Valvoline Instant Oil Change

Love this place.
I always use some sort of coupon when I come here. The service is great. They would recommend me to check certain things but never force or talk my ears off re: their services.
Quick in and out. Everyone is happy! I always come back.

They were nice, and they were fast, and it was indeed convenient not to have to get out of my car, but man was I just overcharged. $ 62 for synthetic blend? What was I thinking??? Smart of them not to advertise their prices; once they have you in the bay, you’re that much more likely to go with the flow. (Also, not to self: change your own air filters, because that takes like ten seconds and no tools.) Given the prices, I can’t possibly recommend them to anyone not made of money.

I can’t speak to VIOC in general, just to this specific location. My experience here has been mostly positive. I appreciate that I don’t need an appointment and can just get in and out in under 20 minutes, depending on how busy they are. I’ve received consistent oil change service from this place, and in my opinion, it’s worth paying a few extra dollars for the convenience. However, I do have a few tips (see below).
One time I pulled in to VIOC on Main St. because one of my belts was squealing, and on my previous oil change, they’d pointed out that my serpentine belt should be replaced soon, since it had some tiny cracks in it. I told them upfront that I wasn’t yet due for an oil change, but I thought maybe I needed the serpentine belt replaced. An older Latino man took a quick peek under the hood and told me that I needed to pull my car around to the other garage on the side of the main building for him to look. I’d done my research and called around for a few quotes, so I knew the price of a new belt for my 2001 Camry was around $ 99, and I knew that this was one of those repairs that I didn’t have the tools to do myself. VIOC quoted me $ 79 when I’d called, so I was prepared to have to fork that over. Instead, the employee told me that the belt wasn’t really in that bad condition, that it just needed to be tightened, not replaced yet. I told him, «Great, let’s do it!» and 5 – 10 minutes later, it was all set, and the whole time I remained in my car. I asked how much, and he waived me off, saying it was no problem. I told him I would likely be back when it was time to actually replace the belt. That was over 6 months ago, and my car and the belt are still going strong.
Tips for visiting this VIOC:
+ Bring a coupon, either from Unilocal!,the Valvoline website, or those annoying weekly circulars that come in the mail. It’s totally worth the trouble to save $ 10 or more dollars. Their prices without a coupon are expensive, even with the convenience factor.
+ As soon as you pull in, tell them you’re there for an oil change and that’s it. Keep in mind that it’s their job to run through a service checklist based on the mileage of your vehicle, but if you tell them upfront that you just want the oil change, they usually don’t push things. They might tell you what their computer recommends, but you can always just say, «Maybe next time.»
+ Sign up for their emails, since they often have special sale days on oil changes or other services. You can also get your receipt emailed to you (great for record keeping) instead of printed, just tell them when you check out.
+ They are supposed to do a check of your lights, tire pressure, wiper blades, serpentine belt, and air filter as well as fluids: transmission, power steering, coolant, windshield washer. I’m not sure what they do/don’t actually check each time, or if they just click the check box on the computer that they’ve «checked» it. I’ve only ever seen them top off the windshield washer fluid, not sure about the others. They tried to sell me wiper blades once when I knew I really needed it, but not otherwise. Point being, if you want something checked, make sure you specifically mention it so you can be sure they do check it.
To summarize:
+ Convenient and worth the price if you need an oil change, but only if you have a coupon
+ Be upfront and confident in your request for service and don’t let them up-​sell you or pressure you if all you want is an oil change.
+ Don’t assume they’re going to rip you off; they’re just following management’s instructions for selling. Most employees are very nice and reasonable.

