Can I change my car's engine oil by myself?
2 Answers
Car owners can change the engine oil by themselves. Here are the relevant details about engine oil: 1. Functions of engine oil: The main functions of engine oil are lubrication, cleaning, and heat dissipation. In fact, engine oil is used in many parts of a vehicle, but the oil that needs to be changed every 5,000 kilometers refers to the engine oil. Most people generally use semi-synthetic or fully synthetic engine oil, while conventional engine oil is rarely used. Conventional engine oil is usually used in agricultural machinery, tricycles, and motorcycles. 2. Replacement intervals: Conventional engine oil: 5,000 kilometers, semi-synthetic engine oil: 7,500 kilometers, fully synthetic engine oil can go up to 10,000 kilometers before needing a service.
As someone who enjoys DIY car maintenance, I've changed my oil several times and feel completely confident about it. The tools needed are simple: a jack, oil drain pan, wrench, and the correct model of new oil filter. Make sure the car is parked on level ground and the engine has cooled down before starting. Use the jack to lift the car and secure it with jack stands for safety. Open the oil drain plug and let the old oil flow into the pan, being careful not to get burned or spill any. Then replace the new filter, tightening it to avoid leaks. When adding new oil, check the dipstick to ensure you don’t overfill or underfill, and choose a reputable brand as recommended in the manual. The whole process takes about an hour, saving over 300 yuan compared to going to a 4S shop, and you also learn how the car’s internal components work. I store the used oil in old bottles and take it to a recycling point at a repair shop for proper disposal—never pour it out carelessly. Change the oil every 5,000 km to extend engine life. Beginners should watch tutorial videos or ask a friend for guidance first; tools can be borrowed, making it both cost-effective and rewarding.
