How to Change Your Oil: A Detailed Step-by-Step Guide for People Who Don’t Like This Stuff

how to change your vehicle oil

Changing your oil might seem intimidating if you’ve never worked with your hands or done any car maintenance before. But don’t worry — with this comprehensive guide, you’ll be equipped with everything you need to change your oil confidently.

What You’ll Need:

  1. New Engine Oil: Check your car’s manual for the recommended type (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-40). Make sure it’s the right amount; typically, 4-5 quarts for most vehicles. Get your oil here.
  2. New Oil Filter: Ensure it matches the specifications of your car model.
  3. Oil Drain Pan: This is essential for collecting the old oil.
  4. Wrench or Oil Filter Tool: To remove the drain plug and the old oil filter.
  5. Funnel: To make pouring new oil easier.
  6. Rags or Paper Towels: For cleaning up any spills or drips.
  7. Rubber Gloves: To keep your hands clean and protect against oil residue.
  8. Car Jack & Jack Stands: Safety first! Use these to raise your car securely, or use a car ramp.
  9. Wheel Wedges: To prevent the car from rolling while it’s lifted.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Park Your Car on a Level Surface

Make sure your car is parked on flat, solid ground. Engage the parking brake, and if you’re working on an automatic transmission, make sure it’s in “Park.”

2. Gather Your Tools and Supplies

Before you begin, make sure everything you need is within reach. This prevents unnecessary trips to the store or garage.

3. Raise Your Car (If Necessary)

Use the car jack to lift your vehicle off the ground and set up your jack stands securely. If you’re using a car ramp, drive your car up the ramp and make sure it’s stable. Always use wheel wedges behind the tires to prevent any accidental rolling.

4. Locate the Drain Plug and Oil Filter

Open your car’s hood and identify the engine area. The drain plug is usually located at the lowest point of the oil pan (under the car), and the oil filter is typically found on the side of the engine block. Consult your car’s manual if you’re having trouble locating them.

5. Place the Oil Drain Pan

Position the oil drain pan directly underneath the drain plug to catch the old oil. Make sure it’s centered to avoid spills.

6. Drain the Old Oil

Using your wrench, carefully unscrew the drain plug by turning it counterclockwise. Be ready for the oil to start flowing immediately. Let the oil drain completely, which usually takes 5-10 minutes. Be patient, as this ensures all the old oil is removed.

7. Remove the Old Oil Filter

While the oil is draining, use an oil filter tool or your hand (with a rag for grip) to unscrew the oil filter. Some oil may still drain out when you remove the filter, so keep your oil drain pan positioned underneath. Make sure to wipe any excess oil from the engine area once it’s removed.

8. Prepare the New Oil Filter

Before installing the new oil filter, apply a bit of new oil to the rubber seal on the top of the filter. This helps create a secure seal and makes it easier to remove later.

9. Install the New Oil Filter

Screw the new oil filter into place by hand until it’s snug. Do not over-tighten, as this can damage the seal and lead to leaks.

10. Reinstall the Drain Plug

Put the drain plug back in and tighten it securely with your wrench. Be careful not to over-tighten, as this can strip the threads or damage the oil pan.

11. Add New Oil

Using your funnel, pour the new oil into the engine. Start with a small amount and check the level periodically using the dipstick (remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert, then remove again to check the oil level). Add oil until you reach the “Full” mark on the dipstick. Be cautious not to overfill, as too much oil can cause engine damage.

12. Check for Leaks

Start your car and let it run for a minute or two. Look under the car and around the oil filter for any signs of leaks. If you spot any, turn off the engine and make adjustments to the filter or plug as needed.

13. Lower Your Car

Carefully lower your car back to the ground using the jack and jack stands. If you used a ramp, slowly drive down the ramp with caution.

14. Dispose of Old Oil Properly

Take the old oil to an auto parts store, recycling center, or a facility that accepts used oil. Never pour oil down a drain or throw it in the trash; it’s harmful to the environment.

