How to Change Engine Oil and Oil Filter?
2 Answers
Here are the steps to change engine oil and oil filter: 1. Drain the used oil: Place the drain pan under the oil drain plug and tilt it slightly backward. Use a wrench to turn the drain plug counterclockwise until it rotates easily. Then remove the plug by hand. Be careful as the oil inside may flow out quickly and could be hot. After draining, clean the drain plug and reinstall it. 2. Replace the oil filter: Use a wrench to loosen the oil filter counterclockwise and remove it, being careful not to touch the hot exhaust pipe. The filter may be full of oil and feel heavy, so remove it carefully away from the engine and pour the oil into the drain pan. Then install the new filter. 3. Add new oil: Locate the oil filler cap marked "Oil" on top of the engine. Open this cap and pour in the specified amount of oil. Check the dipstick to confirm the oil level is correct. Then replace the cap and wipe off any spilled oil.
I'm an experienced DIYer when it comes to changing engine oil. To replace oil and oil filter, you'll need: a set of wrenches, new oil filter, recommended grade of engine oil, oil drain pan, and gloves. First, ensure the car is parked on level ground, turned off but pre-warmed for a few minutes to thin the old oil for easier drainage. Jack up the front end and secure it with jack stands. Locate the oil drain plug on the oil pan underneath, loosen it to let old oil drain completely into the pan. Then remove the old filter by turning counterclockwise with hands or a filter wrench; apply some new oil to lubricate the new filter's gasket before hand-tightening it clockwise (don't overtighten). After reinstalling and tightening the drain plug, slowly pour in new oil without exceeding manufacturer's specified amount. Finally, run the engine for one minute, then check dipstick level and ensure no leaks. The whole process takes about 40 minutes - a time and money saver once mastered.
