A previous post mentioned that changing the oil in this car involves more than the filter/drain-plug. Something about 14 screws to remove a cover, etc. The dealer is inconvenient, so I was thinking about a Jiffylube-type place, but now I'm concerned about having someone unfamilar with the Z change the oil. Any good or bad experiences with these places? Thanks.

 

always a good idea to DIY when it comes to an oil change.

did they tightened all the nuts and bolts afterwards?
did they actually install a flesh oil filter instead of wiping the old one clean?
did they refill with oil according to specification?

 

I've used an EZ Lube in Southern CA with no problems. They never got the deer in the headlights look. Just keep a close eye on them the first time you use a place.

 

Only problem I had with Jiffy Lube in southern california was they used a generic oil filter and it caused the oil pressure to rise... If you can't use the dealership and you do not want to do it yourself, then I would buy parts and have them do it while you watch to make sure they acutally use the Nissan Parts...

And if they tell you that you need new radiator because of rust or that your engine needs rebuilding DON'T TRUST THEM

 

IMO I would stay clear of the lube places. And if unwilling to have a dealer do it, just get some rhino ramps and like the others have said DIY, undoing 14 screws etc. is much better than having an oil filter falling off

 

I used a local fast lube place here and they failed to tighten at least half of the bolts. It's also a PIA for them because they want you in and out in 10 minutes and it takes double that to do it right. I'd DIY or take it to a garage and avioid the Jiffy Lubes of the world.

 

Jiffy Lube will not remove the entire pan. Just a couple of bolts so that they can reach the filter.

 

And the oil they spill (on the cover that they didn't remove) will drip
on your garage floor...making you wonder did they spill old oil, or
leave the filter/drain plug loose?

Rhino ramps, order parts from Courtesy on line, = peace of mind.

 

+1 or Perf Nissan should do as well. Order in bulk and save on shipping.

 

are "rhino ramps" a name brand ? if so where can you buy them.

 

I always let the dealer do it. Try to keep it Dealer Serviced and keep the records in case you ever want to sell it.

 

I only take off about 4 screws, hold the skid plastic down while I remove the oil filter with the other hand. It works out fine and is not too messy with the right drain pan etc. If you must take it to a lube place use caution, I've taken my older cars there in the past, but with the Z, I've been doing my oil changes myself...

 

Yes they are a brand name http://www.blitzusa.com/automotive/ramps.html, They got em all over the place pepboys, autozone, amazon, even saw them at walmart , also online at performance or courtesy nissan. just make sure u get the right ramps for the vehicle weight.

 

I took my previous car to Wal-mart and they forgot to put the oil cap back on. oil spilled everywhere in the engine compartment... from then on ...DIY on my Z... It is not that bad DIY..... you only unscrew about 3 or 4 bolts not 14.... atleast I did.........DIY... man... kinda peace of mind... IMHO

 

I do this: grab a screwdriver and remove the center splashguard yourself. Go get the oil change. Put splashguard back on. It's a piece of cake and you don't have to worry about them only removing a few screws and then pulling down on the guard.

 

That's a good sug too. I realize not everyone has a garage/tools to DIY, so that is a great alternative if anyone is worried about the splash guard...

 

Around here the dealer takes a little longer but as for as price they are no worse than the quicky places

 

I use jack stands. Like other have said, you can save a ton of money by doing things like this yourself. Never again am I going to pay Pepboys 300+ for brake pads...NEVER!!

 

With my new Z i plan on getting some appropriate ramps/tools and doing the oil changes myself. She has 520 miles on her so by the time spring comes around I should be ready for an oil change and have the equipment to do it. And have the appropriate knowledge based on the stuff on this site... Search is good.
I love my new Z.

 

Thanks. Since I only drive about 5000 miles/year, I think I'll go to the dealer twice a year.