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Valvoline Instant Oil Change [VIOC]
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1.6 114 Reviews

Valvoline Instant Oil Change [VIOC] Complaints Summary

16 Resolved
98 Unresolved
Our verdict: With Valvoline Instant Oil Change [VIOC]'s very poor resolution rate, careful consideration is needed. Research their service comprehensively, and read up on how they handle customer disputes. If you face issues, be prepared for potential challenges in obtaining resolutions and explore other service providers as backups.
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Valvoline Instant Oil Change [VIOC] reviews & complaints 114

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8:44 pm EDT
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Valvoline Instant Oil Change [VIOC] unprofessional work done

I had this company do several services on both of my vehicles. Both vehicles have had several oil changes done and all other fluids have been changed by Vavoline. After a few oil changes, once in awhile I noticed my oil level was down on my 1997 Crown Victoria. The last oil change that I had done in less then 3, 000 miles I had added 2 quarts. I decided to change my own oil and check things out with my son as a witness. When I checked out what was going on I found that my car has a full underneath panel that when removed was covered with oil. I also found oil on the oil filter and when I touched the oil filter it turned freely. Thus my oil filter was so loose I could turn it with one finger!
I also had both of my vehicles radiators flushed by Vavoline and prior to the flushing I never had to add any antifreeze. Since both flushes I have had to add antifreeze in both vehicles.
When I contacted my local Attorney Generals office and filed a complaint with them. Vavolines response was to blow them off and tell them tough basically. I want to warn All others that Valvoline does not backup the service that their Instant oil change service companies do. I used the top of the grade synthetic oil in each of my vehicles and my first request was for Vavoline to give me a 300, 000 mile warranty, you know the one they so proudly and prominently have on their jugs of oil and they refused. Thus, that speaks a whole lot about how much faith they have in their employees and the quality of the products they sell to the general public.

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Update by Raypc800
Mar 29, 2011 5:38 pm EDT

New that did try to do that for both my vehicles pss. when a regular shop in this town does a shoddy job such as not tighten an oil filter they stand by their work and assume responsibility for any future damages, unlike Valvoline they just blow you off and the AG of WA state as well. Hmm I thought corporations were now people seems this corporate person is very much lacking in the ideas of moral right, personal responsibility and ethics.

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ma1989
, US
Mar 28, 2011 11:20 pm EDT

for you to recieve the 300, 000 mile limited engine gaurantee you have to be enrolled not just use the oil everytime. without being enrolled into the gaurantee there is no warranty

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Valvoline Instant Oil Change [VIOC] - engine blew ip

TOOK MY TRUCK TO VALVOLINE FOR A ROUTINE OIL CHANGE, THEY SUGGESTED I NEEDED A FEW OTHER SERVICES, SO I SAID OK, THE NEXT DAY GOT UP TO GO TO WORK AND TRUCK WAS MAKING A LOUD NOISE AND KEPY DYING, I WENT BACK TO VALVOLINE AND THEY SAID TO TAKE TO MIKE'S AUTOMOTIVE TO CHECK IT OUT, THE N THEY TOLD ME MY ENGINE BLEW A GASKET AND PISTON, THE MOTOR HAS BLEW UP...

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Valvoline Instant Oil Change [VIOC] - terminated without case

I was terminated as service center manager of the valvoline instant oil change in Henderson, KY. I worked for the company for almost 2 years and was manager for the last seven months. Valvoline terminated me for what they say was a procedure violation. But my Area manager promoted me to manager, gave me the keys to the store, and expected me to know...

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Valvoline Instant Oil Change [VIOC] successful resolution of complaint

Posted a complaint earlier in the week about services at Valvoline. It ends up that they rectified their mistake and reimbursed me for the damage. It took them a while to communicate this to me but it turns out they are not as unprofessional as I thought they were in terms of taking responsibility.

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Valvoline Instant Oil Change [VIOC] service & auto damage

Went to Valvoline for a basic oil change and tire rotation. The service technician called me over to tell me had broken my wheel nut off while attempting to remove the tire. The damage cost me $165 to repair and Valvoline has been totally non-responsive in assuming liability for the damage or offering me any kind of reimbursement. Don't go here!

