I have been changing my oil for almost 20 years. I buy my oil by the case when it goes on sale and I buy filters the same way. I find the time spent is minimal compared to the time spent driving to the local “Jiffy” and waiting around for 20 mins and then driving back home. Total time out of the house to go to Jiffy is about 40 minutes. Total time, changing the oil in my driveway is about 10 mins. Changing my own oil also allows me to check other things. Over the years I have found a host of other things that needed repair (or were just starting to wear) such as worn belts, worn radiator hoses, worn steering parts, all sorts of fluid leaks to name just a few. Catching those things early helped keep the repair $$$ down.

One more tip to add…I lay a big sheet of cardboard (maybe 3’ x 6’) down under the engine. The cardboard is much more comfortable to lie on and makes sliding around a lot easier. It also catches any stray drips of oil. When the cardboard gets worn out, you can just chuck it. I prefer it over using my mechanics creeper. I cut the cardboard from a box that large appliances come in.