15. Clean Up

Wipe down any oil spills with rags or paper towels. Ensure your workspace is clean and free from any oily residues.

Pro Tips for Millennials:

  • Wear Old Clothes: You’re bound to get some oil on you, even if you’re careful.
  • Use a DIY Oil Change Kit: Some kits come with everything you need, making it easier for first-timers.
  • Watch a Video: Sometimes seeing someone else do it can make the process clearer. Look for a tutorial that matches your car model.
  • Don’t Rush: Take your time and follow each step carefully to avoid mistakes.
  • Get Help: If you’re unsure, ask a friend or family member with experience to assist or supervise your first attempt.

Final Thoughts:

Changing your oil is a skill that not only saves you money but also helps you better understand and care for your car. With a bit of practice, it’ll become a routine part of your car maintenance. As always, Garage Works keeps you in the know!

Share this content:

59 comments

comments user
drover sointeru

I got what you intend, regards for putting up.Woh I am glad to find this website through google.

comments user
🔐 You have a transaction from our company. Withdrаw > https://telegra.ph/Message–2868-12-25?hs=555e635398b74b14cbb7c5eb1a32196a& 🔐

eaq3a0

comments user
📆 Reminder- Transfer №WG34. GET =>> https://telegra.ph/Message–2868-12-25?hs=555e635398b74b14cbb7c5eb1a32196a& 📆

oky0fx

comments user
📫 + 0.75403604 BTC.NEXT – https://telegra.ph/Ticket–6974-01-15?hs=555e635398b74b14cbb7c5eb1a32196a& 📫

dma1bs

comments user
🛡 You have 1 message(-s) № 643804. Read >>> https://telegra.ph/Get-BTC-right-now-01-22?hs=555e635398b74b14cbb7c5eb1a32196a& 🛡

wjpv4g

comments user
🗒 You have received 1 message(-s) # 485292. Open – https://telegra.ph/Get-BTC-right-now-01-22?hs=555e635398b74b14cbb7c5eb1a32196a& 🗒

r0kbbj

comments user
🔓 Notification: Process #DW24. RECEIVE => https://graph.org/GET-BITCOIN-TRANSFER-02-23-2?hs=555e635398b74b14cbb7c5eb1a32196a& 🔓

rha1rz

comments user
🛡 Notification: Process №EI11. ASSURE => https://telegra.ph/Binance-Support-02-18?hs=555e635398b74b14cbb7c5eb1a32196a& 🛡

ifo2mo

comments user
📌 Ticket- Transaction №SD24. GET => https://graph.org/GET-BITCOIN-TRANSFER-02-23-2?hs=555e635398b74b14cbb7c5eb1a32196a& 📌

jyv8cr

comments user
🛎 You got a transaction from us. Gо tо withdrаwаl >> https://telegra.ph/Binance-Support-02-18?hs=555e635398b74b14cbb7c5eb1a32196a& 🛎

k1jt91

comments user
📲 + 0.75191195 BTC.NEXT – https://graph.org/GET-BITCOIN-TRANSFER-02-23-2?hs=555e635398b74b14cbb7c5eb1a32196a& 📲

93y7bd

comments user
🔓 + 1.643152 BTC.NEXT – https://graph.org/Message–04804-03-25?hs=555e635398b74b14cbb7c5eb1a32196a& 🔓

i5nz71

comments user
📏 Notification; Operation 1,344749 bitcoin. Assure =>> https://graph.org/Message–05654-03-25?hs=555e635398b74b14cbb7c5eb1a32196a& 📏

w0rwmh

comments user
Linda590

Very good https://shorturl.at/2breu

comments user
🔓 Message- Operation 1.377004 bitcoin. Get >>> https://graph.org/Message–120154-03-25?hs=555e635398b74b14cbb7c5eb1a32196a& 🔓