I go here in cases where I really need an oil change, but don’t want the hassle of going to my dealer.
It gets a bonus star for one basic thing: they are consistently fast and convenient.
However, the rest is why I won’t come back (I’ve gone 3 times).
First, they are expensive. Realllllly expensive. As in, about twice the price my dealership charges.
Second, they don’t just try to upsell you, they very very obviously just upsell you based on some checklist they have. I change my own airfilter since it’s so easy and cheap to do. They had the gall to show me a brand new airfilter while saying «we strongly recommend you replace this». They do not easily take no for an answer, so you’ll have to say no 3 or 4 times. I eventually had to be a bit rude back to get him to stop («but you really need your steering fluid flushed or you could lose control of your car!» um, I’ve checked my owners manual and I do not need this for another 20k miles). Actually, even when I declined to give my email address or other personal details they argued.
My car has an automatic oil light that goes on based on mileage, not actual need. They had no idea how to reset it. I figured it out on my own and this is a pretty ubiquitous thing it turns out. I think they just felt like being lazy.
They do not top off any fluids. Not sure if they promise to, but most places will, and again, at half the cost.
Also, small pet peeve, but even after getting the synthetic oil my car requires, they put the mileage of 3k miles as my next scheduled change (again, according to my user manual it’s every 7500).

Great experience here! Everyone was very kind and helpful. I especially appreciated Natalie taking the time to explain a few things to me. It is so refreshing to see woman working in this industry! I would recommend this place to anyone looking for excellent and efficient service!

This review is only for the most recent experience I had with them. I pulled in for my normal oil change. Everybody’s doing their normal inspections and then all of a sudden a guy comes into the passenger side and starts taking apart the glove compartment. I don’t say anything and let him do his thing (having no idea what it was).
After a few minutes of fumbling and bumbling with the glove compartment, taking things apart, and looking like he didn’t know what he was doing I finally asked him what he was doing. He said he was checking the cabin air filter (2008 Subaru Outback). I said that I have never been asked about the cabin air filter or had anybody step in and start looking at it in the 10+ times I’ve gone to VIOC to get my oil changed over the past three years.
He said his name was John and was the manager and can’t vouch for other VIOC’s, but that checking the cabin air filter is part of VIOC procedure. He said that a lot of these places have young guys that aren’t aware that a 2008 Subaru Outback has a cabin air filter… the person who rang me up supported that statement — that he had only been there two months and didn’t know until recently.
My response: How many Subaru Outbacks roll through VIOC? It’s got to be a lot. So which is it: have I not been getting the full inspection all these times or is the cabin air filter inspection not really part of it? If you drive an older Outback, let me know what you experienced.
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I didn’t get end up getting my cabin air filter looked at. Even if John was aware that 2008 Subaru Outbacks have cabin air filters, and even if he does check them normally as part of VIOC procedure, he sure as hell did not look like he knew what he was doing. When I interrupted his «inspection» (i.e. figuring out how to take the panel out) and asked what he was doing, he asked me if I wanted to get this checked or not… I said I have no idea, I guess not. The oil change was fine; it was quick and easy as usual, but this experience left a sour taste in my mouth.

Very expensive for an oil change but fast. Make sure to find a coupon before getting an oil change! I found a $ 7 coupon and it was still over $ 35. It only took 20 minutes from driving in to leaving though.

