Benny's handles both services in one visit, but they work differently
Benny's Car Wash and Oil Change is a combination service location where you can get your oil changed and your car washed during the same appointment. The oil change happens in the service bay — a technician drains your old oil, replaces the filter, and refills with new oil. The car wash is a separate process that typically happens after or before the service work, depending on the location's workflow and how busy they are that day.
The main advantage of a combination location is convenience: you drop off your car once, handle both services, and pick it up when both are complete. You don't need to drive to two different places or schedule two separate appointments. However, the time it takes varies depending on how many cars are ahead of you and whether the wash bays are running at full capacity.
Key Takeaways
- Benny's performs oil changes in a service bay and car washes in a separate wash area, so both services happen during your single visit.
- You should bring your vehicle's maintenance records or owner's manual so the technician knows what oil type and filter your car needs.
- Total time at Benny's typically ranges from 30 to 60 minutes depending on how busy the location is and whether you wait or drop off your car.
- The oil change service includes draining old oil, replacing the filter, and refilling with new oil; the wash includes exterior cleaning and usually a rinse.
What happens during the oil change at Benny's
When you arrive, you'll check in at the front desk and provide your vehicle information — make, model, year, and current mileage. The technician will ask what type of oil change you want (conventional, synthetic blend, or full synthetic) if you haven't already specified it. This matters because different oils cost different amounts and last different lengths of time before your next change.
The technician then moves your car into the service bay, lifts it on a hydraulic lift, and removes the drain plug underneath the engine. Old oil drains into a collection pan. Once empty, the technician replaces the oil filter (a cylindrical component that catches debris) with a new one, reinstalls the drain plug, and pours in the correct amount of new oil. The whole process usually takes 15 to 20 minutes if no complications arise.
Before returning your car, the technician checks the oil level with the dipstick to confirm it's at the right mark. Some locations also top off other fluids like coolant or windshield washer fluid at this time, though you may be charged extra for those services.
What happens during the car wash at Benny's
After the oil change is complete, your car moves to the wash area. Most Benny's locations use an automated tunnel wash system where your car drives through or is pulled through a series of brushes, jets, and rinse cycles. The exterior gets scrubbed, rinsed, and dried. Some locations also offer hand-wash options or additional services like undercarriage washing or wax coating, which cost more than the basic wash.
The entire wash cycle typically takes 5 to 10 minutes. If you've paid for a premium package, additional steps like tire shine or spot-free rinse may add a few more minutes. Your car exits the wash area clean and ready to drive.
How to prepare before you go to Benny's
Bring your vehicle keys and a form of payment — Benny's locations accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards. If you know your car's oil type and filter size, write it down or have your owner's manual handy. This speeds up the check-in process and ensures the technician uses exactly what your manufacturer recommends.
Remove any loose items from your car's interior, especially from the dashboard and cup holders, because the wash process can shift or splash water on them. If your car has a sunroof, make sure it's fully closed. If you have a roof rack or cargo carrier, let the attendant know before the wash begins so they can adjust the wash settings or hand-wash those areas.
Check your fuel level before arriving. You'll need enough gas to drive away after the service, and some locations may move your car around the lot during the process.
Timing and wait times at Benny's
Total time at Benny's ranges from 30 to 60 minutes depending on how busy the location is. The oil change itself takes 15 to 20 minutes, and the wash takes 5 to 10 minutes. The rest of the time is spent waiting for your turn in the service bay or wash tunnel, checking in, and checking out.
Peak hours are typically Saturday mornings and weekday evenings after work. If you go on a weekday afternoon, you'll usually wait less. Some Benny's locations let you wait in a customer lounge with seating and refreshments; others ask you to wait in your car or return to pick it up at a set time. Ask the attendant when you check in what the expected wait is and whether you can leave the premises.
What to ask about pricing and package options
Benny's offers different oil change packages — conventional oil is the least expensive, synthetic blend is mid-range, and full synthetic is the most expensive. Full synthetic lasts longer between changes (often 7,500 to 10,000 miles or more, depending on the brand) compared to conventional (usually 3,000 to 5,000 miles).
Car wash packages also vary. A basic exterior wash costs less than a premium package that includes undercarriage cleaning, tire shine, and wax. Ask the attendant at check-in what's included in each package and what the total cost will be before you commit. Some locations offer loyalty discounts or bundled pricing if you combine the oil change and wash.
Request an itemized receipt after you pay so you know exactly what service you received and what you were charged for. This is useful if you need to reference the service later or if you have questions about the bill.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wait inside while my oil change and wash are being done?
Most Benny's locations have a waiting area, but policies vary by location. Some have comfortable lounges with seating and Wi-Fi; others have minimal seating. Call ahead or ask when you arrive. Many customers choose to run errands nearby and return when the service is done, which the staff can tell you how long that will be.
What oil type should I choose if I'm not sure?
Check your owner's manual or the inside of your fuel door — the recommended oil type is usually listed there. If you can't find it, tell the technician your car's make, model, and year, and they can look it up. Conventional is fine for most older vehicles; newer cars often benefit from synthetic or synthetic blend.
Do I need to make an appointment or can I just walk in?
Most Benny's locations accept walk-ins, but calling ahead to ask about wait times is a good idea, especially on weekends. Some locations take appointments online or by phone, which can reduce your wait time. Check your local Benny's website or call the specific location to confirm their policy.
Will the car wash damage my car or remove wax I already have?
Automated tunnel washes are designed to be safe for most vehicles. They won't remove existing wax, though the brushes may reduce its effectiveness over time. If you're concerned about your car's finish, ask the attendant whether they offer a hand-wash option or a gentler wash cycle instead of the standard tunnel wash.
What if I need other services besides the oil change and wash?
Benny's locations typically focus on oil changes and car washes. If you need tire rotation, brake service, or other maintenance, ask the attendant whether they offer those services or can recommend a nearby shop. Some larger locations may have additional bays for other work, but not all do.