How do I change the oil?

One of the most frequent maintenance tasks for cars is changing the oil regularly, also known as an oil change. Learn how to change your oil quickly and without getting too messy. You’ll save money and extend the life of your engine.

Example of an oil change on a car

Buying an oil filter and good engine oil

Before going to a garage or ordering your parts online, consult your vehicle’s manual to find out what type of oil to use. It is especially important to follow the car manufacturer’s recommendations regarding this. Modern engines rely on oil pressure to regulate valve timing and apply the correct tension to the timing belt or chain. Not following the manufacturer’s recommendations can damage your engine or reduce its performance.

There is a huge difference between a budget oil filter and a higher-end version, but the price difference is minimal. If you use low-grade oil but change it every 5,000 km, you can manage with a budget filter. However, if you regularly forget and exceed this mileage, or use synthetic blends, consider buying a quality filter.

Equipment Needed for an Oil Change

• You don’t need many tools to do an oil change, but make sure you have everything you need to avoid problems during the process.
• Here’s the essential equipment for changing your car’s oil:
• Axle stands (ideally four to properly stabilize your vehicle).
• An oil filter.
• A container of oil. A set of wrenches to remove the filter.A container for the extracted oil or
• an oil drain pump.

A new drain plug (unless you’re using an oil pump).

car on jack stands

First, put your car on jack stands (if you’re not using an oil pump) and warm up the engine to warm the oil. This will make it more fluid, making the job easier and saving you time.

The second step is to protect the ground with a tarp and place a container underneath to collect the used oil that will be drained from the reservoir. Then, use a screwdriver to remove the protective cover to access the oil pan located under your vehicle. Make sure your collection container is properly positioned underneath before unscrewing it, and be sure to wear gloves to avoid getting burned by the hot oil.

Now that your oil reservoir is empty, you’ll need to change the oil filter located under the hood of your vehicle. Use a wrench to loosen it; your filter might be stuck. If so, use a screwdriver to pry it loose.

Then take your new filter and apply oil to the sealing ring to promote lubrication. This will make removal easier the next time you change the oil. Once the new filter is installed, go back under your vehicle to replace the drain plug and add oil, checking the dipstick regularly.