how to change engine oil in car

[Gia]

Changing your car's engine oil is a straightforward DIY task that can save you money. The core process involves safely lifting the vehicle, draining the old oil, replacing the oil filter, and adding new oil. Always consult your owner's manual for the correct oil type, viscosity, and capacity, as using the wrong product can harm your engine.

Gather Your Supplies First You will need:

• New Engine Oil: Check your manual for the recommended viscosity (e.g., 5W-30) and the required capacity in quarts.
• New Oil Filter: Ensure it's the correct model for your car's make, model, and year.
• Wrench or Socket Set: To remove the drain plug.
• Oil Filter Wrench: Essential for loosening the old filter.
• Drain Pan: To catch the used oil.
• Jack and Jack Stands: Never work under a car supported only by a jack. Jack stands are non-negotiable for safety.
• Funnel and Gloves.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Run the Engine: Warm up the engine for a few minutes. Warm oil flows out more easily, carrying more contaminants with it.
2. Lift the Car Safely: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and place wheel chocks behind the rear tires. Carefully jack up the front of the car and secure it on jack stands.
3. Drain the Old Oil: Locate the oil drain plug on the bottom of the oil pan. Position the drain pan underneath. Using the correct wrench, turn the plug counterclockwise. Loosen it by hand, then quickly unscrew it, pulling it away as oil begins to flow. Let it drain completely.
4. Replace the Oil Filter: Move the drain pan under the oil filter. Use the oil filter wrench to loosen it. Oil will drip out, so be prepared. Before installing the new filter, dip your finger in clean oil and lightly lubricate the rubber gasket on the new filter. This ensures a proper seal. Hand-tighten the new filter according to the instructions on its box—typically ¾ of a turn after the gasket makes contact.
5. Reinstall the Drain Plug: Wipe the drain plug and the hole clean. Reinstall the plug and tighten it securely with a wrench, but avoid over-tightening.
6. Add New Oil: Lower the car from the jack stands. Locate the oil filler cap on top of the engine. Place a funnel in the opening and add the new oil slowly. Start with about ¾ of the recommended capacity.
7. Check the Oil Level: Wait a minute for the oil to settle into the pan. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and pull it out again to check the level. Add more oil in small increments until the level is between the "Full" and "Add" marks.
8. Check for Leaks: Start the engine and let it run for a minute. Look under the car for any drips from the drain plug or filter. Recheck the oil level once more after the engine has been off for a few minutes.

Dispose of Used Oil Properly Used motor oil is a hazardous pollutant. Pour the drained oil from the pan into the empty new oil containers. Take both the used oil and the old filter to an auto parts store or a recycling center that accepts them; this service is almost always free.

[NovaLee]

Honestly, the hardest part is getting the car up safely. Don't skimp on jack stands. The rest is just turning a bolt and a canister. Get a big enough pan—it's messy if you miss. The main thing is using the exact oil your car's manual says. Wrong oil can cause real problems down the line. Tighter isn't always better with the drain plug; just snug it up.