Gather Your Supplies and Tools
Before you even think about jacking up your car, make sure you have everything you need. This includes your new oil (check your owner’s manual for the correct type and amount), a new oil filter (again, check your manual), a wrench that fits your oil filter, a drain pan (a large enough one to comfortably hold your old oil), a funnel, a socket wrench that fits your drain plug, jack and jack stands (never work under a car supported only by a jack!), wheel chocks, rags or paper towels, and possibly an oil filter wrench (depending on your vehicle). Having everything prepared beforehand saves time and frustration.
Prepare Your Vehicle
Park your car on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels for extra safety. Locate the oil drain plug underneath your vehicle – consult your owner’s manual if you’re unsure where it is. Now, carefully position your jack under the vehicle’s frame, according to your car’s jack points (also found in your owner’s manual). Slowly raise the vehicle until you have enough clearance to work comfortably underneath. Securely place the jack stands under the vehicle’s frame, ensuring they’re firmly in place before lowering the vehicle onto them. Remember, safety first! Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
Drain the Old Oil
Position your drain pan directly beneath the oil drain plug. Using the appropriate socket wrench, carefully loosen and remove the drain plug. Be warned: the oil will be hot, so proceed with caution. Let the oil drain completely – this might take 15-20 minutes. Once the flow slows to a drip, you can move on to the next step. While you’re waiting, you can start to loosen the oil filter.
Remove and Replace the Oil Filter
Position the drain pan under the oil filter to catch any spills. Use your oil filter wrench (or your hands if it’s easily accessible) to carefully unscrew the old oil filter. The oil filter may be slightly oily, so be prepared. Once removed, lubricate the rubber gasket on the new oil filter with a bit of fresh oil. This helps create a good seal. Screw the new oil filter on by hand, tightening it according to the instructions on the filter’s packaging. Generally, you should tighten it until you feel a slight resistance, then tighten it another half to a full turn.
Replace the Drain Plug and Lower the Vehicle
Once the oil has completely drained, carefully screw the drain plug back into place, tightening it firmly but not excessively. Over-tightening can strip the threads. Now, carefully lower your vehicle using the jack, making sure to keep your hands clear. Once the vehicle is safely on the ground, remove the jack stands.
Add New Oil
Locate your oil filler cap (usually marked with an oil can symbol). Remove the cap and, using a funnel, slowly pour in the recommended amount of new oil, as specified in your owner’s manual. It’s better to slightly underfill than overfill. You can always add a little more later if needed. After adding the oil, replace the filler cap.
Check the Oil Level
After adding the oil, wait a few minutes for it to settle. Then, locate your oil dipstick (usually marked with a dipstick symbol), pull it out, wipe it clean with a rag, reinsert it fully, and remove it again. The oil level should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick. If it’s low, add more oil until it reaches the appropriate level. If it’s too high, you’ll need to carefully drain some out using a syringe or a small pump. Remember to consult your owner’s manual for the proper oil level.
Start Your Engine and Check for Leaks
Start your car’s engine and let it run for a few minutes. Then, turn it off and carefully check under the vehicle for any oil leaks around the drain plug and the oil filter. If you see any leaks, immediately stop and tighten the respective component. After a few minutes, check the oil level again using the dipstick, and top up if required.
Dispose of the Used Oil Properly
Finally, and critically, properly dispose of your used oil. Don’t pour it down the drain or into the trash. Most auto parts stores and some recycling centers accept used motor oil for recycling. Check with your local authorities for details on proper disposal methods in your area. This is an important environmental responsibility. Read also about How to check and change your car’s oil
