Changing Your Car's Oil and Oil Filter: A Step-by-Step Guide

Regular oil changes are essential for maintaining the health and longevity of your vehicle's engine. The oil lubricates the engine's moving parts, minimizing friction, and reducing wear. Over time, the oil can become contaminated, reducing its effectiveness, and leading to engine damage. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of changing your car's oil and oil filter, ensuring that you can keep your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently.

 

What You'll Need

 

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials:

 

The correct engine oil for your vehicle (refer to your owner's manual)

A new oil filter.

An oil drain pan

A socket wrenches.

An oil filter wrench

A funnel

A clean rag or towel

A jack and jack stands (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide

 

Step 1: Prepare Your Vehicle

 

Park your vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. If you need more room to work under the car, use a jack to lift the front end and secure it with jack stands. Never work under a car supported only by a jack, as it can be unstable and dangerous.

 

Step 2: Locate the Oil Drain Plug

 

Consult your owner's manual to locate the oil drain plug, which is usually located on the bottom of the engine's oil pan. Place the oil drain pan beneath the plug to catch the used oil.

 

Step 3: Remove the Oil Drain Plug

 

Using a socket wrench, remove the oil drain plug by turning it counter clockwise. Be prepared for the oil to flow out quickly. Allow the oil to drain completely, which can take several minutes.

 

Step 4: Locate and Remove the Old Oil Filter

 

Find the oil filter, which is usually a cylindrical component attached to the side of the engine. Place the oil drain pan underneath the filter to catch any oil that may spill. Using an oil filter wrench, turn the filter counter clockwise to loosen and remove it.

 

Step 5: Prepare the New Oil Filter

 

Before installing the new oil filter, apply a thin layer of fresh engine oil to the rubber gasket on the filter's rim. This will help create a better seal between the filter and the engine.

 

Step 6: Install the New Oil Filter

 

Thread the new oil filter onto the engine by hand, turning it clockwise. Tighten it securely, but avoid over-tightening, as this can damage the filter or the engine.

 

Step 7: Replace the Oil Drain Plug

 

After the old oil has drained completely, wipe the drain plug and the surrounding area clean with a rag. Reinstall the oil drain plug, turning it clockwise until tight. Be careful not to overtighten, as this can strip the threads or damage the oil pan.

 

Step 8: Add Fresh Engine Oil

 

Locate the oil filler cap on the top of the engine and remove it. Place a funnel in the opening and pour the recommended amount of engine oil into the engine. Refer to your owner's manual for the correct oil type and capacity. Replace the oil filler cap once you've added the appropriate amount of oil.

 

Step 9: Check the Oil Level

 

Start the engine and let it run for a minute to circulate the new oil. Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle. Pull out the oil dipstick, wipe it clean, then reinsert it and remove it again. The oil level should be between the "min" and "max" markings on the dipstick. If necessary, add more oil to reach the correct level.

 

Step 10: Clean Up and Dispose of Used Oil