How to Change Engine Oil at Home?

[VonLeah]

Here are the step-by-step methods for changing engine oil at home: 1. Prepare a bucket of engine oil that meets the lubrication standard, an original oil filter, an oil filter tool, an adjustable wrench or a wrench suitable for the size of the oil pan screw, an oil pan, a piece of cotton cloth, start the vehicle for about 1 minute to allow the oil to fully circulate, and then turn off the engine. 2. Open the oil filler cap, and use the tool to loosen the oil filter and oil pan screw. 3. Place the oil pan under the oil pan screw, completely loosen the oil pan screw, and drain the old oil until it stops flowing completely. 4. Tighten the oil pan screw and wipe off excess oil with a cotton cloth. Unscrew the old oil filter, it is recommended to pad with a cotton cloth to avoid burns, apply oil to the seal ring of the new oil filter, and tighten it clockwise. 5. Add new oil from the oil filler port, it is recommended to consult the 4S store in advance for the amount to be added, and tighten the oil filler cap after adding. 6. Restart the engine for 1-2 minutes, observe whether there is oil leakage at the oil pan screw and oil filter, if there is oil leakage, turn off the engine immediately for inspection and treatment; if there is no oil leakage, check the oil level on the dipstick after turning off the engine, and add to the standard position (the position slightly above the middle of the oil scale), the replacement is complete.

[VanPaige]

As a seasoned DIY mechanic with years of experience, safety is my top priority when changing oil. Always ensure the engine is cool before starting, and wear gloves to protect against oil stains. Essential tools include new engine oil, an oil filter, a filter wrench, a jack, safety stands, and a drain pan. Use the jack to lift the car securely—never rely solely on the jack. Place the drain pan beneath the car, loosen the drain plug to remove old oil, and let it drain completely. Remove the old filter, lightly coat the new filter’s gasket with oil, and tighten it snugly without over-tightening. After replacing the plug, slowly add new oil according to the manual’s specifications—avoid overfilling. Check the dipstick to confirm the level is within the marked range. Proper disposal of used oil is crucial; I store it in a container and take it to auto shops for free, eco-friendly recycling. The whole process takes about 30 minutes, extending engine life while saving money and hassle.

[DelClara]

As an average car owner, changing your own oil is super cost-effective and time-saving. Purchase tools, oil, and oil filters online for just a few dozen bucks. After parking and turning off the engine, wait for it to cool down—safety first. Use your own ramps or a jack to lift the front of the car, then slide underneath with an old bucket. Unscrew the drain plug to let the oil out, and replace the oil filter at the same time—make sure the new filter is properly installed to avoid leaks. Pour in the new oil slowly, using a funnel to prevent spills. Check the oil dipstick level. Collect the used oil in a sealed container and take it to a shop for disposal during your next refueling. The first time might be a bit clumsy, but with practice, you can finish in 20 minutes—saving half a day compared to booking a quick service.

[VonEverett]

I prioritize environmental protection and emphasize responsibility when changing oil at home. Ensure the car is parked stably and the engine is cool to minimize risks. Simple steps: drain the old oil into a dedicated container and replace the oil filter. Pour in new oil while controlling the amount. The key is disposing of the old oil—I store it and take it to AutoZone for free recycling to avoid soil contamination. DIY reduces bottle cap waste by minimizing opened containers. Always wear proper safety gear during the process.