prices to the members of their exclusive clubs. They have a wide selection of oil products from renowned brands and sell them at reasonable prices.

So, if you are a regular shopper, buy a membership of such a club and save on your purchases.

motor oil
Some retail companies offer products at wholesale prices for exclusive members. (Photo: Nairaland Forum)

Specialty Oil Purchases

Many car owners these days use special synthetic oils for their vehicles. There are authorized dealers for selling such products. Instead of buying these products from any store or station, make the purchase from a licensed seller to get the best price.

DIY motor oil change is another way to save money on this product. Many people buy oil in gallons and change it in their home garage to save on the service station costs. However, you should not do it if you don’t have any experience in changing engine oil.

FAQs

  1. Is it cheaper to buy motor oil online or in-store?

Buying motor oil online can sometimes be cheaper due to discounts, promotions, and the ability to compare prices easily. 

However, consider shipping costs, and check if any local stores have sales or promotions that could make in-store purchases more affordable.

  1. Are there any specific times of the year when motor oil is cheaper?

Motor oil prices may fluctuate seasonally, with some discounts during automotive maintenance events like “oil change specials” in the spring or fall. Also, keep an eye out for Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals.

  1. Are generic or store-brand motor oils cheaper than well-known brands?

Generic or store-brand motor oils are often more affordable than well-known brands. However, the quality may vary, so it’s essential to read product reviews and ensure the oil meets your vehicle’s specifications.

  1. Can I find discounted motor oil at warehouse clubs or bulk stores?

Yes, warehouse clubs and bulk stores sometimes offer motor oil at discounted prices when purchased in larger quantities. Consider purchasing in bulk if you have multiple vehicles or can store the oil properly.

  1. Are there loyalty programs or rewards cards that can help me save on motor oil purchases?

Some automotive stores offer loyalty programs or rewards cards that provide discounts, cashback, or special promotions for frequent customers. Signing up for these programs can help you save money over time.

  1. How can I compare prices to find the cheapest motor oil?

To compare prices effectively, you can use online shopping websites, price comparison tools, or visit multiple local stores. Be sure to factor in any additional costs, such as shipping fees or taxes, when comparing prices.

  1. Is it safe to buy discounted motor oil that is close to its expiration date?

It’s generally safe to buy motor oil close to its expiration date if it meets your vehicle’s requirements.

Motor oil usually remains effective for some time after the expiration date, but it’s essential to store it properly and check for any signs of deterioration before use.

  1. Can I negotiate the price of motor oil at a store?

While some stores may be open to negotiation, it’s not a common practice in most retail or automotive supply shops. However, it doesn’t hurt to ask if they have any ongoing promotions or discounts available.

  1. Are there any government assistance programs or initiatives that offer affordable motor oil to low-income individuals?

In some regions, there may be government programs or initiatives that provide assistance to low-income individuals for essential automotive maintenance, including motor oil changes.

Check with your local government or social services to see if such programs exist in your area.

Check out this video from Ford Boss Me to know what’s the best cheap oils to buy!

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the cheapest place to buy motor oil requires careful consideration of various factors. While price is an important factor, it should not be the sole determining factor when making your purchase.

It’s essential to balance cost savings with the quality and reliability of the motor oil to ensure that your vehicle’s engine performs optimally and remains well-protected.