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Frequent oil changes are one of the most basic, but most important car maintenance tasks that will keep your car running well for years to come. While it is a good idea to get your oil changed by your mechanic, and to have your other fluids, tire pressure, and engine all checked at the same time, it is good to know how to change your own oil. Once you learn to change your own oil, all you will need are some tools and a little bit of time. And of course, the right tools, including:
Car jack
Jack stands
A set of sockets and ratchet
Oil filter wrench
An empty container to catch the oil
New quarts of oil (the specific amount depends on your car)
New oil filter (check your owner’s manual)
Funnel
Old rags (to wipe off any oil spills)
IMPORTANT: Make sure the car has been off for a few hours before you start so the oil can cool down otherwise you can get severely burned.
Steps:
1. Use the car jack and put the jacks stands under the jack points. Once the car is lowered onto the jacks, give your car a little nudge to ensure its stable.
2. Put the empty container to catch the oil under the engine/oil pan and find the drain plug (looks like a big bolt). Find the correct socket size and remove the plug.
3. After the oil has been drained completely, reinsert and tighten the plug but but be careful not to over tighten.
4. Locate the old oil filter and use the oil filter wrench to take it off. Be careful as there will be old oil in it and will spill out, so make sure there is something to catch it.
5. Open the new oil filter and a bottle of oil. Dip your finger in the bottle and lubricate the rubber gasket around the top of the filter. Pour a small amount of oil into the filter and rotate to coat the inside.
6. Now you can install the new oil filter. Do not use any tools to tighten it on – hand tightening is good enough.
7. Unscrew the oil cap on top of your engine and put the funnel in. Look at the owner’s manual to find out how much oil you need to use.
8. Replace the cap, turn on the engine and let the car idle for a few minutes. Check for leaks and use your dipstick to measure if you’ve poured enough oil in. Fill more if necessary.
9. Lower your car back to it’s original position and you’re ready to go.
Following proper oil change and maintenance requirements will extend the life of your car, and make sure that you are driving safely all the time!