Learning how to change the oil in a car is a fundamental skill that can save you money and give you confidence in maintaining your vehicle. Changing your vehicle’s oil is a routine maintenance task that protects the engine from wear and contaminants. With the right tools and a bit of time, you can complete this job yourself.
This guide will walk you through the entire process, from gathering supplies to disposing of the old oil. We will cover everything you need to know to do it safely and correctly.
You will need some basic tools and a place to work. Let’s get started by looking at what you should have ready before you begin.
How To Change The Oil In A Car
This section provides a complete overview of the oil change procedure. Following these steps in order will ensure a smooth process and a job done right.
Gather The Necessary Tools And Supplies
Before you slide under your car, collect all the required items. Having everything within reach makes the job faster and safer. You do not want to be searching for a tool while oil is draining.
Here is a checklist of what you will typically need:
- New engine oil (check your owner’s manual for the correct type and quantity)
- A new oil filter (specific to your car’s make, model, and engine)
- A wrench or socket set for the drain plug (often 14mm, 15mm, or 17mm)
- An oil filter wrench (strap-type or cap-style)
- A drain pan with a capacity of at least 6 quarts
- Jack and jack stands, or vehicle ramps (for safe access)
- Funnel
- Gloves and safety glasses
- Shop rags or paper towels
- A container for the old oil (like the empty new oil bottles)
Prepare Your Vehicle
Proper preparation is crucial for safety and efficiency. Start by parking your car on a level, solid surface like a concrete driveway. Engage the parking brake firmly.
If your car has been running, let the engine cool for about 15-20 minutes. Warm oil flows out more easily, but you want to avoid burning yourself on a hot exhaust or engine component. Now is also a good time to open the hood and remove the oil filler cap on the top of the engine. This helps the oil drain more smoothly.
Securely Lifting The Car
Never rely solely on a jack to hold the vehicle while you are underneath it. You must use jack stands or drive-on ramps for secure support.
- For ramps: Drive up slowly and carefully, then set the parking brake and chock the rear wheels.
- For a jack and stands: Consult your owner’s manual for the correct lift points. Jack up the front of the car, place the stands under the recommended reinforced points, and slowly lower the vehicle onto them. Give the car a gentle shake to ensure it is stable.
Drain The Old Engine Oil
Locate the oil drain plug on the bottom of the engine’s oil pan. It is usually a large bolt at the lowest point. Place your drain pan directly underneath it.
Put on your gloves and safety glasses. Using the correct size wrench, loosen the drain plug. Turn it counterclockwise. Once it is loose, finish unscrewing it by hand, but be prepared for oil to start flowing immediately. Push the plug away quickly and let the oil drain completely. This can take several minutes.
While the oil is draining, inspect the drain plug’s washer. If it is cracked or damaged, replace it with a new one to prevent future leaks. Clean the plug with a rag before reinstalling it later.
Remove And Replace The Oil Filter
The oil filter is usually located on the side of the engine block. It may be accessible from above or below the car. Position your drain pan under the filter as well, as it will contain a fair amount of oil.
Use the oil filter wrench to loosen the old filter. Turn it counterclockwise. Once it is loose, you can unscrew it by hand. Be careful, as it will be full of hot oil. Tip it upside down quickly into the drain pan to minimize spillage.
Before installing the new filter, take a clean rag and wipe off the filter mounting surface on the engine. Then, dip your finger in some 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. Screw the new filter on by hand until the gasket makes contact, then tighten it an additional three-quarter turn as per most instructions. Do not overtighten it with the wrench.
Refill With New Oil
Once the old oil has fully drained and the new filter is installed, you can reinstall the drain plug. Screw it in by hand first to avoid cross-threading, then tighten it with the wrench. Do not overtighten; a snug fit is sufficient.
Carefully lower your car back to the ground if you used jack stands. Remove the funnel from the engine bay. Now, using your funnel, pour the new oil into the opening at the top of the engine. Refer to your owner’s manual for the correct capacity. It is better to start with slightly less than recommended.
After pouring in most of the oil, wait a minute for it 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. Add oil in small increments until the level is between the “Full” and “Add” marks on the dipstick. Replace the oil filler cap securely.
Check For Leaks And Reset The Maintenance Light
Start the engine and let it run for about 30 seconds. This circulates the new oil and fills the new filter. While it’s running, look under the car for any drips from the drain plug or oil filter. If you see a leak, turn off the engine immediately and check the tightness of the plug and filter.