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Valvoline Instant Oil Change [VIOC] over charge - deceptive

I got the coupon from an online Valvoline ad for $21.99 so I thought since Valvoline endorsed it the place must be on the up-and-up. But here is what I experienced. it was for a 2009 Lexus RX 350. They will tell you that they'll take the coupon but once you are in the bay. they said that there is an $8 up charge because of a special filter. There there is another $5.99 for an extra quart of oil. I understand the additional oil but the filter should not be a special filter because it's just a regular Toyota filter. And if there is a charge then it should have been printed on the coupon so you don't feel like you made a trip to the shop and waste your time and gas if you don't get it done. And the crew was very arrogant. I know enough about cars and I used to change my own oil, brakes, and tune-up, so I was not intimidated. But they talk to you like they know better than you. Long story short, I rolled out of there with a bill of $42. For $36 I could have gone to my own Lexus dealer and got genuine Lexus parts. I will never go back there again. And by the way, what the heck is Valvoline thinking just signing up any shops out there? What a wreck to put their name on these businesses. I will not go to another Valvoline oil service until I see a change from bad to a 90% approval rating from rating sites like this. Peace Out.

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Pinky Lee
Dallas, US
Mar 02, 2022 11:44 am EST

What is the difference between a canister oil filter and a spin on oil filter …is it more expensive for a canister?🙄

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CCecilia
Hillsdale, US
Jun 30, 2014 2:43 pm EDT
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Be sure to just stick with an oil change. Was just there today and they were trying to convince me to change Subaru's rear deferential fluid. 1st, their price is $99. I called a Subaru dealership and theirs is only $40. 2nd, I found out I don't really need it, since you only need to have it checked starting 30, 000 miles (my car's mileage is way less than that). Beware. They will try and try and try to offer you services you don't really need. Quite annoying. I am not going back there.

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ck76
Rockwall, US
Nov 04, 2009 7:04 pm EST

You have to read the fine print. The coupon states 5 quarts of oil are included in the oil change. The oil filter charge on the other hand should have been disclosed before service. The oil filter on your make is not just an "ordinary" toyota filter. It is a canister style filter (not a typical "spin on" filter) wich requires special tools and extra time to service. They also come at a higher cost to the service center, so unfortunately it does get shifted to the consumer.

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Valvoline Instant Oil Change [VIOC] substantial overcharge ripoff

When I arrived at the Valvoline Instant Oil Change I told the young man that I had never been there before and asked how much an old change was. He told me $37.99. After the oil change, I was presented with a bill for $49.99. Besides tax, there was a $10 additional charge for a premium oil filter for my Mazda 3 that I wasn't informed of or have ever encountered before whenever I use Jiffy Lube to change my oil. Jiffy Lube usually changes my oil for ~$35.99 total. I told the gentleman at Valvoline Instant Oil Change that they won't see me ever again. I recommend that people stay away from these Manassas guys with their hidden charges.

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klesel
, US
Jan 29, 2010 12:41 pm EST

I have worked for oil change companies in the past before getting into college, so I know how this works, so bear with me here.
The dealership charges x amount for an oil filter. They are legally allowed to keep the patent on the filter for as long as their lawyers fight it, until a 3rd party like fram, jiffylube or valvoline can start producing the filter. If Mazda is making serious money on the filter, they will keep fighting it as long as possible. Jiffylube probably used a filter for the year before, that was very close to, but not the exact same filter, to keep prices down. Is this cheap, shotty workmanship or a good bargaining decision? As for the total price, that's very obvious. Jiffy lube charges extra for things such as tire inflation and fluid top offs. Valvoline does them all, and includes the price in the total bill. True, the employee at valvoline should have informed you of the cost, but it's your fault for not asking if it is an issue. If a TV doesn't have a price tag on it, you don't carry it to the cashier and then tell him/her you'll never be coming back because the price is too high.

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Valvoline Instant Oil Change [VIOC] terrible experience

I took my car in for a routine oil change and radiator flush to the Valvoline in Grove City, OH. Not four days after having this done, my car started overheating. When I looked, all the anti freeze and water had drained out of my car. It was late at night when this happened so I did a temp fix and drove to the nearest motel after getting off work. Called Valvoline the next morning and they sent a guy to come look at it. He took off a hose and saw what the problem was and rigged it so it could be driven for the day. The next day Valvoline called me and told me to bring my car in. I got a few miles away and my car died on the side of the road. The manager from the Grove City and Georgiasville store came and met me at my car. They did various things to try and fix it and finally figured out that the head gasket was blown. Now it is my fault that the head gasket is blown because supposedly I didn't put the radiator cap back on the night before when I checked the fluid before driving home from work. The only problem with that is I have 4 witnesses from my work who saw me put it back on and made sure it was secure.

I have filed a complaint with the BBB and am in touch with a lawyer.

Another complaint that I read on here said Valvoline doesn't stand behind their work and the 100% customer satisfaction is a bunch of crap. Well I agree wholeheartedly and like the other complainant said, I will NEVER take my car to another Valvoline. I will even go one step further and make sure none of my friends or family go there either.

