A Texas man’s routine oil change turned into a potential safety nightmare after he discovered a flammable leak in his brake system after he says he visited 5 oil change locations.
TikTok creator James (@cjames_tx702) shared his alarming discovery in a 26-second video that has garnered more than 15,900 views since it was posted on November 5.
The 6,100-subscriber channel, which usually features episodes of the creator’s life with some political content, took a decidedly automotive turn when he documented his oil change service after experiencing brake problems.
A dangerous discovery
In the video, James shows viewers the wheel of his car before revealing an oil-soaked rag that he pulled from its brake system. His reaction was immediate and intense.
“Do 5 oil changes,” he said in the video. “I’m driving. It’s all a whirlwind. I hear a noise. My brakes aren’t doing a great job. Stop at a gas station. Take out the ((clear)) brake pads here. Ever since I changed my oil the other day. This is insane. My (dissolito) is stuck between my rotors and my brake pads.”
The discovery came when he noticed his car wasn’t performing normally while driving, with unusual noises and compromised brake performance prompting him to investigate at a gas station.
Safety implications
The presence of a tear in the brake system represents a serious safety hazard that can have catastrophic consequences. The brake system operates under extreme heat and pressure, and foreign objects can interfere with the friction between the brake pads and rotors, which is necessary to stop power.
Under normal conditions, brake components reach temperatures between 250°F and 300°F, but during heavy braking or when overheating, temperatures can rise to 600°F to 700°F. At these elevated temperatures, brake systems can experience brake wear. Excessive heat build-up can lead to brake fade caused by brake pads, rotors, and calipers.
In the comments, James elaborated on the potential risks: “Having a rag on your brakes could be a death sentence. My car might be set on fire with my kid in there.”
Oil-soaked materials can pose a number of hazards, including reduced braking performance, overheating of brake components, and, in extreme cases, a fire hazard due to the flammable nature of the oil-soaked fabric generated by the high temperatures generated during braking.
Although motor oil itself does not undergo spontaneous combustion like vegetable-based oils, oil-soaked rags are highly flammable and pose a fire hazard when exposed to external heat sources. Brake fluid is moderately flammable and can ignite at temperatures above 500°F, which may reach the brake system during normal operation.
How did this happen?
One particularly revealing comment came from user MG_Z71, who pointed out the origin of the melody: “It’s also a hospital rip that shouldn’t have been in that shop from Cintas Lol.” This observation indicates that the shop is using inappropriate cleaning materials during service.
James confirmed the detail, writing, “Yes when I went back even when I went back he knew it happened that day they only found those rags that morning.”
This timeline indicates that the chord was introduced to his vehicle during an oil change service, when technicians may have been cleaning components or their hands and inadvertently left a rag in the brake area.
Shop Answer
Techtalk’s creator didn’t let the incident slide without confronting the business. He returned to location 5 the same day to resolve the issue with management.
“Yes I went back to the store the same day. The area manager was great. The store manager thinks I already filed a claim with them. So let’s see if they actually do something about it.”
He further explained the mixed response from management: “I went back the same day. The area manager was there and was professional about the situation and his ability to make a big issue. The store manager’s kid for that matter didn’t seem like my car could catch on fire with my kids there etc. Very unprofessional.”
The community shares similar experiences
The video hit a nerve with viewers, many of whom shared their negative experiences with 5 and other Quick Lob chains. The comments section became a repository of cautionary tales about the dangers of quick oil change services.
“5 has never been a place to go,” wrote user Amelia Alcocer.
User Q shared a particularly costly mistake: “They had to pay my son 5000 because they forgot to put the oil cap back on.”
Several commenters reported cases in various locations in Texas. Trina 444 wrote, “5 in Round Rock put a hole in my daughter’s oil pan,” while Ayers added, “5 in Hutto totally ruined my engine.”
The problems weren’t limited to just one chain, with users sharing horror stories from other Quicklube services.
Motor 1 Email for comment. If the answer is yes, we will update this article.
DIY alternatives
Many commenters advocated self-service as the safest option. “That’s why I do my own oil changes and brakes,” wrote Ricardo Rodriguez.
James replied, “That’s fair. I usually do but my schedule has been crazy and it had to be done.” He later added, “I was working 18-hour days recently and had a window of time to get it done. Last time I’d take it anywhere.”
For Volkswagen owners in particular, commenter Alison V. Moffat emphasized the importance of proper service: “First of all you have a VW and you’re taking it for a 5? This towel will be the least of your problems down the road. Lecomoli or OEM VW spec oil only, and you need a new single-use drain plug.”
The creator replied that he was aware of his vehicle’s specific needs: “I’ve owned 9 VWs. I made sure they used European spec oil. Mobil 1 makes a great oil for VWs. It’s going for 75K maintenance at VW this week so we’ll see.”
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Industry-wide concerns
The incident highlights wider concerns about the quick-lube industry, where speed and volume can sometimes compromise attention to detail. Several commenters shared experiences with tools in engine bays, improperly tightening drain plugs, and other oversights that could lead to costly repairs or safety hazards. Industry analysis shows that quick-lube shops prioritize speed and volume over full-service, with a business model built on getting as many vehicles in and out of service cells as quickly as possible.
According to automotive industry sources, many quick-lube technicians have minimal automotive experience, with some entering the field from completely unrelated industries, which can lead to problems like drain plugs and blown engines. Common mistakes at Quick Lube facilities include forgetting to replace oil filler caps, improperly torquing drain plugs, and leaving engine bays without proper inspection.
User Dres Dedingon shared a particularly costly experience: “Forgot to cap my radiator cap after checking fluids while doing 5 oil changes on Balcones Drive and caused thousands of dollars worth of damage to the car. We were going out of town and had to rent a car because we were stranded on the side of the road.”
Looking for alternatives
Several Texas-based commenters made recommendations for more reliable service providers. Several users endorsed Pefast Lub locations in the area, while others suggested specific independent shops.
“Longhorn Castrol in Pflegerville is great! The guy who started it with his kids before Groovy’s went live and I’ve always known him to be an honest and straightforward guy,” recommended user Samsonson.
This incident serves as a reminder to vehicle owners to thoroughly inspect their cars after any service work and to research service providers carefully. As James’ experience shows, even routine maintenance can be dangerous when proper procedures are not followed.
Motor 1 TechTalk reached out to James via direct message for additional comment. We’ll be sure to update him if he responds.
