How to Do Your Own Oil Changes

Job pressure throbs in your shoulders and furrows your brow, but the project is finalized and on schedule. Rest and relaxation beckon you; “road trip” screams from every pore. You bought brakes and tires a few weeks ago, so the car is in good condition and ready to go. Then you remember, the mechanic recommended an oil change; you were too stressed to take the time. The dealership is expensive and time consuming; an appointment may not be available for days. You can do your own oil change, in a couple hours, for a fraction of the cost.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• 4 to 6 Quarts Oil
• Oil filter
• Wheel ramps
• Wood blocks
• Socket wrench
• Oil filter wrench
• Drain pan
• Absorbent floor/ground protection
• Safety glasses
• Funnel
• Rag
• Hand cleaner

1. Ensure your vehicle is on level ground and pull it onto the wheel ramps. You need enough clearance to slide underneath comfortably. Set the emergency brake and wedge wood blocks behind the rear tires to prevent rolling. Set the transmission in park. Use first gear if it is a manual.
2. Loosen the sump cap under the hood before opening the drain plug. Be careful not to open the transmission drain; it usually sits further towards the rear of the car. Set your drain pain under and slightly back of the drain plug. Use your socket wrench to loosen the plug and remove it by hand.
3. Turn the oil filter counterclockwise with the oil filter wrench to remove it. Keep it level; it is full of oil; empty it into your drain pan. Clean around the filter seat with a rag.
4. Apply a thin coat of motor oil to the new oil filter gasket to act as a sealant. Gently screw it into the filter seat. You want it snug, but do not over tighten. Clean old oil and dirt from the oil pan and around the oil plughole; make sure to clean the copper gasket and the oil plug as well. Replace the plug; check your owner’s manual to determine the proper torque.
5. Pour in the new oil and tighten the sump cap.
6. Clean up. Pour the used engine oil into an airtight container and dispose of properly.

Tips & Warnings

• Check your owner’s manual to determine how many quarts of motor oil you car needs.
• The capacity of your drain pan should exceed the oil in your engine by at least 1 quart.
• Put cardboard or a thin board on the ground to absorb any spills.
• Many places accept used engine oil for recycling at no cost; check with your local auto parts store for more information.
• Engine oil is difficult to get off skin; use a hand cleaner designed to remove petroleum.
• Wear safety glasses when draining the oil. It is likely to be hot and flow rapidly.