InFlames said:*note to self, never change oil on CX-7*
is there an aftermarket filter you can buy, like K&N? or is it a special filter only from the dealership02589 said:I strongly suggest that everyone have one of those oil filter covers on standby as a spare part, whether they change their own oil or not. Obviously, no mechanic will tell you that he broke the thing, but I can envision them coming up to you and saying, "you're gonna need a new oil filter cover, this one has a crack in it." (or stripped threads, or a leak, or is broken) And even a Mazda dealer might not have one in stock when you need it.
chasmanz28 said:Is there an aftermarket filter you can buy?
G-Papi said:Ditto
Nothing worse than getting under a car, and then finding out that you've got to go and get something.
Definitely not a Jiffy Lube job either!
02589 said:I like to do my own oil changes so that I know it's done right and so I can inspect the rest of the car. I feel I can do a better inspection than a dealer in most cases.
I changed my oil after the break in period. I doubt if the dealer will do that for you. While I try to change the oil on regular schedule, I often change it after periods of extreme driving conditions. The dealer won't do that for free.
I also decided to use Mobil 1. I can get a 5 qt bucket at WallyWorld for $21. Even if the dealer got Mobil 1 for you, they'd charge you an arm and leg for each qt.
This is definately not a Jiffy Lube job. But if your dealer will do it on terms that you are satisfied with, that's cool.
02589 said:I did it at 600, which the end of the engine break in period. From there, I'll go on a 6 month schedule. I'll do it again just before the weather gets cold and in early spring before the weather turns hot. Those are also the times I do major inspections on the cars too. Take out the spare and inspect it, take out the jack, test it and lube it, pull off each tire and check brakes and suspension, lube doors hoods and hatches, go over everything under the hood, light checks, lube seats, and go over just about everything. It takes all day and I always finish it with a very good wash detail job and a diet Michelob.
02589 said:I did it at 600, which the end of the engine break in period. From there, I'll go on a 6 month schedule. I'll do it again just before the weather gets cold and in early spring before the weather turns hot. Those are also the times I do major inspections on the cars too. Take out the spare and inspect it, take out the jack, test it and lube it, pull off each tire and check brakes and suspension, lube doors hoods and hatches, go over everything under the hood, light checks, lube seats, and go over just about everything. It takes all day and I always finish it with a very good wash detail job and a diet Michelob.