Page 14 - The Magazine of AAA Ohio Auto Club – September 2020

Roadmap to a Better Oil Change
By Brenda A. Suttles
Three years ago, the management of AAA Car Care Plus made the strategic decision to move exclusively to full-synthetic oil changes. It was an unusual move, but one they felt customers would appreciate.
“We were hearing from our front-line staff that many customers were confused about whether they should choose conventional, full synthetic or a blended oil,” said Don Paxton, director, AAA Car Care Plus. “Full synthetic is a superior oil suitable for all engines. By using synthetic exclusively, we can buy in bulk, offer it at a great price and simplify things for the customer.”
Paxton explained that full synthetic is refined to a higher standard than conventional oil and offers enhanced engine protection. “The majority of people don’t realize that city driving conditions warrant following the ‘severe’ service schedule for their car,” he said. “They are actually changing oil less frequently than is ideal and full synthetic provides some added protection in between oil changes.”
Research conducted by AAA supports Paxton’s points. A 2017 AAA study included field testing of synthetic versus conventional oils on eight variables, along with a nation- wide survey of motorists on their opinions of synthetic oil. The study found that while 44% of U.S. drivers were skeptical or unsure whether synthetic oil was better for
their engine, the field tests revealed that synthetic oils outperformed their conventional counterparts by 47%.
Another AAA survey found that only 6% of motorists were aware that their driving conditions necessitated following their vehicle’s severe service schedule. However, 62% reported routinely driving their vehicle in conditions that qualified as severe.
Premium Filters for Longer Life
Along with moving to full synthetic oil, AAA Car Care Plus uses extended-life oil filters with every oil change. “Most cars today have recommended service intervals of 7,000 to 10,000 miles,” said Paxton. “A conventional oil filter isn’t designed to last that long.”
Traditional oil filters are generally made with cellulose filtering media and intended for around 5,000 miles of use. Most extended-life filters contain synthetic media capable of trapping smaller particles and are usually designed
to last 10,000 miles. Other upgraded components might include silicone gaskets and anti-drain back valves to withstand higher operating temperatures and keep oil in the engine for lubrication upon start-up.
Several Ways to Save
According to Paxton, the everyday price for an oil change at AAA Car Care Plus is already lower than most area competitors, and AAA members receive a discount. For a few dollars more, they can upgrade to the popular “Triple Play” offer which includes a tire rotation and a 39-point inspection.
In addition, Car Care Plus offers customers a savings certificate program that enables them to receive $7 off every future oil change or other service. After each oil service, the customer fills out and submits a form and the invoice, either online or by mail. In return, the customer receives a $7 check made out to AAA Car Care Plus to apply toward the cost of the next oil change. “We want to build long- term relationships with our
customers and help them take proper care of their vehicles,” said Paxton. “By offering what we call our ‘Three-point Promise’ – the right oil, the right filter, and the right price – we help them keep their engine healthy and prevent issues down the road.”
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Brenda A. Suttles is a brand manager for AAA Ohio.