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Kj 57
45335, US
Nov 15, 2013 8:54 am EST
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Power-steering fluid change not done to customer satisfaction.
It has been over a week and I have not heard from them.

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TERRYSESS
Rowlett, US
Jan 24, 2010 7:41 pm EST
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I went to the Rowlett TEXAS STORE AT 633 DALROCK ROAD location at 04:55 pm 01/24/2009. There were 5 guys standing around chatting and having fun. I try to give business to my local business places. The guy asked what I needed and I stated a 30 weight oil change; He RUDELY said THAT IS OK BUT WE CLOSE IN TWO MINUTES; I STATED THAT I CAN COME BACK a different time and the guy quickly responed; THATS UP TO YOU. I drove off and I tell you that I will never set foot in a Vavoline station or buy any other vavoline produce ever again. This place often has no business and to talk to a customer like they are trash ==believe me; we the customer rule. I will take my business back to the penzoil station in Dallas and again will never buy a Vavoline product again

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Valvoline Instant Oil Change [VIOC] fraud and scam

I went into a local Valvoline oil change station for an oil change. I had my own oil (synthetic) and car manufacturer's oil filter. I had my oil changed before at that station and others. I have only been charged $15.00 to cover labor. Upon completion, I was presented with a bill for $33.99. I was aghast. I had the bill rechecked on 2 different computers. As I watched, the entries for 'customer oil and filter' or regular were the same. The manager called someone, who stated that the computer is correct, even though it was clearly wrong. The bill lists $12 for labor and 16.99 for parts. I questioned them about the parts and Valvoline stated for use of equipment and shop supplies. I asked what equipment and shop supplies. I was contacted by a Valvoline representative who quoted me a different initial price ($36.00), less $6 for my oil and filter. The bill lists $33.99 less $5.00 for my parts. They are scamming people who don't know what is going on.

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Dave Me
Lewis Center, US
Nov 17, 2022 7:32 am EST

On 11-14-2022, invoice number 503023. I was charged $73.99 for an oil change. I did not receive the 30/35% discount as advertised. I've called the local place (Lewis Center, Ohio) and the corporate office several times. Left my name and telephone number several times. I'm still waiting for my returned telephone calls. Very poor customer service. Dave [protected]

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Amadou Diop
, US
Jul 03, 2022 1:18 pm EDT

I came for an oil change on the one on 301 ridgewalk parkway woodstock. After the oil change my ac stops working right away and they offered a "repair" for a $200 WHAT A COINCIDENCE!?!? you would say right!. I confronted them about it they completely denied any other thing but the oil change. They claimed they have a CCTV they can view but refused for me to view it. The manager let me speak to his superior who refused to view it or let me view it based on his "experience" eventhough wasn't there physically.

I would like may AC repaired!

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Matt X
, US
Sep 05, 2020 1:42 pm EDT

Take a step back and think about what you're paying for. You could easily change your own oil, or wait somewhere to do it. You're paying for the convenience for competent people to change your fluid and filter, check for leaks, inspect the drain plug, etc and walking away dropping $16 for a quick service onto a team of people working outside all day is just being a cheap person.

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RyeBred
, US
Apr 19, 2019 6:16 pm EDT

Valvoline Instant Oil Change website coupon scam
Coupon for about 1/2 off the regular oil change price can be printed out from website. In VERY small print in the middle of the 3 line "disclaimer" section at the bottom of the coupon it says "at participating dealers". Went to two places. Neither one was "participating", nor could they tell me where a participating dealer was. Tried to contact Valvoline on-line, but was unable to find out where the coupon could be used. WARNING: "Bait and switch" price scam.

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amos10k
, US
Feb 17, 2016 7:07 pm EST

I use to work at valvoline in MN and honestly i have nothing but great things to say about my experience as an employee and a customer. I would still be working for the company if they had a market in WI. From day 1 you are trained not only to be proficient with the services they provide but to be a leading example in customer service. It is true they cost a little more then there competitors but if you look at the service they provide it is worth it. I still bring all of my vehicles there even though I know how to do all of the services because I know to do it myself would only be about $5 cheaper and would have to do all the work myself. I highly recommend valvoline to everyone and even if you have had a bad experience in the past i urge you to try it again because valvoline is a company that makes a huge effort into trying to make customer experience better.

