How To Change Motor Oil In Car : For High Mileage Vehicles

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Learning how to change motor oil in car is a fundamental skill that saves you money and keeps your engine running smoothly. Swapping out old motor oil for fresh lubricant is a straightforward process that protects vital engine components from wear. This guide will walk you through every step, ensuring you can complete the job safely and correctly.

You will need some basic tools and about an hour of your time. Always prioritize safety by working on a level surface and allowing the engine to cool. Let’s gather everything you need before getting started.

How To Change Motor Oil In Car

This section provides the complete, step-by-step procedure. Following these instructions carefully will lead to a successful oil change.

Gather Your Supplies And Tools

Having everything ready before you start is crucial. You do not want to be searching for a tool while oil is draining. Here is your checklist:

  • New Engine Oil: Check your owner’s manual for the correct type (viscosity like 5W-30) and quantity.
  • New Oil Filter: Ensure it matches your car’s make, model, and engine. A filter wrench is often needed to remove the old one.
  • Basic Tools: A combination wrench or socket set that fits your car’s drain plug (commonly 14mm, 15mm, or 17mm).
  • Oil Drain Pan: A dedicated pan with a capacity greater than your engine’s oil volume.
  • Jack and Jack Stands or Car Ramps: For safe access under the vehicle. Never rely on a jack alone.
  • Funnel: For clean oil pouring.
  • Gloves and Safety Glasses: To protect your hands and eyes from hot oil.
  • Shop Rags or Paper Towels: For cleaning up spills.

Prepare Your Vehicle

Proper preparation makes the whole process easier and safer. Take your time with these initial steps.

Park On A Level Surface And Warm The Engine

Park your car on a flat, solid surface like a driveway or garage floor. Engage the parking brake firmly. Start the engine and let it run for 2-3 minutes. This warms the oil, making it thinner and allowing it to drain more completely. Do not let the engine get too hot.

Safely Lift The Car

Turn off the engine and wait a minute. Consult your owner’s manual for the proper jacking points. Use a jack to lift the vehicle, then immediately place jack stands under the recommended support points. Double-check that the car is stable before going underneath. Alternatively, drive onto a set of quality car ramps for a secure lift.

Drain The Old Engine Oil

This is the core of the process. Be ready for the oil to flow quickly once the plug is removed.

  1. Place your drain pan directly under the engine’s oil drain plug. The plug is typically a large bolt on the lowest point of the oil pan.
  2. Put on your gloves and safety glasses. Using the correct size wrench, loosen the drain plug by turning it counterclockwise. Be prepared for some resistance.
  3. Once loose, carefully unscrew the plug by hand the rest of the way. Quickly pull your hand away as the oil will begin to flow. Let the oil drain completely into the pan. This can take several minutes.
  4. While the oil is draining, inspect the drain plug’s washer. If it is crushed or damaged, replace it with a new one to prevent future leaks.
  5. Once the stream reduces to a slow drip, clean the drain plug and the surrounding area with a rag. Screw the plug back in by hand first to avoid cross-threading, then tighten it securely with the wrench. Do not overtighten.

Replace The Oil Filter

The filter holds old, dirty oil, so replacing it is essential for a complete change.

  1. Locate the oil filter. It is usually a cylindrical metal canister on the side of the engine block, though some cars use a cartridge style inside a housing.
  2. Position your drain pan under the filter, as it will contain additional oil. Use an oil filter wrench to loosen it by turning counterclockwise. If it’s very tight, you may need to puncture it with a screwdriver for leverage, but this is messy last resort.
  3. Once loose, unscrew it completely by hand. Tip it upside down quickly to minimize spillage into the pan.
  4. Take a clean rag and wipe the filter mounting surface on the engine. Ensure the old filter’s gasket came off with the filter.
  5. Dip your finger in the new oil and lightly coat the rubber gasket on the top of the new filter. This ensures a good seal and makes future removal easier.
  6. Screw the new filter onto the mounting stud by hand until the gasket makes contact. Then, give it another three-quarter turn by hand. Do not use the filter wrench to tighten it, as this can damage the gasket.

