Learning how to change engine oil in car is a fundamental skill that clears out contaminants and ensures all moving parts are properly lubricated. It saves you money and gives you confidence in your vehicle’s maintenance. This guide will walk you through the entire process from start to finish.
You will need some basic tools and about an hour of your time. We will cover everything from gathering supplies to disposing of the old oil correctly. Let’s get started on this essential automotive task.
How To Change Engine Oil In Car
This section provides the complete, step-by-step procedure. Safety is the first priority, so we’ll begin with the essential preparations before you get under the vehicle.
Gather Your Tools And Materials
Having everything ready before you start is crucial. You don’t want to be under the car searching for a tool. Here is the complete list of what you’ll need:
- 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).
- Jack and Jack Stands: Never rely on a jack alone. Use sturdy jack stands to support the vehicle securely.
- Oil Drain Pan: A pan with at least a 6-quart capacity to catch the old oil.
- Funnel: For pouring new oil without spills.
- Gloves and Safety Glasses: Protect your hands and eyes from hot oil and dirt.
- Rags or Paper Towels: For cleaning up drips and checking the oil level.
Prepare Your Vehicle
Proper preparation makes the job smoother and safer. Follow these steps before lifting the car.
Warm Up The Engine Briefly
Run the engine for 5-10 minutes. Warm oil flows out more quickly and carries more suspended contaminants with it. Be careful, as the oil and engine components will be hot.
Park On A Level Surface And Engage Parking Brake
Park your car on a flat, solid surface like a driveway. Engage the parking brake fully and place wheel chocks behind the rear tires for added safety. This prevents any accidental rolling.
Locate Key Components
Open the hood and identify the oil fill cap and the oil dipstick. It’s easier to find these from above before the car is in the air. This helps you plan your work.
Drain The Old Engine Oil
This is the core part of the oil change process. Take your time and be methodical to avoid messes.
- Safely Lift and Support the Car: Consult your owner’s manual for the correct jacking points. Lift the front of the car high enough to slide underneath comfortably and place jack stands at the recommended support points. Double-check that the car is stable before proceeding.
- Position the Drain Pan: Slide your drain pan directly under the engine’s oil pan. The drain plug is typically at the lowest point of this pan.
- Remove the Oil Fill Cap: Go back to the engine bay and remove the oil fill cap from the top of the engine. This allows air to enter and helps the oil drain faster and more completely.
- Loosen and Remove the Drain Plug: Using the correct size wrench, loosen the drain plug. Turn it counterclockwise. Once loose, finish unscrewing it by hand, but be prepared for hot oil to gush out immediately. Push the plug away from the stream as you remove it and let the oil drain into the pan.
Allow the oil to drain for at least 10-15 minutes. A complete drain ensures you remove as much old, dirty oil as possible. While it drains, you can move on to the next step.
Replace The Oil Filter
The filter holds old oil and debris, so replacing it is just as important as changing the oil itself.
- Locate the Oil Filter: It’s usually on the side of the engine block. It looks like a metal or white plastic canister. Place your drain pan underneath it, as it will contain about half a quart of oil.
- Remove the Old Filter: Use an oil filter wrench if it’s on tight. Turn it counterclockwise. Once loose, unscrew it by hand. Tilt the open end up as you remove it to minimize spills. Let any remaining oil drip into your drain pan.
- Prepare the New Filter: Take a small amount of fresh, new oil and use your finger to lubricate the rubber gasket on the top of the new filter. This ensures a good seal and prevents the gasket from sticking or tearing during the next change.
- Install the New Filter: Screw the new filter on by hand. Once the gasket makes contact, tighten it an additional three-quarter turn as per the instructions on the filter. Do not overtighten it with the wrench, as this can damage the gasket.
Reinstall The Drain Plug And Add New Oil
With the old oil drained and the new filter in place, you’re ready to close the system and add fresh lubricant.
- Clean and Reinstall the Drain Plug: Wipe the drain plug and the drain hole area clean with a rag. Check the plug’s washer for damage; replace it if necessary. Screw the plug back in by hand to avoid cross-threading, then tighten it snugly with the wrench. Avoid excessive force, which can strip the threads.
- Lower the Vehicle: Carefully remove the jack stands and lower the car completely to the ground. Ensure it is level before adding new oil.
