Which is Better: Oil Extraction or Oil Drain?
2 Answers
Whether oil extraction or oil drain is better depends on the vehicle model and specific needs. Here is relevant knowledge about oil extraction and draining: Oil filter located in the upper section: For vehicle models where the oil filter is positioned in the upper section of the engine, oil extraction is often recommended. This method allows for minor maintenance to be completed without removing the underbody cover or unscrewing the oil drain bolt, making it more convenient. Oil filter located in the lower section: For vehicle models where the oil filter is positioned in the lower section of the engine, after lifting the vehicle with a hoist, the oil drain bolt needs to be unscrewed to drain the oil, utilizing gravity for the process. Performing minor maintenance: To protect the oil pan and the sealing of the drain bolt, extending the bolt's service life, the oil extraction method is proactively chosen for minor maintenance.
I often change the oil myself and find that both oil extraction and oil draining have their pros and cons. Oil extraction uses a vacuum pump to suck the oil out from the dipstick hole at the top of the engine, eliminating the need to crawl under the car—saving time and effort, especially in tight urban parking spaces. However, the downside is that it may not clean thoroughly, leaving some residue and impurities in the oil pan. Oil draining requires a lift or crawling under the car to loosen the drain bolt, which is a bit messy, but it allows for a thorough removal of sediment, making it more suitable for older cars. If the vehicle manual recommends oil extraction, go with extraction; otherwise, draining is better. Personally, when I first started DIY, I began with oil extraction but later switched to draining for better maintenance results, always keeping an absorbent cloth handy to prevent spills.