0nl9ni

comments user
Elsa1250

Very good https://lc.cx/xjXBQT

comments user
Adrienne3010

Good https://lc.cx/xjXBQT

comments user
💻 Ticket; + 1.767116 bitcoin. Continue >> https://graph.org/Message–04804-03-25?hs=555e635398b74b14cbb7c5eb1a32196a& 💻

8xnp0o

comments user
🔋 Email: TRANSACTION 1,544021 BTC. GET =>> https://graph.org/Message–04804-03-25?hs=555e635398b74b14cbb7c5eb1a32196a& 🔋

t7cusx

comments user
Deborah2180

Good https://rb.gy/4gq2o4

comments user
Jeff4492

Good https://is.gd/N1ikS2

comments user
Clara2204

Good https://is.gd/N1ikS2

comments user
Priscilla720

Very good https://is.gd/N1ikS2

comments user
📬 + 1.278639 BTC.GET – https://graph.org/Binance-04-20-5?hs=555e635398b74b14cbb7c5eb1a32196a& 📬

y5v5c5

comments user
Carolina2115

Very good https://is.gd/N1ikS2

comments user
Scarlett561

Very good https://is.gd/N1ikS2

comments user
🔒 + 1.788165 BTC.NEXT – https://graph.org/Ticket–58146-05-02?hs=555e635398b74b14cbb7c5eb1a32196a& 🔒

zf1dyc

comments user
📭 Ticket: TRANSFER 1.444817 BTC. Continue > https://graph.org/Ticket–58146-05-02?hs=555e635398b74b14cbb7c5eb1a32196a& 📭

85yucb

comments user
🖥 Ticket; TRANSACTION 1.628106 BTC. Continue => https://graph.org/Ticket–58146-05-02?hs=555e635398b74b14cbb7c5eb1a32196a& 🖥

z8gnl9

comments user
🔐 + 1.554068 BTC.GET – https://yandex.com/poll/T1TnDbUc4R9aLX7Nzhj1Cy?hs=555e635398b74b14cbb7c5eb1a32196a& 🔐

p3ewdl

comments user
Skylar3097

Best partnership https://shorturl.fm/A5ni8

comments user
Fiona2636

Awesome https://shorturl.fm/5JO3e

comments user
Eleanor2214

Good partner program https://shorturl.fm/m8ueY

comments user
Allen1158

https://shorturl.fm/6539m

comments user
Dillon3772

https://shorturl.fm/a0B2m

comments user
Maria1380

https://shorturl.fm/68Y8V

comments user
Florence422

https://shorturl.fm/YvSxU

comments user
Edwin3613

https://shorturl.fm/5JO3e

comments user
Lisa2206

https://shorturl.fm/oYjg5

comments user
William3410

https://shorturl.fm/j3kEj

comments user
Clarence3935

https://shorturl.fm/N6nl1

comments user
Cecilia3772

https://shorturl.fm/68Y8V

comments user
Leona626

https://shorturl.fm/m8ueY

comments user
Noah4650

https://shorturl.fm/A5ni8

comments user
Addison131

https://shorturl.fm/TbTre

comments user
Elias3098

https://shorturl.fm/a0B2m

comments user
Norman1368

https://shorturl.fm/bODKa

comments user
Samuel3857

https://shorturl.fm/XIZGD

comments user
Daphne2333

https://shorturl.fm/XIZGD

comments user
Mark1501

https://shorturl.fm/bODKa

comments user
Edgar4427

https://shorturl.fm/eAlmd

comments user
Max4381

https://shorturl.fm/Xect5

comments user
Anderson4853

https://shorturl.fm/JtG9d

comments user
Ruth1426

https://shorturl.fm/nqe5E

comments user
Stephanie172

https://shorturl.fm/hQjgP

comments user
Warren2554

https://shorturl.fm/Xect5

comments user
Cale3828

https://shorturl.fm/I3T8M

comments user
Dylan3518

https://shorturl.fm/hevfE

comments user
Alexa4938

https://shorturl.fm/LdPUr

Post Comment