How much does an oil change cost?

A typical oil change runs about $40-$120 (parts + labor). Doing it yourself with synthetic oil and a filter lands near the low end; a dealer full-synthetic service is near the high end.

How much do brake pads cost to replace?

Brake pads are typically $150-$320 per axle including labor. The pads themselves are $30-$60; most of the cost is labor, so DIY saves the most on this job.

What Car Maintenance Actually Costs: Real Prices by Service (2026)

What car maintenance actually costs by service

Typical US parts-plus-labor price ranges: tire rotation $20-$60; engine air filter $20-$90; wiper blades $20-$70; cabin air filter $30-$80; oil change $40-$120; fuel filter $60-$180; wheel alignment $75-$200; differential fluid $80-$200; battery replacement $120-$320; brake pads (per axle) $150-$320; spark plugs $100-$320. DIY lands near the low end, dealer service near the high end. ServiceSage drivers also log what they actually paid, published per service once at least three owners have reported it.