Yes, Save $30 to $100 Per Oil Change
You save $30 to $100 each time you do your own oil changes on a 2020 Mazda CX-3. Shops charge $50 to $150 for the job. DIY costs drop to $25 to $45 in parts after you buy tools one time. Most people change oil two to four times a year, so savings add up fast.
Your CX-3 needs 0W-20 full synthetic oil. It takes 4.2 quarts with a new filter. Mazda says change every 7,500 miles or 12 months for normal driving. Cut to 5,000 miles for short trips, hot weather, or cold starts.
Here is a cost breakdown:
| Item | Shop Cost | DIY Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Oil (0W-20, 4.2 qt) | $25 to $60 | $20 to $35 |
| Filter | $8 to $12 | $5 to $10 |
| Labor | $20 to $80 | $0 |
| Total | $50 to $150 | $25 to $45 |
Buy tools once for $50 to $80. Get a socket set, oil filter wrench, drain pan, funnel, gloves, and jack stands. The first change takes 30 to 60 minutes. Later ones go faster.
Quick DIY Steps
Follow these steps for a safe oil change:
- Warm the engine 3 to 5 minutes. Shut it off and wait 10 minutes.
- Park on level ground. Jack up the front and use jack stands at pinch welds.
- Remove the oil fill cap under the hood.
- Put a drain pan under the oil drain bolt. Use a 17 mm socket to loosen it.
- Drain oil 10 to 15 minutes. Replace the crush washer if needed.
- Tighten the drain bolt to 22 to 30 ft-lb. Check your owner's manual for the exact spec.
- Remove the old filter. Clean the mount. Rub oil on the new filter gasket.
- Screw on the new filter by hand until snug, then turn 3/4 more.
- Lower the car. Add 4.0 quarts of oil. Check the dipstick and top off to full.
- Run the engine 60 seconds. Check for leaks. Drive short and recheck level.
Tips for Success
- Pick Mazda-approved 0W-20 full synthetic oil and a good filter like OEM.
- Lay cardboard down. Keep rags and gloves handy for spills.
- Wear safety glasses. Always use jack stands, never just a jack.
- Reset the maintenance light. Log your miles to stay on track.
- Drop used oil and filter at an auto parts store for free recycling.
DIY works best if you have space and tools. Sidekick tracks your CX-3 maintenance and sends reminders for the next oil change.