DIY Car Maintenance: How to Change Your Car's Oil
Changing your car’s oil is one of the most essential maintenance tasks you can do to keep your vehicle running smoothly. While it may seem daunting, it’s easier than you think—and can save you money while helping you understand your car better. This guide will walk you through the process so you can confidently tackle your following oil change.
Why Regular Oil Changes Matter
Regular oil changes are crucial to keeping your engine in good health. Oil lubricates the moving parts of your engine, reduces friction, and keeps everything running smoothly. Over time, oil can break down, get dirty, and lose its effectiveness, which can cause engine wear and even lead to costly repairs. By changing your oil regularly, you’re helping to prevent these problems, prolonging your engine's life, and ensuring your car stays reliable.
Benefits of Doing It Yourself
Changing your own oil not only saves you money but also gives you a better understanding of how your car works. You can avoid paying labor fees at a mechanic shop, and you might even feel a sense of accomplishment when you finish the job. Plus, by handling your own oil change, you know exactly what type of oil goes into your car and can ensure everything is done correctly.
Safety Precautions and Tools You'll Need
Before getting started, it’s important to gather the right tools and follow safety guidelines to ensure the process goes smoothly.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- New oil (refer to your car's manual to get the right type and amount)
- New oil filter
- Oil filter wrench
- Socket wrench set
- Funnel
- Oil pan (to catch the old oil)
- Jack and jack stands (or ramps if your car sits low)
- Gloves (to keep your hands clean)
- Old newspapers or cardboard (to protect your driveway or garage floor from oil spills)
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Oil
1. Prepare Your Car
Start by parking your car on a flat, level surface to prevent it from rolling or shifting. Turn off the engine and apply the parking brake. If your car sits low to the ground, you’ll need to raise it using a jack and secure it with jack stands. Be sure to consult your car’s manual if you’re unsure where to safely place the jack.
2. Locate the Oil Drain Plug and Oil Filter
Next, locate the oil drain plug and the oil filter under your car. Your car’s manual will show you exactly where they are. The oil drain plug is usually located on the bottom of the engine oil pan, while the oil filter may be on the side of the engine.
3. Drain the Old Oil
Place your oil pan under the drain plug to catch the old oil. Using a socket wrench, unscrew the drain plug carefully (the oil might be hot if the engine was recently running). Let the oil drain out completely, which may take a few minutes. Once it's done, screw the drain plug back in by hand, then use the wrench to give it a snug fit, but avoid overtightening.
4. Replace the Oil Filter
Now it's time to replace the oil filter. Locate the old filter and use an oil filter wrench to unscrew it. Before installing the new filter, lightly coat its rubber gasket with fresh oil to ensure a proper seal. Screw on the new filter by hand until it’s snug, and then tighten it about a quarter-turn more—no need to overdo it.
5. Add New Oil
Once the old oil is out and the new filter is on, it’s time to add fresh oil. Locate the oil filler cap on top of the engine and unscrew it. Using a funnel, pour the new oil in slowly, referring to your manual for the correct amount. Once you’ve added the oil, use the dipstick to check the level, ensuring it falls within the recommended range.
6. Finish Up
Replace the oil filler cap securely. If you raised the car earlier, lower it back down. Start the engine and let it run for about a minute. This circulates the new oil throughout the engine. After shutting off the engine, check for leaks around the drain plug and oil filter. Finally, check the oil level one last time with the dipstick to ensure everything is correct.
After the Oil Change
Once you're finished, be sure to properly dispose of the old oil by taking it to a recycling center or an auto parts store that accepts used oil. Never pour it down the drain or throw it in the trash.
If your car has an oil life monitor, reset it so you’ll know when the next oil change is due. And don’t forget to write down the mileage and the date so you can keep track of when the next oil change should happen.
Conclusion
By changing your own oil, you’re saving money, learning about your car, and taking an important step in maintaining its health. Once you’ve mastered this task, you might want to explore other DIY car maintenance jobs, like replacing air filters or brake pads. However, if you’re ever in doubt or unsure about something, don’t hesitate to consult a professional mechanic.
Additional Tips
- How often you need to change your oil depends on your driving habits and the type of oil you use. Many cars today can go 5,000 to 7,500 miles between oil changes, but check your owner’s manual for specifics.
- If you notice dark or dirty oil, excessive engine noise, or a dashboard warning light, these could be signs that you need an oil change sooner than expected.
- Always choose the right oil for your car, whether it's synthetic, conventional, or a blend. Your manual will guide you on this, as well as the proper viscosity for your engine.
Changing your own oil is an easy, rewarding way to take care of your car—and with this guide, you're ready to get started!