I like to go to Valvoline to get my oil change in the winter because it’s freezing and I don’t want to get out of my comfy, warm car. I started going to various locations about three years ago, and had no complaints. Yeah, they try to sell you air filters or windshield wipers, but I politely say no and that’s the end of that.
I recently got my oil change at the Valvoline in Waltham and I’m not sure what was wrong with one of the mechanics that worked there. I was led in, the first mechanic scanned my car, checked my lights, and then asked me what type of oil I wanted. I always use conventional. The mechanic informs me that my manufacturer recommends a synthetic, but it’s up to me what I want to do. I told her I’d stick to conventional. She was fine with my decision. As was the other mechanic who was checking under the hood of my car. But another guy with hair that was almost to his shoulder, was not accepting of my decision, and proceeded to give me a lecture.
I hate being lectured.
He sounds astounded at first that I decided to go with the conventional oil. Then he starts sounding angry with me, like how dare I go against what is recommended. He starts saying how I’m going to «blow-​up» my engine. Then he goes to talk about how I would be violating the terms of my lease if I don’t go with the manufacture’s recommendations. I told him that I own my car, so he went back to half yelling about how I’m going to «blow-​up my engine.» And he goes on about how Valvoline would not be responsible if anything happened to the car, which he assured me would be destroyed.
Meanwhile the other mechanic, who had been checking under the hood of my car, is trying to be extra polite, as a way to counter his crazy co-worker’s behavior. He silently assures me my car will not «blow-​up» and it’ll be fine. Mind you the raving lunatic is still going on about how I’m destroying my car. He is so wrapped up in telling me how stupid I basically am that he’s messed up the transaction and keeps having to refill information on the computer. He finally gets the receipt printed and again tells me that Valvoline will not be responsible for whatever happens to the car.
I’ve had my current car for a little over three years – it’s my second car (same maker and model, just newer). I get my oil changed regularly and take it to my mechanic at the first sign of a problem. This is the first time since I’ve ever owned this type of car that some mechanic has behaved this way regarding the oil that I chose to put in MY car. I understand what the manufacturer recommended – despite what the guy might have thought, I am not a idiot. Ultimately, however, it it my decision and he needed to respect that.
The other two people I dealt with (one was a woman and the other a man of Latin descent) were wonderful. The girl was funny and the guy was super chill and polite. The skinny, long-​ish haired guy needs to take it easy before he gives himself an aneurysm. And telling people that their car is basically a ticking time bomb is not necessarily a good way of pushing them toward spending an extra $ 20 to $ 40 for synthetic oil.

I was discriminated and lied to by the men working at this establishment today. I went in for a quick oil change which I usually go to the dealership for and was told that my car required a high quality oil type and therefore my total would be over $ 60. My car is an older Honda Civic and does not require a specific high level type of oil, as even the dealership never suggested that I use that oil in oil changes for my car. I then went to another dealership where a standard oil change was performed after the mechanic confirmed that my car did not require «semi synthetic oil» as i was told at Valvoline not 15 minutes prior.
I assume this exchange at Valvoline happened because upon asking I did not know the correct term for the type of oil my car takes. I also assume that the attendant at this Valvoline saw a young female and thought to take advantage of her by lying and assuming she did not know much about her car, therefore making more money.
Completely disappointed and appalled at this establishment.

This is where I come to get my oil changed and have been satisfied with their service over the years, and keep coming back. Hours and location are convenient, and I’ve never had a problem with their service. They do try to up-​sell, but it just makes me do my research to see what I really need, and I’m grateful for that push to understand my car better and make informed decisions.
Yesterday my battery died on my car while running errands late Saturday afternoon. I was able to get a jump in a parking lot and headed straight to Valvoline to get the battery evaluated. I pulled into the lot 10 minutes before closing and was worried they might not be able to help me. A team member tried to tell me, yes I needed a new battery, but to come back tomorrow for it. Ha. I pressed and he realized my car might not start tomorrow, so they kept working on it even though that meant I was there past closing. I was so grateful and impressed by the manager’s leadership (Tyrone) to keep his team together and focused on handling the rush of cars coming in last minute. I did get a new battery and was on my way, very thankful for their help!

Grest experience. Friendly staff. Reasonable price. Nice service. Will recommend to friends.

Friendly stuffs! Reasonable price!(with coupon from Unilocal :)) Fast service! If you just want an oil change, definitely come here!

In need of an oil change for a few weeks now, but it’s Sunday afternoon and the kids have fallen asleep in the car. We decide to try Valvoline instead of taking it to the dealer. Best decision today!
The crew at Valvoline were super professional, explained everything and made honest recommendations. They showed us the filters, the dipstick, etc. Best of all, we were in and out in about 15 minutes without the kids waking up! We’ll definitely be getting our oil changed there from now on!