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Dustin Hadsell
, US
Jul 23, 2015 10:31 am EDT

I work at a Valvoline in Ohio. Myself we are educators. We are not just a salesperson. Within my Shop where I am most of the Manager on Duty besides my store manager I ensure my guys are trained right, and properly. In both Mechanical Standards and safety Standards. If my guys did wrong I will be more than happy to fix the issue at hand. I want to keep customers. Whether you buy our basic Premium Conventional or our full synthetic with maxlife Technologies oils.

What some of you have experienced are recommendations ONLY. We have to go through that. It's part of our education process for our customers (which 99% of people don't know what a transmission flush is/does) or if they even realize there is such a thing as a Power steering flush. We are a PREVENTATIVE maintenance shop. Not a full service Mechanic shop. I cannot speak for EVERY Valvoline but I can personally speak for mine THE ONLY reason our customers walk away is because of price. We are a pricey Oil Change. But with what we are taught and SUPPOSED TO do we are one of the best. Our Free FLuid Top off program no other Oil change place does that either Ask your local valv shop about that. WIth our oils yes there is a huge price difference. BUt MOST manufacturers started recommending synthetic blends or higher oils in vehicles starting around 2005. That is why a lot of our Techs will stress the Synthetic blends. But I also guarantee you this. WE DO NOT GET A COMMISSION. I get the same rate of pay whether you buy ALL of our services with a FULL Syn oil change or just a Convent Oil Change and NOTHING ELSE. It doesn't bother me at all because it DOES NOT AFFECT MY PAY. If you don't believe me stop by any Valvoline and ask to see their paycheck. NOTHING will change from week 1-week 4 except HOURS worked. But our Oils are one of the best and our FUll Synthetics rival if not beat Mobil 1 and Royal Purple.

The employee that responded above is not our sponsor nor is he the kind of employee that I would want at my store. Bad attitude. Any of you who had a bad experience PLEASE stop by my store in Lima Ohio and we will be MORE than happy to show you a great experience. If it's the price I apologize but other than that you will be fully satisfied. That's how I train my staff.

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Joe Mahma
Buffalo, US
May 03, 2013 9:23 pm EDT

What kind of tool brings their own oil and filter to an oil change station? What, you can't allow them the meager markup on materials?

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Joe74
Kansas City, US
Dec 21, 2012 12:41 pm EST

Why would you bring your own oil to a place of business? Try that next time you go out to eat and see how much of a break you get at mc donalds. If you go somewhere for them to service your car, pay their price or walk away.

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Matt X
, US
Sep 05, 2020 1:39 pm EDT
Replying to comment of Joe74

Bring your own is actually a very common thing at oil change places. The staff doesn't think twice, you're paying for the labor. There are even specific SKU's in the system for the labor only service.

SOURCE: I worked at one (grease monkey RIP) for a few years. Great job to get through college!

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Frank124
Maumee, US
Dec 11, 2012 2:49 pm EST

For the dumb ### who works at Valvoline Instant Oil Change calling consumers cheap! Kiss my ###! "Cheap" has nothing to do with YOU dipwads trying to rip hard working people off! THis is why your shop is always empty when I ride by it to go to your competitor for service! In this day and age the majority of people can't afford to pay $70-$80 for a freaking oil change! Its A FREAKING "Oil Change" not a freaking tune-up! Bad business practices result in customer complaints which result in a lack of business for your company! Word-of-mouth is a mutha when it comes to business! Really?...didn't you use to be "Instant Oil Change? What name will you change to next, right before you go out of business?...SMFH...

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ck76
Rockwall, US
Aug 04, 2011 7:19 pm EDT

Heres the deal folks, the automotive indutry is just as crooked as the health care industry. The nature of the business is genuine, its the people running the business that is the problem. At some point the owners forget what its like to be an average consumer, not the $150, 00 millionare consumer. Even as employee I dont pay our costs for an oil change. I go to the part store and get everything I need and do it on my break at work. I wont take my car to the dealership because of their costs.

The nature of this business is to ensure the reliability and dependability of your vehicle. Yes we are going to make suggestions for additional services and we will probably make money off of it (if we do it) Yes we will be presistant in acquring these services, as we will ask you many times over the course of your visits. Yes some of our paychecks depend on how many extra services we can sale, and yes some people will lie to get what they want. But you have to understand that this is our job, its nothing personal. I dont take it personal when bill collectors call me at dinner, thyre just doing their job; thats all. We all have the right to say no, especially as a consumer.

Not everyone in this business is out to get you. Some of us are actually trying to take care of our customers. I try to make sure that people know that have the option and feel free to take advantage of our services at their convienence. Its no sweat off my back if you dont rotate your tires or get that airfilter, its not my car, its yours. You do what best for you.

