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How to Change Your Oil⚓︎

Summary⚓︎

Changing the oil in your car is an essential part of regular vehicle maintenance. Here's a general step-by-step guide on how to change the oil in your car.

Attention

Please note that specific steps and requirements may vary depending on your vehicle's make and model, so consult your owner's manual for vehicle-specific instructions.

Tools and Materials You'll Need⚓︎

  • New oil filter
  • Engine oil (1)
  • Oil filter wrench
  • Oil drain pan
  • Funnel
  • Wrench/socket set
  • Jack and jack stands (if necessary)
  • Oil filter removal tool (optional)
  • Oil filter gasket (if needed)
  • Oil filter lubricant (if needed)
  1. Check your owner's manual for the recommended type and quantity

Step-by-Step Guide⚓︎

Safety Precautions

  • Ensure your car is parked on a level surface and the engine is cool.
  • Put on safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from hot oil and any potential splashes.

Prepare the Vehicle⚓︎

  • If your car is low to the ground, you may need to jack it up and secure it with jack stands. Follow your car's owner's manual for proper jacking points.
  • Engage the parking brake.

Locate the Oil Drain Plug⚓︎

The oil drain plug is usually located on the bottom of the engine oil pan. (1)

  1. Consult your owner's manual for its exact location.

Drain the Old Oil⚓︎

Attention

Be cautious as the oil may be hot.

  • Place the oil drain pan under the oil drain plug.
  • Using a wrench/socket, carefully loosen the oil drain plug.
  • Allow the old oil to drain completely into the pan.
  • Once it has finished draining, reinstall the oil drain plug and tighten it securely.

Remove the Old Oil Filter⚓︎

  • Locate the oil filter. It is usually located near the bottom of the engine, but its exact location can vary.
  • Use an oil filter wrench or removal tool if necessary to loosen and remove the old oil filter.
  • Be prepared for some oil to spill when removing the filter.
  • Before installing the new filter, make sure the old filter's gasket has been removed. If it's stuck to the engine, carefully remove it.

Prepare the New Oil Filter⚓︎

  • Apply a small amount of oil to the rubber gasket on the new oil filter.
  • This helps create a better seal and makes it easier to remove the filter during the next oil change.

Install the New Oil Filter⚓︎

  • Screw the new oil filter onto the engine by hand until it's snug.
  • Tighten the filter an additional ¾ to 1 full turn. Consult the filter's instructions for specific guidance.

Add New Engine Oil⚓︎

  • Using a funnel, pour the recommended amount and type of engine oil into the oil filler cap.
  • Check the oil level using the dipstick to ensure it's within the recommended range.

Check for Leaks⚓︎

  • Start the engine and let it run for a minute or two.
  • Check underneath the car for any oil leaks around the drain plug and oil filter.

Dispose of the Old Oil and Filter⚓︎

  • Properly dispose of the old oil and oil filter at a recycling center or an auto parts store that accepts used oil.

Record the Maintenance⚓︎

  • Keep a record of the date and mileage when you changed the oil. This helps track future maintenance intervals.

Lower the Vehicle (if necessary)⚓︎

  • If you raised the vehicle, carefully lower it using the jack and remove the jack stands.

Conclusion⚓︎

Changing your car's oil is an important task to keep your engine running smoothly. If you're unsure about any step, consult the owner's manual or seek the assistance of a qualified mechanic. Additionally, ensure you follow local regulations for the disposal of used oil and filters.

References⚓︎