1. Gather Your Tools and Materials
Before you start changing your cars engine oil, its important to have all the necessary tools and materials ready. This will make the process smoother and help you avoid unnecessary delays.
Essential Tools and Supplies
Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Engine Oil | The new oil that will be replacing the old one |
| Oil Filter | Filters out dirt and contaminants from the oil |
| Wrench | Used to remove the drain plug and oil filter |
| Drain Pan | Catches the used oil when draining |
| Funnel | Helps pour new oil without spilling |
| Gloves | Keeps your hands clean and protects from hot oil |
Choosing the Right Engine Oil
Check your car’s manual to find out the recommended oil type and viscosity. Using the wrong oil can affect engine performance and longevity.
Additional Supplies (Optional but Helpful)
- Shop rags or paper towels – for cleaning spills and wiping hands
- Oil filter wrench – makes removing the old filter easier
- Jack and jack stands – helps access the drain plug if your car sits low
- Owner’s manual – always a good reference for oil capacity and specifications
Preparation Tip
Before draining the oil, run your engine for a few minutes to warm it up. Warm oil flows out more easily, making the process quicker and more efficient.
2. Prepare Your Vehicle
Before you start changing your car’s engine oil, its essential to prepare your vehicle properly. This ensures safety and makes the process smoother.
Park on a Level Surface
Find a flat and stable area to park your car. A level surface prevents your vehicle from rolling and ensures oil drains properly. Avoid hills or uneven ground.
Engage the Parking Brake
Once you have parked, engage the parking brake to secure the vehicle in place. This is an important safety measure that prevents unintended movement.
Let the Engine Cool Down
After driving, your engine and engine oil will be hot. Allow at least 15–30 minutes for the engine to cool slightly. The oil should be warm but not scorching hot. Warm oil drains more easily compared to cold oil.
| Step | Reason |
|---|---|
| Park on a level surface | Ensures proper oil drainage and prevents rolling |
| Engage the parking brake | Prevents the vehicle from moving |
| Let the engine cool down | Avoids burns and helps oil drain efficiently |
Once youve completed these steps, youre ready to move on to the next phase of changing your engine oil.
3. Three. Drain the Old Oil
Locate the Oil Drain Plug
Before draining the oil, locate your car’s oil drain plug. This is typically found on the bottom of the oil pan, near the engine. If you’re unsure, refer to your owner’s manual for the exact location.
Place the Drain Pan Underneath
Once youve found the drain plug, position an oil drain pan directly underneath it. Make sure the pan is large enough to hold all of the old oil that will drain out.
Remove the Plug and Let the Oil Drain
Using a wrench, carefully loosen and remove the drain plug. Be prepared for the oil to start flowing out immediately. Allow all of the old oil to fully drain into the pan. This may take a few minutes, so be patient.
Tips for a Clean Drain
- Wear gloves to keep your hands clean and protect against hot oil.
- If the oil is hot, wait at least 10-15 minutes after running the engine before draining.
- Make sure you don’t drop the drain plug into the oil pan—hold onto it tightly!
Once the oil has completely drained, youre ready to move on to the next step: replacing the drain plug and changing the oil filter.
4. Replace the Oil Filter
Now that the old oil has been drained, it’s time to replace the oil filter. This step is crucial because your oil filter collects dirt and debris, preventing contaminants from circulating in your engine. Follow these simple steps to swap it out.
Step 1: Unscrew the Old Oil Filter
Locate the oil filter, which is usually a cylindrical component attached to the engine block. Using an oil filter wrench (or your hand if its loose enough), turn the filter counterclockwise to remove it. Be prepared for some oil to spill out, so keep your drain pan underneath.
Step 2: Prepare the New Oil Filter
Before installing the new filter, apply a thin layer of fresh engine oil to the rubber gasket on top. This lubrication helps create a proper seal and makes it easier to remove the filter during your next oil change.
Step 3: Install the New Oil Filter
Carefully screw the new oil filter onto the engine by hand. Turn it clockwise until it is snug—usually about three-quarters of a turn past the point where the gasket makes contact. Avoid over-tightening, as this can make removal difficult later.
Quick Reference for Replacing the Oil Filter
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Unscrew the old oil filter and let any excess oil drain. |
| 2 | Apply a thin layer of new oil to the gasket of the new filter. |
| 3 | Install the new filter by hand until snug—do not over-tighten. |
Helpful Tips
- Use a rag to grip the old filter if it’s stuck.
- Check the old filter’s gasket to ensure it didn’t stick to the engine.
- Double-check the specifications in your owner’s manual for proper fit.
With the new filter in place, you’re ready to move on to the next step—adding fresh oil to your engine!
5. Five: Add New Oil and Check Levels
Now that youve drained the old oil and replaced the oil filter, its time to refill your engine with fresh oil. Follow these steps carefully to ensure your car runs smoothly.
Step 1: Choose the Right Oil
Before pouring in the new oil, make sure youre using the correct type and amount. Check your owners manual for the recommended oil viscosity and capacity.
Common Motor Oil Viscosities
| Viscosity | Best For |
|---|---|
| 0W-20 | Cold climates, fuel efficiency |
| 5W-30 | Most modern vehicles |
| 10W-40 | High-mileage or older engines |
Step 2: Pour in the New Oil
Locate the oil filler cap on top of your engine and remove it. Using a funnel, slowly pour in the new oil based on your vehicles oil capacity. Avoid overfilling, as too much oil can lead to engine damage.
Step 3: Check the Oil Level
Once youve added the new oil, its important to check the oil level using the dipstick:
- Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean with a cloth.
- Reinsert the dipstick fully, then pull it out again to check the level.
- The oil should be between the minimum and maximum markers on the dipstick.
Step 4: Inspect for Leaks
Start your engine and let it run for a minute. Then, turn it off and check underneath for any leaks around the oil drain plug and filter. If you see any drips, tighten the components as needed.
Step 5: Final Level Check
After the engine has run for a few minutes, turn it off and wait a couple of minutes for the oil to settle. Check the dipstick one more time and top off if necessary.
6. Dispose of Old Oil Properly
Once youve drained the old engine oil and removed the used oil filter, its important to dispose of them responsibly. Used motor oil and filters contain contaminants that can harm the environment if not handled properly.
Step 1: Collect Used Oil Safely
After draining, transfer the used oil from the drain pan into a sealed container. Many household containers, such as empty motor oil bottles or milk jugs with screw-on lids, work well for this purpose.
Step 2: Store the Old Oil Filter
Let the old oil filter drain fully into the drain pan for a few hours. Once it has stopped dripping, place it in a sealed plastic bag or a dedicated recycling container.
Step 3: Find a Designated Recycling Center
Many auto parts stores, service stations, and local recycling centers accept used motor oil and filters for proper disposal. Check with your local waste management facility or visit a nearby auto parts store to ensure they can take your old oil.
Step 4: Transport and Drop Off
Once you have everything properly contained, take the used oil and filter to a drop-off location. Some places might even offer store credit or discounts for recycling your used motor oil.
Where Can You Recycle Used Oil?
| Location Type | Services Provided |
|---|---|
| Auto Parts Stores | Most nationwide chains accept used motor oil and filters. |
| Service Stations | Some mechanic shops and oil change centers offer free disposal. |
| City Recycling Centers | Local waste management facilities often have a designated drop-off area. |
Why Proper Disposal Matters
Dumping oil down drains or into the ground can contaminate water sources and cause serious environmental damage. Recycling used motor oil helps prevent pollution and allows the oil to be reprocessed for future use.
