How to Change the Oil in Your Car

The motor oil that flows through your vehicle is like your engine's blood and it should be replaced regularly. Don't overlook your engine's oil requirements. The engine's health depends on the correct use of oil, and this includes knowing how to change the oil in your car. You have invested a lot of capital in your car and proper oil care will enable it to last for years to come.

Things You'll Need

• Large container
• Socket wrench
• Oil filter wrench
• Funnel
• Oil
• Oil filter
• Car jack and jack stands or car ramp (optional)
• Rags

Instructions

1. Collect all of the required things you will need to change your oil and have them within easy reach. Place the car on a level surface to allow the oil to drain properly and to also be able to check the oil level when you are finished. Employ the parking brake. You should not have to place the car on a ramp or on jacks, unless you are unable to easily access the oil pan.

2. Remove the old oil. Find the drain plug on your oil pan and set a large container (to hold all of the used oil) under it. Loosen the drain plug (counter clockwise) with a socket wrench and then use your hand to remove it. Be ready for a rush of oil, once the plug has been removed. Let all of the oil drain from your car. After all of the oil is gone, replace the drain plug (and any gaskets if needed) on the drain pan.

3. Get rid of the old oil filter. Remove the oil filter (and gasket/seal) with an oil filter wrench. Coat the new oil filter gasket with a little oil with your finger. Tighten the new filter into place on your car by hand.

4. Add new oil to your car. Remove the oil filler cap on top of your engine and then use a funnel to place the new oil in. Put the oil filler cap back on when finished, warm up your engine and then check the oil level of your car.

Tips & Warnings

• It is better to have warm oil to allow it to drain easier, but make certain the engine is not extremely hot to prevent being burned.

• If you have any questions about the location of the oil pan, filter or oil filler cap or what type of oil and filter to use, consult your car manual or manufacturer.

• Use rags to clean all areas involved when you change the oil in your car.

• Always properly dispose of used oil at a local garage or recycling center.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish