What are the steps for changing engine oil and oil filter?
2 Answers
1. Remove the drain plug to drain the engine oil. 2. After draining, clean the drain plug and reinstall it. Tighten it to the specified torque: 30N·m 3. Loosen the oil filter using an oil filter wrench. 4. Apply engine oil to the O-ring of the new oil filter. 5. Hand-tighten the new oil filter onto the filter bracket until the O-ring contacts the mounting surface. Then, use the oil filter wrench to tighten it further. Pay attention to the exact position where the O-ring initially contacts the mounting surface for proper tightening. 6. After contact with the mounting surface, tighten the filter an additional 3/4 turn using the oil filter wrench. Tightening torque: 15N·m. For safe operation, note the following when changing the engine oil filter: Park the car on a level surface, as an inclined surface may prevent complete drainage of old oil. It's best to change the engine oil filter before driving. If the engine has been running, wait at least 30 minutes after shutdown to allow the oil to fully return to the oil pan.
When I first learned to work on my car, changing the oil felt a bit challenging but manageable. The first step is to warm up the engine for a few minutes to let the oil flow smoothly, then park on level ground and turn off the engine. Use a jack stand to lift the car safely. Wear gloves, place a drain pan under the engine, locate the drain plug, and loosen it to let the old oil flow into the pan. Take your time with this step—wait until it stops dripping to ensure it's fully drained. Next, replace the oil filter, usually located near the edge of the engine. Use a tool to remove the old filter, apply a bit of new oil to the seal of the new filter, and screw it back on tightly to prevent leaks. Then reinstall the drain plug without over-tightening. Open the new oil container and slowly pour it into the engine using a funnel, checking the dipstick to avoid exceeding the maximum level. After finishing, start the engine for a few minutes and check underneath for any leaks. Beginners should have tools like wrenches and funnels ready. A common mistake is overfilling, which can damage the engine. Oil should be changed every six months to maintain performance.