Fast Lube places, how do they do it?

[wildcard50]

how do places like jiffy lube, green+ ross and other do their oil changes for so cheap? i have seen places even advertise like 15 dollars for oil and filter change.considering that the dealer charges 50 + or even if i buy the my own oil and filter and change it myself i can't beat that price, i can't see how they are making their profit as a company.I understand they are buying thier parts in bulk and maybe they are not using the most qualified technicians
but still are they cost cutting in ways the consumer does not know?

[peterm15]

I haven't seen an oil and filter for $15 ( even group buys) in MANY years.

Bulk product + cheap labour + quantity of oil changes done = dirt cheap prices.

It's like group buys on this forum. Multiplied by 1000

Plus there is always up-selling.

[Jackal]

Usually it's cheap for the first one to get you to try it.
Once they show you how convenient it is then without the rebates I think it's just a bit cheaper than dealership prices. They then send you the occasional deal online to keep you coming back. And as Peter said there is up selling of their other services and products such as air filters, other fluids, seafoam type products, fuel additives to clean fuel line etc.

[lcianf01]

I agree the oil change is pretty much a lost leader to get your in the door. Plus i wouldn't doubt some shops don't even change the filter.

[Genpu_Mz3]

recycled oil from safety clean

[Johns 08 3 GT]

And low labour costs. I worked at a Mr. Lube way back in the day and never understood how all 3 bays have a tech each upstairs, but its only one guy running around in the basement draining all the oil for the cars. When its busy its no wonder mistakes happen. :facepalm

[midnightfxgt]

Not too mention, that the dirt cheap price is generally for dino oil. There is additional fees for Semi and Full Synthetics.

-John