Regular oil changes are a great way to ensure your car has a long and healthy life. Unfortunately, many people are susceptible to getting scammed during an oil change because they don't know much about their cars. The state of California has now reached a $5 million settlement with EZ Lube over such a scam. Customers would initially come in for a $25 oil change. But EZ Lube employees had quotas to meet and weren't allowed to let customers go until they billed them a minimum of $75 for unnecessary work.

Here's how to avoid becoming a victim: First, you need to know that most cars get major regularly scheduled maintenance every 15,000 miles. So when you bring your vehicle in for an oil change, just bunt when you're told you need some hardware or repair that completely baffles you. Pay for the oil change, make a note of what you're told you need and tell the person you'll get it fixed during your next major service checkup. Major service can be done either at a car dealership service center or at an independent shop that specializes in your brand of vehicle. Clark prefers the latter.