Changing your oil seems intimidating, but it's easy with the right tools and expert instructions.
Start by running your engine for about 2 minutes to warm up the oil. Warm oil flows better and drains more completely. Engage your parking brake, and pop the hood. Then, Let the engine cool for a few minutes before you start working on it
Safety is critical here. Never work under a car that is only supported by a jack. Always use jack stands and make sure the vehicle is completely stable before sliding underneath
Use your car jack to lift the front of your vehicle. Place jack stands underneath the manufacturer's designated lift points and lower the car onto them. The front needs to be high enough for you to comfortably access the oil pan and filter. Double check that the car is stable before proceeding
Locate the oil drain plug on the bottom of the oil pan. It's usually a hexagonal bolt. Slide your drain pan underneath it and use your wrench to loosen the plug, then finish removing it by hand. As you remove the plug, be ready to move your hand out of the way quickly since warm oil will start flowing out immediately. Let it drain for 10 to 15 minutes for a complete drain
Now move the drain pan under the oil filter. It's usually a cylindrical component on the side of the engine. Unscrew the old filter by turning it counterclockwise. If it's stuck, use an oil filter wrench. Once removed, take your new filter and apply a small amount of fresh oil to the rubber gasket on the top. This ensures a proper seal. Screw the new filter on by hand until it contacts the mounting surface, then tighten it an additional quarter turn
Don't use a wrench to tighten the filter. You can crack the seal and cause leaks
Check that the drain plug's washer is in good condition. If it's damaged or worn, replace it with a new one. Reinstall the drain plug and tighten it to the manufacturer's specification. Be careful not to overtighten, as this can strip the threads in the oil pan
Remove the oil filler cap from the top of the engine. Insert a funnel to prevent spills. Double-check the correct oil type and amount. Pour in the new oil slowly, checking the level with the dipstick as you go. It's better to err on the side of too little since you can always add more. Once you've added the recommended amount, replace the cap
Overfilling the oil can cause pressure buildup and seal damage. Stay within the marked range on the dipstick
Start your engine and let it run for about a minute. Watch the oil pressure light; it should go out within a few seconds. Look underneath the car to make sure there are no leaks around the drain plug or filter. Turn off the engine, wait a minute, then check the dipstick again to confirm the level is correct. You're all set!
If the oil pressure light stays on or you see leaks, turn off the engine immediately and investigate
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Shop Oil and FiltersMost modern cars recommend changing oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Check your owner's manual for the manufacturer's specific interval. If you do a lot of short trips, tow heavy loads, or drive in extreme temperatures, you might need to change it more frequently
Over time, oil breaks down and collects dirt and sludge. Dirty oil doesn't lubricate as well, leading to increased friction and heat. Eventually, this causes engine wear and can result in catastrophic engine failure. Regular oil changes are cheap insurance against expensive repairs
If your car came with synthetic oil from the factory, you can absolutely use synthetic. If it originally used conventional oil, you can switch to synthetic, but it's best to check with your mechanic first. Synthetic oil costs more but lasts longer and provides better protection
Your owner's manual will specify the correct oil weight, typically something like 5W-30 or 0W-20. You can also find this information on the oil filler cap under your hood. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendation for optimal engine performance