What are the precautions for changing engine oil?

[VanHope]

Precautions for changing engine oil are: 1. Perform the operation when the engine is warm to ensure the old oil is drained as thoroughly as possible; 2. Add new oil and ensure the quantity is appropriate; 3. After adding oil, start the engine to check for any oil leaks, then run the engine for 3 minutes to confirm the oil level reaches the normal mark. The method for changing engine oil is: 1. Lift the car, remove the undercover, and place a container under the oil drain plug; 2. Unscrew the oil drain plug, use an air gun to blow into the oil filler opening for two minutes, then tighten the drain plug and wipe it with a tissue to check for leaks; 3. Reinstall the undercover, lower the car, and add oil through the filler opening.

[AveryRose]

When changing engine oil, I believe the core principles are safety and precision. As a car owner with years of experience, I've encountered minor accidents, so I always remember to warm up the engine for a few minutes before shutting it off—this helps the oil drain faster. When lifting the vehicle, stability is crucial; use a jack to support the front securely to prevent sudden slips. I always place jack stands as an extra precaution. Wear thick gloves during the process, as used oil can be hot and easily burn your skin. Carefully loosen the drain plug and use a dedicated oil pan to catch the old oil, avoiding ground contamination. The oil filter should also be replaced—don’t cut corners by reusing it. Before adding new oil, check the type and use the viscosity recommended in the manual, such as 5W-30. Measure the oil precisely with a measuring cup and avoid exceeding the MAX line, as overfilling can cause engine vibration. Finally, start the car for a few minutes, check the dipstick to ensure the oil level is midway, and confirm there are no leaks. Don’t dispose of used oil improperly—take it to a recycling center. Change the oil every 5,000 to 8,000 miles to maintain proper engine lubrication and extend its lifespan. DIY oil changes can save money, but safety always comes first.

[OscarRose]

As a DIY enthusiast, I find great joy in changing engine oil, with the focus on tools and meticulous preparation. Before the oil change, find a level driveway or garage, and gather essential tools: a jack, oil drain pan, wrench, new oil filter, and the correct engine oil; full synthetic oil is recommended if the budget allows. After turning off the engine, let it cool slightly while still warm, then jack up the front of the car for easier access. Loosen the drain plug and let the old oil flow slowly into the pan; don’t rush to add new oil—ensure all the old oil has fully drained. The oil filter is often tricky to locate, so take your time aligning and tightening it to prevent leaks; I always keep a rag handy to clean up any residue. When adding fresh oil, use a funnel for a steady pour to avoid spills. Start the engine briefly to check if the oil pressure is normal; the oil level should ideally sit at the midpoint. Don’t forget to recycle the used oil to protect the environment. Change the oil every 5,000 miles—choosing a good-quality oil saves money and protects the engine. Organize your tools for next time; handling this simple task yourself can save hundreds.

[SanIvan]

From a safety-first perspective, I emphasize protective measures to reduce risks. Ensure the engine cools down before contact during operation, and wear goggles and gloves to prevent burns from splashing old oil. Use a reliable jack for vehicle lifting, place old cloths around to catch dripping oil; never work on slopes. Slowly loosen the bolt during oil drainage, collect old oil in a sealed container for proper disposal to avoid pollution. Select the correct oil grade (e.g., 10W-40) as specified in the vehicle manual for the new oil. After refilling, start the engine to check for leaks; the oil level should ideally be between min and max. Clean and store tools properly, ensuring no oil residue remains on the ground. Change oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles to maintain engine lubrication and prevent failures; recycle old oil to protect the environment, ensuring safety for both people and vehicles.