How to Change Your Car’s Oil Yourself

February 28th, 2019 by

Car mechanic loosening oil filter

Knowing how to change your oil is an important part of vehicle ownership, so start by preparing the car. You want it parked on a level surface with the parking brake on and the engine off. If necessary, raise the front by driving onto a ramp or jacking it up and using jack stands – wheel chocks are also recommended to prevent rolling.

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Once that’s done, simply follow these steps.

How to Change Your Car’s Oil: A Quick and Easy Guide

  • Find the Drain Plug: It’s a large nut or plug under the oil pan at the bottom of your engine. Place a container under it to catch the oil.
  • Unscrew the Drain Plug: Protect your hand with a rag and remove the cap, then unscrew the oil filter by twisting it counterclockwise. If any of the filter’s rubber seal remains, remove it. Let the oil empty into your container.
  • Remove the Filter: Once your oil filter is empty, take it out, wrap it in newspaper, and set it aside for recycling.
  • Open a New Bottle of Oil: Dip your finger in and lightly moisten the gasket on the top of the new oil filter.
  • Add the New Filter: Simply screw it into the engine exactly where the old one was. Turn gently until it seats, then give another three-quarter turn.
  • Replace the Oil Drain Plug: If your vehicle uses an oil drain plug gasket, lay it down before using an adjustable wrench to tighten the new oil drain plug.
  • Add New Oil: Use a funnel to pour in all but 1 quart of the fresh oil. Go slowly to give the oil time to run down. Replace the oil filler cap, then run the engine for 30 to 60 seconds and check for leaks around the plug and filter.
  • Check the Oil Level: Shut off the engine, wait 5 to 10 minutes for the oil to settle, then use your dipstick to check the level. If necessary, add a little more at a time until you reach the full line.

Finish by removing the drain pan and taking a test drive around the block a few times. Give the new oil 5 to 10 minutes to settle, then check you’re still at full. If so, you’re done.

Get All the Servicing Help You Need from Dick Hannah CDJR

Whether you need OEM parts for your vehicle, professional advice from our service center on when to get recommended maintenance, or simply need help changing your oil, the Dick Hannah team can help. For any further assistance, feel free to contact us today.

Posted in Maintenance