Key Takeaways:
- Start by preparing your car with the right tools, such as engine oil, a drain pan, and a wrench set.
- Follow the 6-step process: drain the old oil, swap the filter, and add fresh oil to maintain engine health.
- Always check for leaks after installation and clean up any spills immediately to ensure a safe and efficient oil change.
- Regularly change your oil every 3,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on the oil type and your car’s manufacturer recommendations.
Why Changing Your Oil In Your Car Is Important?
Changing the oil in your car is important for keeping the engine running smoothly. Fresh oil helps lubricate the engine’s moving parts, reducing friction and preventing unnecessary wear.
As oil ages, it becomes less effective and can pick up dirt and debris, which may damage the engine. Regular oil changes ensure that your engine stays clean and operates at peak performance, improving fuel efficiency.
Neglecting oil changes can lead to overheating and even complete engine failure. Keeping the oil fresh protects your car from costly repairs and extends its overall lifespan.
How To Prepare For An Oil Change?
Before starting, ensure you have the right tools and materials. Having everything at hand will make the oil change process easier and more efficient.
Engine Oil
Start by selecting the correct engine oil for your car. Refer to your car’s owner’s manual to find the recommended oil type and viscosity, such as 5W-30 or 10W-40, to ensure you’re using the right oil for optimal engine performance.
Oil Filter
Make sure to get a new oil filter before beginning the oil change. Replacing the oil filter each time is crucial for keeping the engine clean, as it traps contaminants and prevents them from circulating in the engine.
Oil Drain Pan
You will need an oil drain pan to collect the used oil when draining it from the engine. This will keep the process clean and ensure the old oil is disposed of safely and efficiently.
Wrench Set
A wrench set is necessary to remove the oil drain plug and the oil filter. Be sure to use the correct size to avoid damaging the bolts or the components of the engine.
Funnel
Use a funnel when adding new oil to the engine. The funnel allows you to pour the oil precisely into the oil filler cap without making a mess.
Jack and Jack Stands
If the oil pan is hard to reach, use a jack and jack stands to lift the car. Raising the car will give you the necessary clearance to access the oil drain plug and the oil filter with ease.
Rubber Gloves
Wearing rubber gloves is essential to protect your hands from oil and grime. Gloves keep you clean and prevent harmful chemicals from coming into contact with your skin.
Rags or Paper Towels
It’s a good idea to have rags or paper towels nearby to clean up any spills during the oil change. Having them on hand helps maintain a clean work area and ensures you don’t make unnecessary messes.
New Washer for the Drain Plug
If your car uses a crush washer on the oil drain plug, replace it with a new one. The fresh washer ensures a secure, leak-free fit when you reinstall the drain plug after draining the oil.
What Are The Safety Guidelines You To Follow?
Park on a Flat Surface
Make sure your car is parked on level ground before you start. This will prevent the car from shifting or rolling while you’re working, keeping everything stable and safe.
Use Jack Stands for Stability
If you need to lift the car, always use jack stands along with the jack. A jack alone isn’t enough to safely support the weight of the vehicle, so jack stands are essential.
Wear Protective Gear
Be sure to wear rubber gloves to protect your hands from oil and grime. Oil can irritate your skin, so gloves help keep you safe and clean during the process.
Cool Down the Engine
Let the engine cool down for 10 to 15 minutes before you begin. Working with hot oil can cause burns, so it’s important to give it time to cool off.
Check for Leaks After Installation
Once you’ve added the new oil and reinstalled the drain plug and filter, start the engine briefly. This will help you check for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter to make sure everything is properly sealed.
Dispose of Used Oil Properly
Take your used oil to a recycling center or an auto parts store that accepts it. Never dispose of used oil down the drain or in the trash as it’s harmful to the environment.
Avoid Over-tightening
When reinstalling the drain plug and oil filter, tighten them by hand. Over-tightening can cause damage to the components and lead to leaks.
Clean Up Spills Immediately
Keep rags or paper towels nearby to clean up any spills right away. This helps keep your workspace clean and safe, and it makes the entire process easier.
Step-by-Step Process to Change Your Car Oil
Step 1: Get Your Car Ready
Start by ensuring that your car is parked on a flat and stable surface. This helps prevent any shifting or movement while you work, making the process much safer.
If your car has low clearance, use a jack to lift the car, then secure it with jack stands. These tools are essential for safely supporting the vehicle while you access the oil pan.
Before beginning the oil change, let the engine cool down for about 10 to 15 minutes. Hot oil can cause burns, so this waiting period is important for your safety.
Step 2: Drain the Old Oil
Position an oil drain pan underneath the oil pan to catch the used oil. Make sure the pan is large enough to hold the total amount of oil your engine holds.
