What are the precautions when changing car engine oil?
4 Answers
Precautions when changing car engine oil are: 1. Perform the operation when the engine is warm to ensure the old oil is drained as completely as possible; 2. Add the new oil and ensure the amount is appropriate; 3. After adding the oil, start the engine and check all components for any leaks. Run the engine for 3 minutes to confirm the oil level reaches the normal mark. Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, serves to lubricate and reduce friction, assist in cooling, seal against leaks, prevent rust and corrosion, and cushion shocks. The steps for changing engine oil are: 1. Lift the car, remove the undercover, and place a container of about 10 liters under the oil drain plug; 2. Unscrew the drain plug, use an air gun to blow into the oil filler port for two minutes, then tighten the drain plug and wipe it with a paper towel to check for leaks; 3. Reinstall the undercover, lower the car, and use a funnel to add the new oil through the filler port.
As an experienced DIY car enthusiast, I always keep a few key points in mind when changing engine oil. First and foremost is safety: always wait until the engine has cooled down, otherwise there's a high risk of burns. I usually wait about half an hour after turning off the engine. The second step is choosing the correct oil - you need to check the viscosity and type recommended in your vehicle's manual, such as SAE 5W-30 which is common for many cars. Don't just buy cheap oil randomly. During the oil change process, use an appropriate container to catch the old oil to avoid spills and environmental contamination. Remember to change the oil filter at the same time, and apply some new oil to the new filter's gasket before installation for better leak prevention. When adding new oil, pour it slowly and don't exceed the upper limit on the dipstick - too much oil can affect engine performance. After finishing, I always start the engine for a few minutes to check for leaks and reset the oil life reminder system on the dashboard. Change your oil regularly every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers, and keep good maintenance records to prevent forgetting.
I enjoy DIY oil changes as it saves money and gives a sense of accomplishment, but there are many details to pay attention to during the process. Preparing tools is fundamental: essential items include an oil filter wrench, a large container for the old oil, gloves, and rags to protect your hands. Park on level ground and engage the parking brake to prevent rolling. When draining the old oil, loosen the drain plug carefully to control the flow rate and avoid spills on the ground. It's also crucial to replace the oil filter—old filters must be completely removed to prevent residue buildup. I hand-tighten the new filter to avoid over-tightening and damage. When adding new oil, pour it in stages and check the dipstick intermittently to ensure the correct level—too little oil leads to insufficient lubrication, while overfilling can cause smoke. After finishing, I take a short test drive to ensure no unusual noises or leaks. Finally, I take the used oil to an auto repair shop for recycling to avoid pollution. Regular maintenance extends the car's lifespan and saves money—I do it every six months or 8,000 kilometers.
Safety is paramount when changing engine oil, and I emphasize protection to avoid accidents. Before starting, wear gloves and goggles to protect your skin and eyes, and ensure the engine has cooled down to prevent burns. Use a dedicated container to catch the old oil during drainage to avoid spills, which are messy to clean and harmful to the environment. Remember, replacing the oil filter is a must-do step simultaneously. Choose the correct oil grade for the new oil—don’t skimp on specifications to save costs, as it can damage the engine. After completing the job, checking oil levels and for leaks is crucial; ensure no issues remain before driving. Following the manual’s recommended maintenance intervals helps prevent major repairs, and I keep a log of dates to maintain a proper service record.
