How to Change Your Oil
Changing your car's oil is something that might not be on your to-do list, especially if a quick lube shop is just around the corner. However, changing your own oil can save you roughly $100 a year. All it requires is knowing how to do it and about 30 minutes of your time. So, if you have the time and the inclination, here is a basic walkthrough of what to do when changing your oil.
Purchase the Correct Motor Oil and Filters. You can find these parts at any auto care store that sells automobile products. These stores provide manuals that will help you determine the right filter to buy for your vehicle. You should also check your owner's manual to determine the right type of oil to buy for your car, but don't bother buying the most expensive brand. As long as it is certified by the American Petroleum Institute, even the cheapest oil will do the job.
Prepare for the Change. Before you start, be sure to let your car's engine cool down, especially if you just came back from the store to buy the supplies you needed. Give it at least a few hours to cool because motor oil can seriously burn you if it is hot.
Once the engine has cooled, find a level area on solid ground so you can jack up your car safely. Make sure you are wearing old clothes, and be sure to put something underneath the engine like a piece of plywood or cardboard to make sure oil doesn't spill all over your garage floor or driveway.
Drain the Oil. The first step in the actual process is to drain out all the old oil. Do this by positioning yourself under your car and looking for a large tank with a bolt sticking out from its bottom side. This is the oil tank. Place an oil pan under the bolt, remove the plug, and let all the oil drain into the pan. Once that's done, replace the plug and tighten it in place. It should be snug but not so tight that you have a hard time opening it the next time you have to change the oil.
Change the Oil Filter. The oil filter is next. It's usually located somewhere near the side of your engine, and you can usually remove it easily by using a filter wrench. Be careful when you remove the old filter because it will still have some oil in it. Allow the old filter to drain by placing it into the same oil pan that you used in the previous step.
After removing the old filter, you will have to install the new one. Before doing so, you'll need to prep it by rubbing a little fresh oil on the rubber gasket on the end of the filter. Once it is prepped, screw in the new oil filter by rotating it clockwise. Be careful not to over-tighten it. Once it comes in contact with the engine, you only need to rotate an additional 3/4 of a turn.
Add the New Oil. Now it's time to refill the oil tank. The tank's cap is located under the hood of your car and is usually labeled “oil.” Check your owner's manual to find out just how much oil your car needs. The amount could range between 4 and 5 quarts. Usually, you want to pour just over 3/4 of that amount into the engine. Once you're done adding oil, be sure to put your oil cap back on securely to prevent oil from spraying out and potentially causing a fire.
Once you add the oil, check the dipstick to make sure there is enough in the tank. If the level is appropriate, check under your car for any oil leaks, and then start your car up and check for leaks again.
If there are no leaks, take the old oil to your local auto parts store or full service gas station for disposal. Even some quick lube stores will take your old oil. It's against the law to improperly dispose of the old oil, so be sure to take it to one of these locations. After that, record your mileage so you'll know when your next oil change is due, and you'll be ready for the road once again.