- Add New Engine Oil: Place your funnel in the oil fill hole. Pour in the recommended amount of new oil, typically 4 to 6 quarts for most cars. Start with about three-quarters of the total amount, then you will check the level.
- Check the Oil Level: Wait a minute for the oil to settle in the pan. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and then pull it out again to check the level. The oil should be between the “Low” and “Full” marks. Add oil in small increments, checking each time, until it reaches the “Full” mark.
Reset The Oil Life Monitor And Dispose Of Old Oil
Your final tasks are digital and environmental. Both are important for your car’s records and for the planet.
Reset Your Vehicle’s Maintenance Reminder
Most modern cars have an oil life monitoring system. Consult your owner’s manual for the specific procedure to reset this light. It often involves a sequence of pressing the odometer or trip button while turning the ignition.
Proper Oil and Filter Disposal
Never pour used oil down a drain or on the ground. It is highly toxic and contaminates water supplies. Pour the used oil from your drain pan into a clean, sealable container like the empty new oil bottles. Take both the used oil and the old filter to a recycling center. Most auto parts stores and service stations accept them for free.
Essential Tips For A Successful Oil Change
Beyond the basic steps, these insights will help you do the job better and understand the “why” behind the process.
Choosing The Right Oil And Filter
Using the correct products is non-negotiable for engine health. Your owner’s manual is the ultimate authority.
- Oil Viscosity and Type: The manual specifies a grade (e.g., 0W-20, 5W-30) and likely a standard (like API SN). Stick to it. Consider synthetic oil for better performance and longer intervals, if your car allows it.
- Oil Filter Quality: Don’t buy the cheapest filter. A quality filter has better anti-drain back valves and filtration media, which protects your engine from wear.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Awareness of these pitfalls will make your first oil change go smoothly.
- Over-tightening the Drain Plug or Filter: This is a very common error. It can strip threads or crush gaskets, leading to expensive repairs. Snug is sufficient.
- Using the Wrong Oil: Putting in 10W-40 when your car needs 5W-20 can affect fuel economy and cold-start protection.
- Forgetting to Lubricate the New Filter Gasket: A dry gasket can tear or not seal, causing a major leak.
- Not Checking for Leaks Afterward: Always do a final visual inspection after running the engine. A small drip can become a big problem on the road.
How Often Should You Change Your Oil?
The old rule of “every 3,000 miles” is largely outdated. Follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation found in the manual, which is often between 5,000 to 10,000 miles for modern cars using synthetic oil. Severe driving conditions—like frequent short trips, extreme heat or cold, or heavy towing—may require more frequent changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about changing your car’s engine oil.
Can I Change My Oil Without Jacking Up The Car?
Some vehicles, particularly trucks and SUVs with high ground clearance, may provide enough room to reach the drain plug without jacking. However, for most sedans and coupes, you will need to safely lift the car to access the oil pan and filter properly. Never crawl under a car supported only by a jack.
What Is The Difference Between Synthetic And Conventional Oil?
Conventional oil is refined from crude oil. Synthetic oil is chemically engineered to provide superior performance: it flows better in cold weather, resists breaking down in high heat, and generally offers longer engine life and extended change intervals. Many newer cars require synthetic blends or full synthetic oils.
How Do I Know If My Oil Needs Changing?
Besides mileage, check the oil’s condition on the dipstick. Fresh oil is amber and translucent. Old oil becomes dark black and gritty. Also, listen for increased engine noise or watch for a lit dashboard warning light (an oil can icon). Your car’s maintenance reminder is the best indicator.
What Happens If I Put Too Much Oil In My Engine?
Overfilling is serious. Excess oil can be whipped into foam by the crankshaft, leading to poor lubrication, increased pressure, and potential seal damage or oil burning. If you overfill, you must drain the excess, either by loosening the drain plug slightly or using a fluid extraction pump through the dipstick tube.
Is It Necessary To Change The Oil Filter Every Time?
Yes, you should replace the oil filter with every oil change. The filter traps harmful particles, and it becomes clogged over time. A old filter can bypass dirty oil back into your engine or restrict flow, negating the benifits of your fresh oil. It’s inexpensive insurance for your engine’s health.