In society, if we feel attacked we take the defensive real quick. In business we do the same thing. As a consumer you have many choices, where to eat, where to get your oil changed, where your kids go to school... just remember if someone wants to talk to you about the state of your car, its not personal and you have the right to decline anything you dont want to do.

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Valvoline Instant Oil Change [VIOC] scam

These dirty ### should be put out of business - their upsell tactics are beyond dishonest - why can't the NY AG or FTC or other consumer protection agency investigate these crooks and fine them heavily or ban them from doing business.
The stories are many - I've had people get scammed into buying their "sludge" remover during oil changes - because the ### mechanics who are bonused for upsells convince people they need them - of course, they always get you for wipers, etc during state inspections - this was my experience with them -
"George" - the manager at the transit rd williamsville location tried this last scam on me - failed my inspection, and of course, wanted to "upsell" me what I needed. Big of him.
PUT THESE SCAMMERS OUT OF BUSINESS ONCE AND FOR ALL!

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Valvoline Instant Oil Change [VIOC] Bad service

My fianc©, Michael, went to Valvoline to get his oil changed at 449 Connecticut Ave. Norwalk, CT 06854 on Saturday June 28, 2008. After the technician was done with his oil change the technician had trouble closing his hood. He began fiddling with the latch with a screwdriver and spraying some grease on the latch to help close it. After he got the hood to close the technician said nothing about the car being unsafe to drive. Mike has never had any problems closing his hood.

Mike then left Valvoline and drove down the Merritt/Hutchinson parkway to Mamaroneck. When he got off the highway his hood flew open. Luckily, he did not hit anything and his windshield did not break. He pulled over and called AAA. Mike had to wait 3 1/2 hours for AAA to come tow his car back to Norwalk, CT. While Mike waited for AAA to come he called Valvoline and spoke to the Service Center Manager, Nick Nichols. He apologized for what happened and told Mike to get an estimate for the damages and bring it into the store.

On Monday I took Mikes car into two body shops and received two estimates for the damages. I drove over to Valvoline with the estimates. Nick Nichols was not there, so I spoke to whoever was in charge (I dont remember his name). I gave the man the two estimates and said, Here are the estimates I got, but I would be happy to go anywhere you would like to get Michaels car fixed. This supervisor got Nick on the phone to speak to me. Over the phone Nick said to me, I spoke to my supervisor, Todd Cooper, who said we are not responsible for what happened. If you have a problem with this, take it up with Todd.

I tried calling Todd Copper [protected]) at least six times with no response. The last time I called, the woman who answered the phone told Daisy, If Todd has not returned your phone call, he is not planning on it. The last message I left to Todd said I was filing a complaint with the Department of Consumer Protection. As of July 17, 2008 Todd Cooper has not returned our phone calls.

Consumers should know that Valvoline does not take responsibility for closing your hood properly after an oil change. If Mike was on the highway when his hood flew open he could have been killed. If there is any more information you need please contact me at Daisykummer AT yahoo.com.

Thank you in advance for your help in this matter

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Alayna4347
, US
Jan 03, 2014 11:37 pm EST

I will never use Valvoline again. I think that of course each problem is accountable to the mechanic, but it's obviously a larger problem if a lot of mechanics that are hired to work for Valvoline are screwing up. I went to Valvoline for an oil change and they said that my oil filter needed changing. I said, ok, change it, and that was that. 2 months later, the "plug" they had placed on it, had slipped off, because it was a "slip tie" and not the original plug for the fuel filter. This resulted in a car that wouldn't start and the gas flooding when I tried to start it.
The fire department had to check the area for safety and my car was towed to different mechanic, which told me what had happened and repaired it. He informed me that the plug itself only cost $10. $10 they weren't willing to pay for a potentially fatal mistake.
They still have not payed me back for the repairs that I had done, and I'm pretty much 100% pissed off that a corporation with such little respect and standards even exists!

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Ripped Off By Valvoline
Saint Charles, US
Jul 21, 2011 10:24 pm EDT

On July 6th 2011 I had my oil changed at Valvoline Instant Oil Change in St. Peters MO they convinced me that using 5W-40 synthetic oil was in my trucks best interest".

On July 15, 2011 my truck would not start I had it towed to JC Car Care who did a diagnostic/pressure test, the oil pressure was at zero, they changed the oil to 15W-40 diesel oil which is what FORD Motor CO the manufacturer of my vehicle recommends and the vehicle started and has been running fine since".