Turn off the engine, wait another minute, and recheck the oil level on the dipstick. Add a little more oil if needed, as the new filter will have absorbed some.
Finally, reset your vehicle’s oil change reminder light if it is illuminated. The procedure varies by car; consult your manual. It often involves a sequence of pressing the odometer button while turning the ignition key.
Properly Dispose Of The Old Oil And Filter
This is a critical step. Never pour used motor oil on the ground, into a drain, or into the trash. It is highly toxic and contaminates the environment.
Pour the used oil from the drain pan into a sealed container, like the empty plastic bottles from your new oil. Take the used oil and the old filter to a recycling center. Most auto parts stores and service stations accept used oil and filters for free recycling. Some require the filter to be drained for 24 hours before accepting it.
Choosing The Correct Oil And Filter
Using the right products for your car is as important as the change itself. The wrong oil can affect performance and even void warranties.
Understanding Oil Viscosity And Types
Oil viscosity, indicated by numbers like 5W-30, refers to its flow characteristics at different temperatures. The “W” stands for winter, and the number before it indicates cold-weather flow. The number after the dash indicates viscosity at operating temperature.
Your owner’s manual specifies the correct viscosity for your climate and driving conditions. You will also need to choose between conventional, synthetic blend, or full synthetic oil. Synthetic oils generally offer better performance and protection, especially in extreme temperatures, and can allow for longer intervals between changes.
Selecting A Quality Oil Filter
Not all oil filters are created equal. A cheap filter may use lower-quality materials that can fail or become less effective over time. Look for a filter from a reputable brand that meets or exceeds your vehicle manufacturer’s specifications.
Consider filters with features like anti-drain back valves (which prevent oil from draining out of the filter when the engine is off) and high capacity media. The correct filter for your car ensures proper oil flow and filtration.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Even with a straightforward process, errors can happen. Being aware of these common pitfalls will help you avoid them.
Over-Tightening The Drain Plug Or Filter
This is a very frequent mistake. Over-tightening the drain plug can strip the threads on the oil pan, leading to costly repairs. Similarly, over-tightening an oil filter can damage its gasket, causing a leak, or make it impossible to remove next time. Hand-tight plus a small additional turn with a tool is usually sufficient.
Using The Wrong Oil Or Filter
Putting in the incorrect oil viscosity or a filter that doesn’t fit properly can lead to poor lubrication, increased engine wear, or leaks. Always double-check the specifications in your owner’s manual or with a reliable parts store lookup tool.
Forgetting To Replace The Drain Plug Washer
The crush washer on the drain plug should ideally be replaced every time. A worn washer can cause a slow oil leak that you might not notice immediately. They are inexpensive and prevent a common source of leaks.
Not Checking The Oil Level After The Change
Always check the dipstick after adding oil and again after running the engine. An incorrect oil level, whether too low or too high, can cause serious engine damage. Too little oil leads to inadequate lubrication, and too much oil can cause foaming and increased pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Change My Car’s Oil?
The old rule of every 3,000 miles is largely outdated. Most modern cars with synthetic oil can go 5,000 to 7,500 miles or more between changes. Always follow the severe service schedule in your owner’s manual if you frequently take short trips, drive in extreme conditions, or do heavy towing.
Can I Change My Oil Without Jacking Up The Car?
For most cars, you need to access the underside to reach the drain plug and filter. Some vehicles, like certain pickup trucks or SUVs, may have enough ground clearance to work without lifting, but it is often cramped and uncomfortable. Using ramps or stands is the standard and safest method.
What Is The Difference Between Synthetic And Conventional Oil?
Conventional oil is refined from crude oil. Synthetic oil is chemically engineered to provide more consistent molecules, offering better performance in high and low temperatures, improved engine cleanliness, and longer life. Synthetic blends mix the two for a middle-ground option.
What Should I Do If I Overfill The Engine With Oil?
If you only slightly overfilled, it may be okay. But a significant overfill can be harmful. The excess oil can be aerated by the crankshaft, creating foam that does not lubricate properly. To fix it, you must drain the excess. You can slightly loosen the drain plug to let some out, or use a manual fluid pump to extract oil 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 contaminants, and over time it becomes clogged. A clogged filter can bypass dirty oil back into the engine or restrict flow. A new filter ensures your fresh oil stays clean.