local
The small engine part making oil changes more expensive
By John Matarese at KXXV (ABC 25) News
· July 15, 2026
· 3 min read
Oil changes that once cost $20 or $30 are now running drivers $80 to $100 or more. For some, the bill could be even higher depending on what's under the hood.Two factors are driving the increase.First, the rising price of motor oil, the lubricating fluid that protects your car's engine from wear ...
Key takeaway First, the rising price of motor oil, the lubricating fluid that protects your car's engine from wear and tear, has "doubled per quart" for some brands, according to Matt Overbeck, owner of Overbeck Auto Services.
Why this matters in The Waco
For Waco drivers, the rising cost of oil changes is a tangible concern that hits close to home. With many residents relying on their vehicles for daily commutes and errands, the added expense of plastic oil drain plugs can be a significant burden. As local mechanic Matt Overbeck notes, the surcharge for replacing these plugs can range from $10 to $12, a substantial increase for a routine maintenance task. This change may also affect local auto shops, which will need to factor in the cost of these disposable plugs when pricing their services. As the city's residents navigate these increased costs, they may need to explore ways to offset the expense, such as seeking out coupons or loyalty discounts, or adjusting their maintenance schedules to minimize the frequency of oil changes. By understanding the local implications of this trend, Waco drivers can make informed decisions about their vehicle care and budget accordingly.
About this story
Original reporting by KXXV (ABC 25) News . The Waco surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KXXV (ABC 25) News . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 15, 2026 ·
Source: KXXV (ABC 25) News ·
Reading time: 3 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Oil changes that once cost $20 or $30 are now running drivers $80 to $100 or more. For some, the bill could be even higher depending on what's under the hood.Two factors are driving the increase.First, the rising price of motor oil, the lubricating fluid that protects your car's engine from wear ...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 15, 2026 by KXXV (ABC 25) News and curated for The Waco readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by John Matarese at KXXV (ABC 25) News. To learn more about how The Waco selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Waco, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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