How to Change Your Engine Oil and Filter: A Step-by-Step Guide

When anything related to our cars requires maintenance, we naturally flock to our nearest mechanic. Though it's always best to consult a professional if you encounter any issues with your vehicle, changing your oil and oil filter is something you can quickly learn to do yourself. With this easy-to-follow guide, you can brush up on your DIY skills and learn how to check and adjust your oil without rushing to a repair shop. Below, you'll find all you need to know about the equipment you'll need, precautions to take, and a comprehensive overview of each step.

Checking the Manual for Your Car

Before you get started, it's important to check your car manual to ensure you pick up the correct oil for your specific vehicle. This handbook should also include details about the level of oil required, as the amount of oil a car can take will differ depending on the model. Be sure to read through the instructions carefully before purchasing any oil and beginning the process.

Gathering All the Materials You'll Need

Luckily, you won't need too many supplies to change your oil and filter; chances are, you'll already have plenty of them at home! Make sure you have all of the following beforehand:

• The correct oil

• Oil filter

• Crush washer

• Gloves

• Safety goggles

• Extra clothes

• Suitably-sized oil drip tray/container

• Socket wrench

• Oil filter wrench

• Brake cleaner

• Funnel

Taking Appropriate Safety Measures

There are a few quick things to be aware of to avoid running into any health and safety issues. Firstly, you'll need to allow your engine to cool down before getting started. If the engine is still slightly warm, you shouldn't run into any trouble, but it's best to wait around 30 minutes after switching off the car. On the other hand, if you wait too long, the oil will go cold and can be tricky to work with. You'll more than likely use a jack stand to elevate the car, and you should familiarize yourself with using this device in advance. Lastly, park on flat ground and check that the handbrake is engaged to prevent the car from rolling.

Step One: Open up the Filler Cap and Oil Drain Plug

When you're ready, open up the oil's filler cap to allow the fluid to drain easily. Once you move underneath, set up the oil drip tray in the correct position according to your car manual, and begin to loosen the oil drain plug. Using the socket wrench, twist the plug until it's possible to turn it by hand. As soon as you remove the plug, the oil will pour out onto the drip tray. While you're waiting for the oil to flow out, wash the plug with brake cleaner to remove any build-up. At this point, you should also add a new crusher washer onto the plug after it's been cleaned thoroughly. Put the plug back in place, tightening it first by hand and then using a socket wrench.

Step Two: Remove and Replace the Oil Filter

Next, you need to remove the oil filter. You can usually do this by hand, but you might need to use a wrench if it's particularly tight. When the filter becomes loose, carefully remove it and keep it upright to prevent spillage. Before inserting the new oil filter, fill it with clean oil and put a light layer around the edge. This will allow the oil to easily reach the engine as soon as the filter is changed. When the new filter is ready to be installed, twist it by hand until it's securely in place. Using a wrench isn't recommended, but if you're having difficulty tightening it, use a cloth to give you some extra grip.

Step Three: Refill the Oil

Now that everything underneath the car is in place, you'll move back under the hood to refill it with suitable oil. If you're unsure of how much oil your car requires, double-check the handbook before doing so. Using a funnel, pour the correct amount of oil into the engine. Once this step is complete, place the filler cap back in place. Immediately afterward, turn the car on for three or four minutes for the oil to flow through its system. When the time has passed, switch the engine off and lower the car down from the jack stand.

Step Four: Check the Oil Level

Before finishing up, you must examine the new oil level to ensure the change went smoothly. For this step, you'll remove the dipstick. This is typically yellow, red, or orange and is located right in front of the engine, though this can vary between makes and models. After taking out the dipstick, wipe it dry with a clean cloth and place it back into the oil. Pull it out a second time and inspect it closely to find the oil level. Dipsticks usually have two markers indicating too much or too little oil, and the level should ideally sit right at or just below the higher of the two points.

Step Five: Properly Dispose of the Old Oil

The final step involves pouring the old oil you've collected into the drip tray before decanting it into a container. You'll then take these sealed containers to your local mechanic, oil bank, or recycling center, where they'll be disposed of correctly. This oil can be dangerous and potentially act as a pollutant, meaning it must be discarded safely. In many instances, improper oil disposal is illegal, so this last part of the process is essential.

Learn the Ropes of How to Change Your Oil and Filter by Yourself!

You don't need to be well-versed in what lies under a car's hood to complete an oil and filter change. Not only is it relatively straightforward, but it usually takes very little time to do, too! Save yourself a trip to the mechanic's garage with our quick and practical guide to changing your car's oil and filter.