Using the proper wrench, carefully remove the oil drain plug and allow the oil to drain out completely. It’s important to give it time, this process may take several minutes to ensure all the oil is drained.
As the oil drains, keep an eye on its condition. If you notice metal particles or unusual debris, it could signal internal engine damage and may require professional attention.
Step 3: Swap Out the Oil Filter
Once the oil has finished draining, use an oil filter wrench to remove the old oil filter. Be cautious, as some oil may still spill out of the filter during this process.
Before installing the new oil filter, wipe the area around the oil filter mount to remove any excess oil or debris. This ensures that the new filter fits snugly and seals properly.
Apply a thin layer of fresh oil to the rubber seal of the new filter before installing it. This step helps the filter seat properly and makes it easier to remove during the next oil change.
Step 4: Put the Drain Plug Back On
After the oil has drained, reinstall the oil drain plug and tighten it with a wrench. Be sure not to over-tighten the plug to avoid damaging the threads.
If your vehicle uses a crush washer, replace it with a new one. A fresh washer ensures a tight, leak-proof seal when you reinstall the drain plug.
Check that the drain plug is securely tightened. A loose or improperly sealed plug can lead to oil leaks, causing further issues down the road.
Step 5: Add the New Oil
Using a funnel, slowly pour the recommended amount of fresh oil into the engine. Always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual to ensure you’re using the correct type and amount of oil for your car.
After pouring in the new oil, use the dipstick to check the oil level. If necessary, add more oil in small increments to avoid overfilling.
Once the oil level is correct, start the engine briefly to allow the new oil to circulate. This helps to ensure that the oil is properly distributed throughout the engine.
Step 6: Double-Check and Clean Up
Start the engine and let it run for a minute or two to allow the oil to circulate. Afterward, check around the oil filter and drain plug for any signs of leaks.
If there are no leaks, turn off the engine and clean up your work area. Use rags or paper towels to wipe away any oil spills and keep your tools organized.
Dispose of the used oil properly by taking it to a recycling center or auto parts store. Never pour used oil down the drain or throw it away, as it is harmful to the environment.
What Are The Tips For A Successful Oil Change?
Always Use the Correct Oil Type
Consult your car’s owner’s manual to determine the correct oil specifications. Using the right oil ensures your engine runs smoothly and performs at its best.
Change Oil Regularly
Most manufacturers suggest oil changes every 3,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on your vehicle and oil type. Following these recommended intervals helps prevent engine wear and maintains performance.
Use the Right Tools
Make sure you have the right tools for the job, such as an oil filter wrench and a proper-sized wrench for the drain plug. Using the correct tools helps avoid damaging your car and ensures a smooth oil change process.
Wear Protective Gear
Always wear gloves to protect your hands from oil and grime. This keeps you clean and safe from the chemicals found in used motor oil.
Clean Up Spills Immediately
Keep rags or paper towels handy to clean up any oil spills as soon as they happen. A clean workspace reduces the risk of slipping and makes the process much easier.
What Are The Common Mistakes To Avoid While Changing Oil?
Over-tightening the Oil Filter
Tightening the oil filter too much can cause damage to both the filter and the engine, leading to potential leaks. Always hand-tighten the filter to avoid over-tightening.
Ignoring the Oil Drain Plug Washer
If your car uses a crush washer on the drain plug, always replace it during every oil change. Failing to do so can cause leaks and lead to oil loss.
Not Checking the Oil Level
After adding the new oil, always check the oil level using the dipstick. Ensuring it’s within the proper range prevents engine damage from low or excessive oil levels.
How To Change Car Oil FAQs
Can I Just Add Oil Instead of Changing It?
No, you cannot just add oil instead of changing it. Over time, oil degrades and collects contaminants, which adding oil won’t fix. You must change the oil to ensure proper engine lubrication and prevent damage.
How to Maintain Oil Health Between Changes?
To maintain oil health, regularly check the oil level and color using the dipstick. If the oil looks dark or gritty, or if the level is low, it’s time to top it up or change it earlier than scheduled.
How Long Does an Oil Change Take?
An oil change typically takes around 30 minutes to an hour. The exact time may vary depending on the car model and the type of oil change service being performed.
How Much Does an Oil Change Cost?
The cost of an oil change can vary based on the type of oil used and your location. On average, a Valvoline oil change can cost between $40 and $80, depending on the oil type and any additional services included.
How Often Should You Change Your Oil?
Most cars require an oil change every 3,000 to 7,500 miles. However, this varies depending on your vehicle’s age, oil type (conventional or synthetic), and the manufacturer’s recommendations.
