What to Do If Your Rental Car Needs an Oil Change

When you rent a car, you expect it to run smoothly so you can focus on your trip, not maintenance issues. But what if an oil change light suddenly appears on the dashboard? Should you worry? And more importantly, what should you do next?

Oil changes are crucial for a car’s health. They keep the engine running efficiently, prevent overheating, and ensure a smooth ride. However, when you’re driving a rental car, oil changes aren’t your responsibility but you do need to know how to respond correctly.

In this guide by Car and Rentals, we’ll cover everything you need to know:

• How to recognize when a rental car needs an oil change
  
• What steps to take when the oil change light comes on
  
• Who pays for maintenance and how rental companies handle it
  

Policies of major rental providers like Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis

How Do You Know If Your Rental Car Needs an Oil Change?

Modern rental cars are equipped with dashboard indicators that make it easy to spot when maintenance is required. The most common alerts include:

Oil Change Light: This symbol or message (“Change Engine Oil Soon”) means the oil is nearing its service interval.

Maintenance Required Light: Indicates a scheduled service, often including an oil change.

Check Engine Light: Sometimes related to oil level or pressure issues.

Most new cars can go 5,000 to 10,000 miles between oil changes, but heavy use or long trips can shorten that interval.

Pro Tip: If you notice a warning while on a long road trip, don’t ignore it. Continuing to drive could lead to engine damage and put your safety at risk.

What Should You Do If the Oil Light Comes On in a Rental Car

If the oil light appears, here’s exactly what to do  step by step:

1. Don’t Panic: Oil changes are a normal part of car maintenance.
   
2. Pull Over Safely: If the oil pressure warning appears (red light), stop driving immediately to avoid damage.
   
3. Call the Rental Company or Roadside Assistance: The contact number is printed on your rental agreement or key tag.
   
4. Explain the Situation Clearly: Mention any warning lights, messages, or unusual engine sounds.
   
5. Follow Their Instructions: The company will either direct you to a nearby service center, send roadside assistance, or arrange a car swap.
   

Remember: Never try to perform an oil change yourself it can violate your rental agreement and void insurance coverage.

Why Are Oil Changes So Important in Rental Cars?

Oil changes aren’t just routine; they’re vital for keeping the engine healthy. Here’s why they matter:

• Lubrication: Fresh oil reduces friction between engine parts.
  
• Heat Control: Oil absorbs excess heat, preventing the engine from overheating.
  
• Cleaner Engine: Oil traps debris, dust, and metal particles.
  
• Performance: Smooth engine operation improves fuel efficiency and reliability.
  

Skipping an oil change can lead to engine wear, increased emissions, and even breakdowns, something no traveler wants during their trip.

A well-maintained car ensures a safer and smoother journey, which is why top rental companies make regular servicing a priority.

Who Pays for Oil Changes on a Rental Car?

You’re not responsible for routine maintenance  the rental company is. Oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections are all handled before cars are rented out.

Your responsibility as a renter is to:

• Drive safely and within agreed mileage limits.
  
• Report any dashboard warning lights immediately.
  
• Avoid tampering with the vehicle or attempting repairs yourself.
  

If you ignore a maintenance warning or attempt DIY fixes, you could face penalties or void insurance coverage.

 Important: Always inform the rental agency before taking any action. They’ll arrange the proper servicing or replacement vehicle  at no extra cost to you.

Rental Car Oil Change Policies by Major Companies

Enterprise
If your Enterprise rental car needs an oil change, contact them immediately. They’ll guide you to the nearest service center or replace the vehicle. Never perform maintenance yourself, as it breaches their policy.

Hertz
Hertz regularly maintains all vehicles before renting them out. If the “Oil Change Required” message appears, stop driving and call Hertz Roadside Assistance. They’ll arrange service or a swap at no cost to you.

Avis
Avis services its fleet regularly. For extended rentals, if a maintenance light appears, contact their customer support team — they’ll direct you to an approved service location or handle the swap.

Sixt
Sixt ensures all cars are fully serviced before pickup. In case the oil change light comes on during a long rental, customers are advised to call Sixt Support for immediate help.

Turo
On Turo, maintenance including oil changes  is the owner’s responsibility. If an issue arises, report it to the host through the app. Never handle maintenance yourself without written approval.

Read Also- What happens if your rental car gets towed

Do You Have to Pay for an Oil Change on a Rental Car?

Oil changes due to normal usage are the rental company’s responsibility. They cover all costs associated with regular maintenance.

However, renters may be charged if:

• The car is damaged due to negligence (e.g., ignoring oil lights).
  
• Unauthorized repairs or DIY oil changes are attempted.
  
• The vehicle is misused beyond contract limits (e.g., extreme driving).
  

For most travelers, oil change-related issues are completely free as long as they follow the proper reporting steps.

Can I Change the Oil on a Rental Car Myself?

No  renters are not allowed to change the oil themselves. Rental companies prohibit any maintenance work by customers because:

• It may void the warranty or insurance
  
• It risks mechanical errors or safety hazards
  
• Unauthorized work violates the rental agreement
  

Oil changes require specific tools and approved oil grades only authorized technicians can perform them safely.

Even if you’re a professional mechanic, never attempt DIY repairs on a rental car. Always let the rental company handle maintenance.

conclusion

Oil change warnings in a rental car aren’t the end of the world. They’re simply reminders that the vehicle needs attention  and the rental company is there to handle it.

If you see a maintenance or oil light, call the roadside number listed on your contract right away. Never try to fix it yourself, and always keep communication records.

By following these steps, you’ll enjoy a smooth, safe, and worry-free trip every time.

FAQs

1. What should I do if my rental car says it needs an oil change?
Stop driving, call the rental company or roadside assistance, and follow their maintenance instructions immediately.

2. Do I have to pay for an oil change on a rental car?
No, rental companies cover routine maintenance costs, including oil changes, at no charge to you.

3. Can I change the oil in a rental car myself?
No, renters are not allowed to perform oil changes or repairs — it violates the rental agreement.

4. What happens if I ignore the oil change light in a rental car?
Ignoring the warning can damage the engine and you may be held liable for repair costs.

5. How often do rental cars get oil changes?
Rental cars are serviced regularly, usually every 5,000 to 10,000 miles, depending on the model.

6. Can I still drive a rental car with the oil light on?
It’s unsafe — stop immediately and contact the rental company for assistance or a replacement car.

7. Who is responsible for oil changes in rental cars?
The rental company handles all routine maintenance, including oil and filter changes.

8. Will the rental company replace my car if it needs an oil change?
Yes, most companies will provide a replacement vehicle or handle servicing quickly at no cost.

9. Can I get a refund if my rental car breaks down due to oil issues?
Yes, if the breakdown wasn’t your fault, the company may refund or extend your rental period.

10. What should I check before starting a long trip with a rental car?
Inspect dashboard lights, review maintenance policies, and keep the roadside assistance number handy.