How To Change Oil In A Car

Yearly maintenance is essential to keep your vehicle running optimally. Taking care of small things like tire alignment, oil change, or smog checks is beneficial to the long-term health of your car, truck, or SUV.

While it is much easier to turn to qualified mechanics for help, there are some things you can take of yourself. Saving money is essential for many consumers, as inflation and rising prices continue to strain millions of Americans. Having some basic knowledge can help your vehicle last longer. 

Today, we will talk about how to perform an oil change. We will explain what role oil plays in your vehicle, state how often you should complete the service, and finish with a detailed description of the process. Let’s get started!

The Role Of Motor Oil

Like any other component of an engine, motor oil plays a significant role in ensuring vehicle health. Its primary function is lubrication, releasing heat caused by friction and combustion. Oil also assists in keeping the engine clean as microscopic deposits build up in the engine. The liquid flows into the oil filter and traps these deposits.

Engine oil ensures protection from corrosion. Fuel combustion generates corrosive acid and damages metal parts in the engine. Motor oil slows this process and seals the pistons and cylinders, forming a protective layer. 

Long-term benefits include but are not limited to longer engine lifespan, proper functioning, and decreased fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. 

How Often Should I Change My Oil?

You should be changing oil every 7,500 - 10,000 miles. Manufacturers previously suggested changing it every 3,000 miles, but modern cars can run without a change for longer due to technological advancements. The best way to know how often to change your oil is to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual. 

Certain driving conditions affect how often the oil needs to be changed. It needs to be changed more frequently if you go off-road or do any racing or heavy towing. In such a case, it’s better to visit a mechanic and determine how often you should go with the process. 

Changing The Oil

Before performing an oil change, ensure you have clear access. Whenever possible, you should jack up the vehicle or drive it onto steel ramps and put a wheel block behind one rear tire. It’s also advisable to start the engine and let it warm up for 2-3 minutes, as this helps the oil heat up and allows it to drain more easily. 

Before performing the service, you’ll need to acquire or prepare the following materials:

• A wrench
• A new oil filter
• An oil drain pan
• A bottle of new motor oil
• A funnel
• A new oil plug

When you finish with preparations, you must do the following to change the oil:

• Look under the car and locate the drain plug: It is a large nut or plug located under the oil pan (large tank) at the bottom of the engine.

• Use an oil drain pan and slide it beneath the engine drain plug: It will catch the oil, escaping the vehicle.

• Unscrew the oil drain plug: Protect your hands with a rag or some paper towels, and prepare to move your hands out of the way. At this point, the oil will escape from the vehicle into the container.

• Remove the cap from the oil filler hole at the top of the engine.

• Locate the filter assembly under the vehicle’s hood: The filter assembly has no universal location, as it can be positioned on the front, back, or side of the engine block. They are often blue, white, or black cylinders about 4-6 inches long and 3 inches wide. 

• Twist the oil filter counterclockwise to remove it: Try it with your hands first. If you are not successful, use a wrench. Make sure the oil pan is still under the car.

• Screw in the new oil filter: Follow directions on the filter, or turn it gently by hand until it “seats,” and then give it another three-quarter turn.

• Wipe the location of the oil drain plug: Do this only after all the oil escapes the vehicle.

• Replace the oil drain plug and use an adjustable wrench to tighten it.

• Use a funnel and pour 1 quart of the new motor oil into the reservoir: Pour slowly to allow the oil time to run down.

• Replace the oil filler cap and run the engine for 30 to 60 seconds: Also, check for leaks around the filter. 

• Shut off the engine for 5-10 minutes for the oil to settle in the oil pan: Remove the oil dipstick, wipe it with a clean, lint-free rag, and shove it back in. Pull it out again and check it.

• Keep adding oil in small amounts: Check the stick after each addition and ensure it is full.

• Remove the oil drain pan and give the vehicle a test drive.

• Let the oil settle for 5-10 minutes, and check the dipstick: The oil reservoir should be full, as indicated by the marker line on the dipstick. 

Summary

Changing engine oil doesn’t necessarily have to be complicated. But it is something you’ll need to do from time to time. After reading this article, you’ll have the know-how to DIY your oil change, saving you some hard-earned cash in the process. 

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