Checklist before oil and filter change in winter

An oil change and filter replacement are among the most essential maintenance procedures to ensure the long life and reliability of your engine. At Mario Garage in Cagnes-sur-Mer, we always recommend our clients to prepare before visiting the workshop. Following a simple checklist saves time, prevents mistakes, and guarantees that your car receives the best possible service.

Why preparation is important

Every vehicle operates under different conditions. For some drivers, it’s daily traffic in the city of Nice; for others, it’s long drives along the Côte d’Azur or mountain roads in the Alpes-Maritimes. These factors directly affect the wear of oil and filters. Having the right information in advance allows our technicians to select the correct oil, determine the ideal maintenance interval, and carry out the service more efficiently.

Points to check before your appointment

• Service book or previous invoices
  These records help identify when the last oil change and filter replacement took place, ensuring proper maintenance and compliance with manufacturer requirements.

• Mileage and date of last service
  Even an approximate figure gives us insight into the oil’s condition and potential risks for the engine.

• Preferences regarding oil brand
  At Mario Garage, we exclusively use certified oils — Motul, Castrol, and Mobil — but we also respect manufacturer specifications and customer preferences.

• Replacing all filters together
  The oil filter is essential, but the air, cabin, and fuel filters are just as important. Neglecting them leads to higher fuel consumption, reduced engine performance, and less comfort in the cabin.

• Driving conditions
  Short city trips, heavy traffic in Antibes and Nice, dusty roads, or high-speed motorway driving all accelerate oil degradation. Sharing this information allows us to adapt the oil choice and service intervals to your car’s real needs.

Benefits of preparation

• Saves time during the appointment — technicians already know your car’s history.

• Guarantees a tailored service adapted to your vehicle.

• Reduces the risk of breakdowns or repeat visits.

• Ensures longer-lasting engine performance and reliability.

Related services

Engine repair
Regular oil changes prevent costly engine damage → Learn more
https://mariogarage.fr/en/diagnostic-moteur

Transmission and suspension repair
Inspection and repair for safe and reliable driving → Learn more
https://mariogarage.fr/en/reparation-transmission-suspension

Steering repair
Complete diagnostics and repair for comfort and safety → Learn more
https://mariogarage.fr/en/reparation-direction

Brake repair
Inspection and replacement of the brake system → Learn more
https://mariogarage.fr/en/reparation-freins

FAQ

How often should I change the oil?
On average every 10,000–15,000 km or once a year. For city driving or severe conditions, shorter intervals are recommended.

Do I need to replace all filters during an oil change?
The oil filter must always be replaced. Air, cabin, and fuel filters should also be changed regularly. We recommend replacing them together for optimal maintenance.

Can I bring my own oil?
Yes, but we only guarantee quality and warranty compliance with the certified oils we use — Motul, Castrol, and Mobil.

How long does the service take?
On average 40 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on the car model.

Do you service premium brands?
Yes, Mario Garage works with all brands, including BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volkswagen, as well as classic and sports cars.