How To Change The Oil In Your Car

Changing the oil in your car is crucial to keeping it running smoothly. Not only does it help your car run better, but it also helps extend its life. So this article is here to walk you through changing the oil in your car. It will provide you with all the information you need to know to do it yourself and some tips to make the process easier. So, whether you are a first-time oil changer or a seasoned pro, read on for everything you need to know about changing the oil in your car!

Why Your Car Needs Oil

The importance of oil in a car cannot be stressed enough! Oil is essential for keeping your engine running smoothly and efficiently, as it lubricates the internal components to move and rotate in harmony. It also helps to maintain proper temperature and prevents corrosion by trapping dirt particles, so that engine parts stay clean and protected.

Regularly replacing your car’s oil increases efficiency and extends its life by many years. In addition, investing in an oil change now and then can save you up the road from any major repair expenses or engine breakdowns.

How Often Should You Change Your Oil?

It’s vital for the health of your car to know how often you should change the oil. Generally, you should change the oil every 3,000 miles or three months — whichever comes first. That may seem like a lot if you don’t drive much, but with regular drives, it adds up quickly and helps your car stay in optimum condition during its lifespan.

Keeping this schedule can also increase fuel efficiency and reduce exhaust emissions, as dirt and debris accumulate more slowly. But if you would like exact specifics, you can consult your car’s owner’s manual or talk to a professional mechanic who can help determine the ideal maintenance schedule for your specific make and model of vehicle.

Finding Which Type Of Oil Your Car Needs

Knowing what kind of oil your car needs is essential to owning a vehicle. The type of oil in your car will depend on the vehicle’s make, model, and year. Finding out which type to use seems challenging, but it’s pretty simple. Most car manufacturers will include information about what oil to use in your owner’s manual.

You can also look for specifications online or ask for advice from a reputable mechanic or auto dealership. No matter what method you choose, making sure to use the correct oil is essential for keeping your engine running smoothly and efficiently into the future.

Supplies You Need To Change Your Car’s Oil

To change your oil successfully, you’ll need the proper supplies. Besides obtaining the right grade of oil for your car, you’ll want a ratchet, drain pan, and oil filter with a crush gasket. An oil filter wrench will also be handy since it helps grip and remove tough filters more easily. Finally, remember to stock up on rags or wipes for cleaning any spills or messes along the way.

A funnel is also great for ensuring an accurate and smooth pour back into the engine as well. Having all these different items ready will allow you to easily and confidently change your oil.

How To Change The Oil In Your Car

You are finally ready for the important part, changing the oil in your car. Here are the basic steps you’ll need to follow to get the job done:

Step 1: Cool Your Engine Down

Before you start working on your engine, be sure to let it sit for at least 15-20 minutes so that it can cool down. This is important not only because hot oil will splash more easily but also because it provides a safer and more comfortable environment for you to work in. And depending on the type of car you have, it is also a good idea to place some protective shielding on your engine so that no oil gets splashed or spilled.

Step 2: Open The Hood And Locate Your Engine Oil Dipstick

Locating the engine dipstick and pulling it out is relatively easy. All you need to do is look for a tube with a handle coming out of the top and pull it out to measure your car’s oil level. When checking the oil level, squeeze the dipstick and wipe it clean before inserting it back into the tube to get an accurate reading.

Step 3: Removing The Old Oil

This is where the process starts to get more hands-on. To remove the old oil:

1. Start by positioning the drain pan underneath your car’s oil drain plug. If you are still determining where this is, you can typically find a diagram online or inside your car’s manual.
2. Once the drain pan is in place, use your ratchet to loosen and remove the oil plug.
3. Remember that once you pull it out, the oil will start pouring out quickly, so be sure to have your oil pan ready.

Step 4: Replace Your Oil Filter

Next, you’ll want to remove the old oil filter. Where your oil filter is located may vary slightly from car to car, but it is generally found near the front or back of the engine (depending on your specific model) and attached to a metal canister. You can use an oil filter wrench or pliers to get a good grip on the old filter, then twist and pull it off. After you remove it, you’ll need to clean off the surface and prepare it for the installation of a new filter.

Step 5: Installing A New Oil Filter

Once the area is clean and ready to go, you can install the new oil filter. This process takes a bit of finesse – typically, you will need to screw the new filter on by hand until it becomes snug and then give it an extra twist with either the wrench or pliers. If you use a crush gasket, ensure it is securely in place before tightening the oil filter.

Step 6: Adding New Oil

Finally, you are ready to add your new oil. This is where your funnel will come in handy, making the pouring process nice and easy. Pour your new oil into the funnel until you reach the recommended level on your dipstick – then replace the dipstick and turn on your car to ensure everything is working correctly.

You’re Ready To Change The Oil In Your Car!

Learning to change the oil in your car can be a rewarding experience that allows you to take control of your vehicle and protect its engine from damage. Whether you are a new or experienced driver, having the right tools and knowledge can make this process quick and easy. And while it may seem a bit confusing at first, with the proper steps, you may be surprised at home simple it is! So before spending extra money on a mechanic, follow the steps above and start changing your car’s oil like a pro!