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The Latest Scams Circulating the Consumer World.  Be warned.  Be informed.

 

February 2008

Oil & Lube Rip-Offs

 Regularly-scheduled oil changes are a great way to ensure your car has a long and healthy life. Unfortunately, many people get scammed during an oil change because they don't understand the technical details about how their cars work.

The Pitch

“You’re oil & lube change will be $30, but we found a lot of other things wrong with your car that need to be fixed ASAP.”
 

The Scam

Nothing else really needs to be done with your car, the oil & lube place just wants to get more money out of your wallet before you walk out the door. 2008_02_oilandlube.jpg
Take for example that The State of California has now reached a $5 million settlement with EZ Lube over an oil & lube scam.  EZ Lube charged $25 for an oil change.  However, EZ Lube employees had quotas to meet and weren't allowed to let customers go until they billed them a minimum of an additional $75 of unnecessary work.

Play it Safe

  • Make a note of what you're told needs to be fixed on your car.
  • Tell the person you'll get it fixed during your next major service checkup.
  • Ask an independent mechanic to diagnose any problems in your car.
 
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