How to Change Your Oil: 7 Easy Steps

Difficulty: Beginner
Estimated time: 60 minutes

Changing the oil in a car is an important part of routine maintenance that can help keep the engine running smoothly and extend the life of the vehicle. Below are 7 easy steps to changing your own oil.

Tools/Supplies Needed

• Funnel
• Gloves (recommended)
• Shop towels (recommended)
• Jack stands
• Floor Jack (or emergency jack provided with vehicle)
• Metric Socket Set and Wrench
• Drain Pan
• Engine Oil
• Oil Filter
• Oil Additive (optional)

Here are the basic steps to follow:

1. Gather your supplies: You will need a new oil filter, fresh oil, an oil filter wrench, a socket wrench or adjustable wrench, a funnel, and a drain pan.
2. Locate the oil filter and drain plug: Your owner’s manual can help you find these parts on your specific vehicle.
3. Drain the old oil: Place the drain pan beneath the drain plug and use a socket wrench or adjustable wrench to remove the plug. Allow the oil to drain completely.
4. Replace the oil filter: Use the oil filter wrench to remove the old filter and replace it with the new one. Make sure to lubricate the rubber seal with a bit of fresh oil.
5. Refill with fresh oil: Use the funnel to add the correct amount of fresh oil to the engine. Refer to your owner’s manual for the correct type and amount of oil to use.
6. Check the oil level: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Then turn off the engine and check the oil level with the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary.
7. Clean up: Dispose of the old oil and filter properly, and clean up any spills or drips.

Tips

Use the correct type of oil: Consult your car’s owner manual to determine the correct type of oil to use for your car. Using the wrong type of oil can cause damage to your engine.

You can find information on types of oil (including your specific vehicle) at Haynes or follow this link:

https://haynes.com/en-us/tips-tutorials/what-engine-oil-made-and-what-type-do-you-need

• Warm up the engine: As mentioned earlier, warming up the engine before changing the oil helps the oil flow more easily and drain faster.

• Use the correct tools: Make sure you have all the necessary tools, including an oil filter wrench, a drain pan, a funnel, a new oil filter, and new oil. Using the wrong tools can make the job more difficult and increase the risk of injury.

• Be careful with hot oil: The oil can be very hot, so use caution when removing the drain plug and handling the oil pan. Wear gloves and wait for the oil to cool down before handling it.

• Dispose of the old oil properly: As mentioned earlier, old oil is hazardous waste and should not be thrown in the trash or poured down the drain. Take the used oil to a recycling center or an auto parts store that accepts used oil.

• By keeping these things in mind, you can change the oil in your car safely and effectively, ensuring that your engine runs smoothly and lasts a long time.