Add The New Oil

You are now in the home stretch. Adding the oil is simple, but requires attention to detail.

  1. Lower the car from the jack stands or ramps so it is sitting level on the ground. This ensures you get an accurate oil level reading later.
  2. Locate the oil filler cap on top of the engine. Remove it and place your funnel in the opening.
  3. Pour in the new oil slowly. Start with about one quart less than the recommended capacity. Check your owner’s manual for the exact amount.
  4. Wait a minute for the oil to settle into the oil pan, then check the dipstick. Pull it out, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and pull it out again to see the level.
  5. Add more oil in small increments, checking the dipstick each time, until the level reaches the “Full” mark on the dipstick. Do not overfill.
  6. Once filled, screw the oil filler cap back on tightly.

Complete The Process And Check For Leaks

A few final steps will confirm your work was done properly.

  1. Start the engine and let it idle for about 30 seconds. The oil pressure light on your dashboard should turn off within a few seconds. This circulates the new oil and fills the new filter.
  2. While the engine is running, look underneath the vehicle at the drain plug and oil filter area for any signs of drips or leaks. If you see a leak, turn off the engine and check the tightness of the plug or filter.
  3. Turn off the engine and wait 2-3 minutes to let the oil drain back into the pan, then check the dipstick one final time. Top up if necessary.
  4. Properly dispose of the old oil and filter. Most auto parts stores and service stations accept used oil for recycling at no charge. Never pour it down a drain or on the ground.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Being aware of these common errors will help you achieve a professional-quality oil change.

  • Using the Wrong Oil or Filter: Always double-check specifications in your manual or with a parts retailer.
  • Over-tightening the Drain Plug or Filter: This can strip threads or crush gaskets, leading to major leaks. Snug is sufficient.
  • Forgetting to Replace the Drain Plug Washer: A worn washer is a common cause of slow leaks after an oil change.
  • Not Properly Seating the New Filter Gasket: An un-lubricated or double-gasketed filter can cause a massive oil spill.
  • Overfilling the Engine with Oil: Excess oil can cause foaming and increased pressure, potentially damaging engine seals.

How Often Should You Change Your Oil

The old rule of every 3,000 miles is largely outdated for modern vehicles and oils. The best practice is to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations in your owner’s manual. Many cars today have intervals of 5,000, 7,500, or even 10,000 miles. Your driving conditions also matter. Frequent short trips, towing, or extreme temperatures may require more frequent changes. Your car’s oil life monitoring system, if equipped, is an excellent guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Easiest Way To Change Oil In A Car?

The easiest method involves using car ramps for access, a quality oil filter wrench, and having all your supplies organized before you start. Using a funnel with a long, flexible neck can also make adding the new oil much cleaner.

Can I Change My Car Oil Myself?

Yes, absolutely. With basic tools, careful preparation, and by following clear steps like those outlined here, most people can successfully change their car’s oil. It is a rewarding way to maintain your vehicle and save on service costs.

How Do You Change Oil Step By Step?

The key steps are: 1) Gather supplies and warm the engine. 2) Safely lift the vehicle. 3) Drain the old oil. 4) Replace the oil filter. 5) Add the new oil to the correct level. 6) Check for leaks and dispose of the old oil properly.

How Long Does A DIY Oil Change Take?

For a first-timer, allow about 60 to 90 minutes. With experience, you can complete a routine oil change in 30 to 45 minutes. The time can vary based on your vehicle’s design and accesibility of the filter and drain plug.

Is It Cheaper To Change Your Own Oil?

Typically, yes. You pay only for the oil and filter, avoiding labor charges. The initial investment in tools like a jack, stands, and a drain pan pays for itself after just a couple of changes. You also have the assurance of knowing the job was done correctly with quality products.