Changing your car's oil is one of the most important maintenance tasks you can do to keep it running smoothly. Oil lubricates the engine and helps to prevent wear and tear. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes less effective, so it's important to change it regularly.
How often you need to change your oil depends on a number of factors, including your driving habits, the type of oil you use, and the make and model of your car. Most cars need their oil changed every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, but some cars may need it more or less often. Check your owner's manual for the recommended oil change interval for your car.
- Car Care >
- Car Electronics & Accessories
- Exterior Accessories
- Interior Accessories
- Lights & Lighting Accessories
- Motorcycle & Powersports
- Oils & Fluids
- Paint & Paint Supplies
- Performance Parts & Accessories
- Replacement Parts
- RV Parts & Accessories
- Tires & Wheels
- Tools & Equipment
Step-by-step guide on how to change car oil
Changing your car's oil is a relatively simple task that can be done at home with a few basic tools. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to change car engine oil.
Step 1: Gather your supplies
Before you start, you'll need to gather the following supplies:
- New engine oil (check your owner's manual for the correct type and amount)
- Oil filter
- Oil drain pan
- Funnel
- Rags
- Wrench or socket to remove the oil drain plug
Step 2: Warm up the engine
Running the engine for a few minutes before you change the oil will help it flow more easily.
Step 3: Locate the oil drain plug and oil filter
The oil drain plug is located on the bottom of the oil pan. The oil filter is usually located near the oil drain plug, but it can be in a different location depending on the make and model of your car.
Step 4: Place the oil drain pan under the oil drain plug
Be careful, as the oil will be hot.
Step 5: Loosen the oil drain plug
Use the wrench or socket to loosen the oil drain plug. Be careful not to drop it into the oil drain pan.
Step 6: Allow the oil to drain
This may take a few minutes.
Step 7: Remove the oil filter
Use the wrench or socket to loosen the oil filter. Be careful not to spill any oil.
Step 8: Apply a thin coat of new oil to the gasket of the new oil filter
This will help to create a seal and prevent leaks.
Step 9: Screw on the new oil filter by hand until it is snug
Do not over-tighten.
Step 10: Replace the oil drain plug
Tighten the oil drain plug with the wrench or socket.
Step 11: Add new oil to the engine
Use the funnel to add new oil to the engine. Be careful not to overfill the engine. Check the oil level gauge to make sure that the oil level is between the "full" and "add" marks.
Step 12: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes
Check for any leaks.
Step 13: Turn off the engine and check the oil level again
Add more oil if necessary.
Step 14: Dispose of the old oil and oil filter properly
You can take the old oil and oil filter to a local auto parts store for proper disposal.
Here are some additional tips for changing your car's oil:
- If you drive in dusty or sandy conditions, you may need to change your oil more often.
- Use the correct type of oil for your car. Check your owner's manual for the recommended type and amount of oil.
- Do not overtighten the oil filter or oil drain plug.
- Dispose of the old oil and oil filter properly.
- Always wear safety glasses when working on your car.
- Be careful not to burn yourself on the hot oil.
- Dispose of the old oil and oil filter properly.
