Do I Need to Use Bricks to Elevate the Car for an Oil Change?
3 Answers
Generally, you don't need to elevate the car for a DIY oil change. You can simply purchase an oil extractor to pump out the engine oil. There are typically two conditions for changing engine oil: 1. Time: Every six months or one year 2. Mileage: When reaching the specified mileage. You should change the oil when either condition is met. If you change the oil without replacing the oil filter, the new oil won't get contaminated. However, if the oil filter is very dirty, its ability to filter impurities decreases. Even though the new oil won't be contaminated immediately, it will become dirty faster. If the oil filter isn't dirty, there's basically no impact. The replacement condition for oil filters is primarily based on mileage and is almost unrelated to time.
I made the same mistake when I was younger, trying to save money by using bricks to elevate the car for an oil change, and it nearly ended in disaster. Bricks are unstable, and with a car weighing over a thousand pounds, any slip or break could be dangerous. Now, I only use dedicated car ramps or a jack with safety stands. For an oil change, the vehicle needs to be raised steadily to safely access and loosen the drain bolt—this step cannot be substituted with makeshift tools. If you're unsure about the procedure, it's better to go to a professional shop for peace of mind and cost savings. The tools aren't expensive; basic equipment for 20-50 yuan is quite reliable. Safety first—don't risk it for a few bucks. Family and health are more important.
As a hands-on car owner, I have to say using bricks to prop up the car for an oil change is too dangerous. Last time I tried it, the car almost tilted, giving me a real scare. Switching to metal ramps or a jack is much better—stable and safe. DIY oil changes can be fun, but be careful: propping up the car is to drain the oil pan, requiring about 10-20 cm of height. Bricks can slip on wet surfaces and might even break. I recommend buying simple ramps online—just a few bucks and easy to use. Remember to engage the parking brake and choose a flat concrete surface. Save where you can, but don’t skimp on safety tools—accidents cost more.