On July 19th I visited the Valvoline shop and informed Jerry Creach the Manager of the problem and presented him with the bill from JC car care which detailed the repair and specifically states that the vehicle mfg/. does not recommend synthetic oil in these vehicle and that they also only recommend the use of 15W-40 oil!. Any other oil can cause serious problems.. He made a phone call and told me that it was not the oil and there was something wrong with my truck and they were not responsible;.

On July 19th I made a phone call to Valvoline's customer care hotline at [protected] I spoke with a lady named Terra, she looked up my invoice then looked in a Valvoline cross reference guide which in fact confirmed that the local Valvoline store had used the wrong type/weight oil and the problem was their responsibility and that she would be opening a claim and I would be contacted within 24 hours". She then later lied after talking to Chris the area manager. The whole company is full of LIARS.

On July 19th I was contacted by a man named Chris who identified himself as the Area Manager for Valvoline, who became very rude told me the oil could not cause the problem and the problem with my truck was a weak oil pump and that he had independent information that showed that the use of 5W-40 oil could not cause this problem and would work fine in my truck, I then asked him to send me a copy of this information to which he answered he couldn't, it wasn't available or he couldn't access it:. I call BS... I requested he call the mechanic at JC Car Care that worked on my truck, which he did, along with another expert named Lou Craven at a company called DTI who also told Chris at Valvoline that the thin oil was not recommended and that he had seen this cause problems in diesel engines more times than he could count.

In addition on July 18th 2011 I went online and payed $38.00 to speak with an ASE certified Ford diesel mechanic through JUSTANSWER.COM I explained to him the problem and asked if a weak oil pump would cause this problem, his answer "NO it is likely just the oil because your 2006 6.0 calls for 15W-40 and the 5W-40 is just to thin. Your oil pump is just fine." He also supplied me with a page from a Ford tech manual that shows that the recommended oil is 15W40 super duty, I have a copy of this tech manual.

Also on July 18th 2011 I contacted the local Ford dealer Pundmann Ford In Saint Charles MO I spoke with a technician there who said again that the only oil Ford recommends for this vehicle is 15W-40 and light weight oils tend to foam and mess with the fuel injectors causing a lack of pressure which doesn't allow the diesel engine to fire.

It should be noted that Chris the area manager from Valvoline spoke to the same people and claims that they never said these things. I spoke with my mechanic after his call with Chris and we compared notes and caught him in a couple of lies.

I also spoke with a man named Mike at Valvoline who is supposedly a technical guy, who also was very rude and basically told me that none of these people I have spoke with have a lab including the Ford dealer so we don't know what we are talking about.

In the face of all the supporting documentation that I supplied Valvoline including a bill for $400.00 from my mechanic for diagnosis and changing out the oil to the correct stuff. Valvoline still denied my claim.

Are these the kind of people you want to give your hard earned money to? I will certainly never spend another nickel with these incompetent liars. Do yourself a favor learn from my misfortune and BOYCOTT VALVOLINE!

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Todd Cooper
Hartford, US
Nov 23, 2010 1:18 pm EST

I agree with Mr. Consumer. You should get the services you requested and expect each and every time. We work hard to train our people to follow due process, and complete all the tasks of servicing a vehicle. Unfortunately, some people choose to take short cuts thus affecting the customer. We are in the process of expanding our camera installs, which do include the lower bay area. We also have a full time security advisor that monitors and directs us to possible training needs. Those who are witnessed doing any short custs, are promptly retrained, or relaesed.

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Todd Cooper
Hartford, US
Nov 23, 2010 1:10 pm EST

This vehicle had a pre exhisting hood latch related problem. Our technician didn't even close the hood, the customer did. We are a very reliable and responsible company, that stands behind its workmanship and products. It is an unfortunate situation for everyone involved. (Todd Cooper)

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Mr Consumer
House Spring , US
Jul 31, 2009 9:55 am EDT

I took my truck to valvalvoline for oil change and lub. I make it a point to say "make sure you grease all the fitting. They finished and printed out the paper that showed 10 fittings were lubed. I paid and then left. When I got home I checked serveral of the grease fittings and they had not been touched. I have worked on cars for 45 years and can tell the difference. I went back and told them what I thought about their operation. In my opinion when I pay for a service and don't get it to me it is the same as me getting and oil change and driving off without paying. No better than a shop lifter. This is the second time this have happen and it was not the same place. This makes me wonder just how many times people have only got half the service they paid for. I do not believe for a moment that this was an oversight. Change oil, filter, and grease and of course try to sell you some other service. A word of advise, just because it is printed on your receipt doesn't meant it was actually done. I know it sounds so impressive when they walk around your car yelling out stuff that you can see that they are doing, it is under the car where you can't see that seems to be the problem. Here's a suggestion put a closed circuit TV monitor in the pit so atleast some people can watch and know what they are doing.

