RW
Ross Walther
Sep 2, 2026
Valvoline Instant Oil Change in Grand Forks charged me for one of the most predatory upsells I’ve ever experienced. I went in for a routine service, and the technician immediately insisted I “needed” a full radiator flush because my coolant was “really low.” That claim was suspicious from the start — my vehicle had a new OEM water pump installed less than nine months ago at an authorized Ford dealership, and the coolant was replaced at that time.
Despite that, they pushed a $169.99 radiator flush and drained pristine, nine‑month‑old Ford OEM coolant, replacing it with their universal/multi‑vehicle coolant — a product Ford explicitly states it does not approve. Using an unapproved coolant can jeopardize my dealership repair warranty, and they never disclosed that risk.
This wasn’t just an unnecessary service. It was a predatory, warranty‑risking upsell that cost me money and potentially created future problems. I will not be returning, and I strongly urge others to be cautious about the aggressive upselling at this location.
UPDATE-9/3/26
After posting my initial review, the manager from Valvoline Instant Oil Change in Grand Forks called me. I let him fully explain Valvoline’s “process” without interrupting. When it was my turn to explain what happened — specifically that I felt predatory upselling tactics were used — he immediately tried to interrupt. I asked him not to.
I continued and stated clearly that I wanted to be reimbursed for the unnecessary radiator flush they performed. He refused.
I then told him I was considering contacting the North Dakota Attorney General’s Office regarding the situation. He interrupted again and asked if I was going to try to sue Valvoline. I corrected him and repeated that I was considering contacting the NDAG.
At that point, he cut me off and said:
“I’m shutting this down. I’m shutting this down.”
That was the end of the call.
This interaction only reinforced my original concern: the upsell was PREDATORY, the service was UNNECESSARY, and the follow‑up conversation was DISMISSIVE and UNPROFESSIONAL. I stand by my request for reimbursement and will be pursuing further action.
After Valvoline Instant Oil Change in Grand Forks acknowledged their mistake and told me I would be reimbursed, the follow‑through has been nothing short of unacceptable. On 9/9/26, I received a call stating that my reimbursement was approved, the paperwork would be submitted, and a check would be mailed. The supervisor even verified my mailing address, leaving me with the clear impression that the issue was finally being resolved.
On 9/18/26, after hearing nothing, I called for an update. I was told the check had been mailed on 9/17/26.
It is now 9/22/26, and no check has arrived.
At this point, the pattern is obvious: inconsistent information, empty assurances, and a complete lack of accountability. If Valvoline claims the check was mailed, they should be able to provide a check number, mailing method, and verification. Instead, I’m left waiting for a reimbursement they promised but have yet to deliver.
This reimbursement process has been slow, disorganized, and unprofessional. Customers deserve transparency and reliability — neither of which Valvoline has shown throughout this experience. NO stars as of 9/22/26
🌸UPDATE🌸
After several delays, conflicting information, and a frustrating lack of clarity, the reimbursement check finally arrived in the mail today, 9/23/26. While I appreciate that the refund was ultimately issued, the process to get here was far more drawn‑out and inconsistent than it should have been.
Experiences like this are a reminder that one learns from situations like these — both as a customer and, hopefully, as a business. I genuinely hope Valvoline uses this as an opportunity to improve their communication, follow‑through, and overall customer service so others don’t have to go through the same ordeal.