Changing your oil is something the pros promise they can do in a jiffy, however, with every three thousand miles you drive, the price can add up quickly. You can save yourself some money by doing it yourself. An oil change is not as difficult as you think!
Before you change your oil, you’ll need to pick up a few supplies at your favorite parts store. The first thing you’ll need is six quarts of oil. If your car manufacturer recommends a certain type, you should stick to it. Otherwise, choose a brand you know and trust. (Note: Do not mix oil. If you already have a quart or two of one brand at home, be sure to purchase additional quarts of the same type.) With every oil change, you should always change the oil filter as well. Therefore, you will also need to purchase an oil filter for your particular car. Also, you will need an oil pan to drain the old oil. Your best bet is to buy one that you can seal so you can easily take it to recycling. And, if you don’t already have one, you could use an oil filter wrench.
After purchasing the necessary items, you are ready to begin your oil change. First, raise the vehicle off the ground with the car jack, enough to access the bottom of the engine. (Note: For added safety, be sure to use a jack stand.) Remove the engine oil filler cap. Then get under the engine. The oil pan covers the entire bottom of the engine, and this is what will drain. Find the engine pan drain plug, which is hexagonal in shape (six sides). Put the oil pan you bought under it. Next, use a socket wrench to loosen the drain plug. The oil will start to come out. Let this drain completely. Once drained, replace the plug and tighten.
Next, move the drain pan so that it is under the oil filter. Use your oil filter wrench to turn the filter counterclockwise until it comes off. Once loosened, you will need to unscrew it from the motor with your hands. Once off, place it in the oil pan; the oil will drip from the filter. Now, it’s time to put on the new filter. When you remove the new filter from the box, you will see a rubber gasket at the base. A good trick for easy removal in the future is to completely cover the gasket with oil. When you’re done, screw the new filter firmly onto the filter tube.
At this point, you’re done under, so you can lower the car. But first, get the oil pan and any tools out from under the vehicle. Next, fill the engine with five quarts of oil and replace the cap. Then check the oil level. You should see that it is a quart high, and this is only because the filter is not full yet. Next, start the car and let the engine idle for about five minutes. This will allow the oil pump to pick up the new oil and circulate it. Also, check under the car to make sure the filter is not leaking oil. You can then turn off the car and check the oil level one more time. This time it should say “full”.
You’re done! Simply repeat these instructions within 3,000 miles!