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tom
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Sep 30, 2008 12:27 am EDT

I was a Service Center Manager a year ago for Valvoline Instant Oil Change. I cannot disagree more with your statements that Valvoline should be held responsible. If the the hood on the car does not close, unless you have evidence that one of the employees did something to it before it would not close then it is not Valvoline's fault. The vehicle should be properly maintained, and that includes the hood latch. When you open the hood of a car all the technician touches is a small lever, therefore the problem was pre-existing and was your husband's responsibility to have taken care IMMEDIATELY.

That would be like taking a computer with a small virus to the geek squad at Best Buy, and having them put on a new OS. Then when you turn on the computer later the virus just takes over.

It is not Best Buy's fault that the condition was pre-existent.

People always brought in cars and tried to pull ignorant stuff like this. Don't rely on other people to know you're car for you, know your car yourself.

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Fred
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Sep 17, 2008 8:52 am EDT

Your husband new there was a problem closing the hood! Did he check it? If so then, it was his mistake... Valvoline wouldn't allow a car to leave with a problem. Have valvoline check the video tape. Maybe your husband lied to YOU.. So you wouldn't ### at him...

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Lisa
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Jul 31, 2008 2:45 am EDT

Well, this technician was working for his employer which happens to be this company, then the company is responsible. That is why every company has to pay insurance just in case their company ###s up regardless which employee messes up.

I would sue. I'm sorry but if I go somewhere to service my car and a technician messes up then the company is RESPONSIBLE.

If I were you, get a lawyer and draw up the paperwork. I am 100% sure you will receive a phone call from Todd really quick!

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cindy
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Jul 30, 2008 1:16 pm EDT

I disagree with what your saying about Valvoline, i work at a Valvoline, and we do not treat our customers cars that way. It was obviously the technician who screwed up not the company.

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9:20 am EDT
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Valvoline Instant Oil Change [VIOC] Oil change fraud

Took my 1995 chevy tahoe in for an oil change. Marked old oil filter before taking it in and checked oil and other fluids first was 1/4 quart low oil. Got home and checked to see if job had been performed and no surprise it had not. Had bad service years ago and thought would give them a second chance after being assured all local locations had been bought out by new owner. This was also a lie.

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B2004
, US
Dec 01, 2010 8:00 pm EST

I do not belive that at all.

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12:00 am EST

Valvoline Instant Oil Change [VIOC] damage to car during oil change!

I took my Saturn in for a routine oil change. After trying to sell me a long list of expensive and entirely unnecessary repairs/windshield wipers/filters, etc, the "customer service rep" began to get surly in response to my repeated "no thanks, not today". He then huffily informed me that I had a transmission fluid leak and that I should have it repaired at Valvoline, at an entirely unreasonable price, of course. I informed him that I had personally checked my fluid levels the previous day, and that the fluid levels had been fine. He got really snippy then, basically telling me I was an idiot for not falling for his bait-and-switch sales pitch.

The next day, my transmission started gushing fluid. When I had it towed to my reliable and honest mechanic, he told me that Valvoline had pulled my transmission filter off and broken the seal when they put it back on. Since there is no need to remove that filter during an oil change, they either pulled the wrong one because they're ignorant or deliberately damaged my car in hopes that I would buy the $200 repair at their shop.

The manager offered to cut me a check, but also gave me quite a bit of bureaucratic runaround, and I'm sure I won't be seeing that check anytime soon.

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quityourbitchin
ooltewah, US
Jun 16, 2012 7:05 pm EDT