I went here a few weeks ago and had a horrible experience, although not as bad as some other people have had, since my car had no issues after i left. I am guessing Valvoline is paying Unilocal to hide the bad reviews. if you look at the not recommended reviews down the page, you will see many 1 star reviews, and people who shared my bad experience.
anyways, when i drove in i was met by a nice girl, and I told her i wanted a conventional oil change. easy enough, they started working. about 5 minutes later, some ratty looking guy with long hair came up to me and said i needed to get the 79.99 oil change. i think his name was Mike, but I’m not sure. I tell him no, i am getting the conventional. He then goes on to try and scare me into getting the 79.99 change by saying the engine is going to explode and it’s not their fault. I tell him I’ll take my chances. the man could not have been ruder, and i could hear one of the workers trying to tell him something about my car, and him saying «I don’t care.» anyways, don’t be fooled by these good reviews, please make sure you check the non recommened ones as well. obviously, Valvoline upsells on the air filters and everything else they try to offer, but this was a little much.

First time I have been to this valvoline. The staff was fantastic!. They all were professional and answered all of my questions. Gave me coupons and said I can stop in anytime for fluid refills and check my tires. I could go on and on. Lastly great place for service.

$ 39.99 for an oil change, lies, attitudes, bullying, anger, frustration and the anxiety that comes from not trusting the people who worked on your car.
They all lie about all the reasons you need all these expensive extras.
The up-​selling and inappropriate remarks are difficult to not get pissed about.

Excellent service! Super nice and courteous employees. Very professional and proficient at what they do. I was out of there in 15 minutes. They topped off my fluids for me, checked my tires, changed my oil, and sent me on my way. I paid $ 33.93 for the conventional oil, with the $ 7 off coupon here on Unilocal (total would have been $ 40.93).
I will definitely be back in 3000 miles!

Came to Valvoline for my first oil change since my cars manufacture warranty ran out and my days of getting free oil changes were done.
I arrived about 10 minutes after opening and literally rolled my car into the shop. A nice woman took all of my information and started asking me questions about my car. My car is still pretty new and only had about 35K miles on it. She explained everything and prices for oil. I was very happy that there were no hidden fees and that they were very upfront with the prices.
Valvoline does not FORCE you to change or flush certain lines and or fluids, but they do suggest it (again and again and again). I know that the technicians have to do this, but all you need to say as the customer is NO and they respect that.
I was laughing over the things they wanted to do and or change on my car that had only 35K miles on it. Flush my steering fluid already? No, I am good thank you. Rotate my tires? No, I just put new ones on a month ago. Just look at your car’s manual and you will see when they suggest you get these things fix and or changed. Even though there were a lot of suggestions, I just said no to each of them and never felt pressured to buy or do anything.
What is great about this location and Valvoline in general is they always have coupons! They have Unilocal coupons and site wide coupons, do you want to save $ 7 off your next oil change? Hell yes!
Service was great and fast. The guy who changed my oil did have a really hard time putting my skid plate back on my car. Apparently my car has 2−3x more bolts that other cars? I was nervous that it was not going to be put back on correctly or there was going to be an issue, thankfully nothing has happened since they put it back on!
Go here, you will not be disappointed with the work or service. Also I suggest bringing a magazine, tablet or the paper to read while you wait. You can’t listen to the radio as your keys have to be on the dashboard while all work is being performed.

Very quick service. I was in and out in leas than 20 minutes and there were even cars ahead of me. They include filling up tires and checking your other fluids as well.
Make sure you check in if you have the app bc you get a coupon and now i have to save mine for next time.

Went there just over a month ago for a routine oil change and it might have possibly been the best experience I’ve had at a Valvoline and also the quickest. The staff was very friendly, efficient and very well organized. Courteous as well. No complaints.
They were thorough and did their job well although I could have done without them trying to upsell me on stuff but I can’t blame them for trying… It took under 9 minutes and I also saved a bunch of money by using Google to find a coupon, something that’s available year-​round for places such as this one.
I don’t really know what else to say about the oil change. They topped off my fluids? That’s pretty standard from most places… I guess one thing about this place is that it’s centrally and very conveniently located near the center of Waltham — right off the common.
All in all, I’d go there again next time around without any hesitation in the future.