I was a CSR for Valvoline, and I did like my job. However, what you do not realize is how much stress the CSR is put under to 'make numbers' constantly. I am in NO WAY excusing his behavior. Chances are, he is usually a technician and the store either doesn't have a permanent CSR (most low volume ones do not, so the technicians have to rotate- which most of them have not been trained on the csr position- and it is nervewracking because more often than not, the csr is the one getting cussed up and down the street for telling you about your car)! However, first of all- if this is a vioc, we do not do ANY kind of repair work. We do preventative maintenance services- oil changes, tire rotations, recharging the AC, trans and radiator flushes, battery replacements, etc. I am going to assume that you just misunderstood him. He probably recommended an ATFE (auto trans fluid exchange)...but, if you truly did have a leak, we would not have done that service.
As far as your transmission leak, and other visual inspections that were noticed, these are communicated from the technicians. But, going back to what I stated in the beginning- it is our JOB DESCRIPTION to go over all these inspections with you. Not only that, but let's hypothetically says your serpentine belt is very worn and cracked. We don't say anything to you about it, nor do we note it on the invoice. On the way home, it's had it and breaks. You're stuck on the side of the road, and somehow find us liable for not communicating this with you. Making sure you are aware of EVERYTHING we notice is not only important in making a sale, but it at least gives you an idea of what we found, what is due based on mileage, and also protects our company.
Also, I did not work at this service center, but at miine, we had to go to several classes and be certified by the Manager and Area Manager, and get reviewed at least once a month, before we could even touch a car. I am certified to work on top side, and had to do this job for a month before I was a CSR. It's definitely not a "lack of training." Mistakes DO happen, and I am sorry for that one. I KNOW they would not remove the plug on purpose for you to buy that service. If it's the service I'm thinking of, draining your fluid out would not do anything. We also will not perform a TFE if there is no fluid...plus, we top off transmission fluid for free (Automatic transmission anyway...you did not specify whether you have a manual or sealed transmission). But, in this case, the tech probably thought he had fixed the error and didnt want to cause unnecessary drama by telling you. I'm SURE he received a final written warning, if not termination, for not saying anything. But, he didn't tell the CSR, so how would he have known?

The CSR is TRULY there for your benefit. It is solely their job to inform and educate you on thiings we noticed and services you're due for- simply based on your mileage. I do not pressure my guests. We do not work on commission, nor do we get any kind of bonus for our sales...just hourly employees, so if you do not want to do the service, the most that will happen to us is a tongue lashing from the SCM about our sales. So, please, do not blame all your issues on the CSR.

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ImIrish
Fort Worth, US
Dec 15, 2009 8:55 pm EST

Just lack of training regarding the removal of the transmission filter etc. Hardly.
This was much more than just lack of training. The lack of training was when the shop in error, removed the transmission filter thinking it was the engine oil filter and then reinstalled it causing a leak. The deception by the shop was when nothing was said that this had happened in the first place. The customer was "rude"? The shop was "rude" for not admitting their error to the customer and making it right the first time. The job of the service advisor is not just to "sell" or recommend additional services. His job includes being truthful to a customer when an error is made by a technician and make it right "before" the customer leaves the shop.

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ck76
Rockwall, US
Nov 04, 2009 7:21 pm EST

Unfortunately it happens. Its not a matter of ignorance, but a lack of training. Saturns have to types of external filters, one for the oil (wich is "hidden" above the passenger side a arm) and one for the transmission (wich is extremely visable and easily accesable) This is a complete lack of training. To imply that VIOC would intentionally damage your vehicle is extrordinarily arrogant. As for the service advisor, his attitude sucked. But to refer to bringing general maintinance to your attention as a bait and switch sales pitch is quite rude. Thats his job, thats what he gets paid to do. He isnt trying to pull a fast one on you, hes just giving you general information. Its your call, not his. Most of the services that he recommended probably were not unnecessary, you just didnt want them. Some guys just dont know how to handle the word no.

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12:00 am EDT

Valvoline Instant Oil Change [VIOC] major damage to the engine

I went to Valvoline Instant Oil Change on Warwick Avenue, in Warwick, Rhode Island on 6/13/07 for an oil change. Unfortunately, the employee that performed the oil change did not tighten the oil filter properly. As a result the oil slowly drained from the vehicle resulting in major damage to the engine. Ultimately, I had to have the engine replaced at a cost of $2000.00... The manager at the Valvoline Instant Oil Change denied any wrong doing, even though the mechanic that I brought the vehicle to (because of the engine noise) had to turn the oil filter two full turns to fully tighten the oil filter, and said that there was virtually NO oil in the motor. This was 5 days after the oil change.

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rev poet tribble
, US
Jan 28, 2024 8:50 pm EST
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

i worked for valvoline for 15 years and was required to fly cross country despite having severe PTSD and fear of heights and when i complained about the night terrors gettting worse as a result the fired me as soon as the statutory of limitations had been exceeded.

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Doug Goins
, US
Sep 21, 2022 6:25 am EDT

I was terminated for having an unlit cigarette in my hand when I picked up some oil filters. The area manager told me he saw the cigarette smoking and fired me for safety violation. So I talked to the marketing manager whol told me I was fired for "looking unprofessional" because I had a cigarette in hand

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Tasha@85
Natchitoches, US
Aug 15, 2022 6:16 am EDT

Not able to drive my vehicle

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edidd
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May 21, 2008 2:15 pm EDT

What, no Check Oil light in your car?

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