How to Change Your Oil: A Beginner's Guide to DIY Car Maintenance

Changing your car’s oil is a fundamental aspect of vehicle maintenance, often hailed as the lifeblood of your engine. Mastering How To Change Your Oil not only empowers you with a valuable DIY skill but also translates to significant savings and a deeper understanding of your vehicle’s inner workings. As seasoned auto repair professionals at cardiagnosticnearme.com, we recognize this task as a cornerstone for anyone looking to become more car-savvy.

Performing an oil change yourself is a rewarding experience, saving you both time and money compared to dealership or mechanic visits. It’s also an excellent starting point for anyone wanting to get more hands-on with their vehicle maintenance. Think of it as automotive DIY 101.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step of the oil change process. Follow these instructions, and you’ll be confidently changing your oil in no time. While we don’t endorse sleep-driving or car repairs in your sleepwear, we do believe this guide will make the process so straightforward it’ll feel almost second nature.

For more essential vehicle maintenance tutorials, be sure to explore our extensive blog for a wealth of automotive knowledge.

Getting Ready to Change Your Oil

Before diving in, gathering the right tools and materials is crucial for a smooth and efficient oil change. Here’s what you’ll need:

Wrench Set: A socket wrench and a variety of sockets to fit your drain plug and oil filter. Sizes can vary, so having a set ensures you’re prepared.
Oil Filter Wrench: While some oil filters can be removed by hand, an oil filter wrench provides extra grip and leverage for stubborn filters. There are various types available, including band wrenches and claw wrenches.
Funnel: A clean funnel is essential for pouring new oil into the engine without spills.
Oil Drain Pan: A container specifically designed to catch the old oil as it drains. Choose one with a decent capacity and a wide opening to minimize mess.
Car Jack and Jack Stands OR Ramps: Safely lifting your vehicle is necessary to access the oil drain plug. Jack stands are crucial safety equipment when using a jack. Ramps offer an alternative lifting method for some vehicles.
Rags or Shop Towels: Keep plenty of rags or shop towels on hand for wiping up spills and cleaning your tools.
Gloves (Nitrile or Mechanic’s Gloves Recommended): Protect your hands from dirty oil and chemicals.
Safety Glasses: Eye protection is always important when working under a vehicle.
New Engine Oil: The correct type and amount of oil for your vehicle.
New Oil Filter: The correct oil filter for your vehicle.

Selecting the Right Engine Oil for Your Car

Choosing the appropriate engine oil is paramount for your car’s longevity and performance. The correct oil type is determined by your engine’s specifications. You can usually find this information in a couple of key places:

Engine Oil Cap: Many vehicles have the recommended oil grade printed directly on the engine oil cap itself. Look for markings like “5W-30” or “10W-30.”
Owner’s Manual: Your car’s owner’s manual is the definitive guide for all maintenance procedures, including oil changes. It will specify the recommended oil type, viscosity, and sometimes even brands.
Online Oil Finders: Reputable auto parts websites like AutoZone or O’Reilly Auto Parts offer online tools where you can input your vehicle’s year, make, and model to find the correct oil and filter.

Understanding Oil Grades: Oil grades like 5W-30 consist of two parts. The “W” stands for “Winter,” and the number preceding it (5 in this case) indicates the oil’s viscosity at cold temperatures. The second number (30) represents the oil’s viscosity at operating temperatures. Using the correct viscosity ensures proper engine lubrication across different temperature ranges.

Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil: You’ll also need to decide between synthetic and conventional oil. Synthetic oils generally offer superior engine protection, better performance in extreme temperatures, and can sometimes allow for longer oil change intervals. However, they are typically more expensive. Your owner’s manual may recommend a specific type, or you can choose based on your budget and driving habits.

Determining When to Perform an Oil Change

Knowing when to change your oil is crucial for maintaining engine health and preventing premature wear. The frequency of oil changes depends on several factors, including your vehicle’s age, the type of oil used, and your driving conditions.

General Guidelines:

Older Vehicles: Vehicles from the pre-2000s often require oil changes more frequently, typically around every 3,000 miles or every 3 months, especially if using conventional oil.
Newer Vehicles: Modern vehicles, particularly those using synthetic oils, can often go much longer between oil changes, sometimes up to 5,000-7,500 miles or even 10,000 miles in some cases.

Consult Your Owner’s Manual: Again, your owner’s manual is the best resource for your specific vehicle’s recommended oil change interval. It may also provide different intervals based on “normal” vs. “severe” driving conditions.

Severe Driving Conditions: Severe driving can shorten oil change intervals. Examples of severe driving include:

Frequent stop-and-go traffic
Short trips (under 5 miles)
Towing or hauling heavy loads
Driving in dusty or extreme temperature conditions

If you frequently drive in severe conditions, consider more frequent oil changes.

Oil Life Monitoring Systems: Many newer vehicles are equipped with oil life monitoring systems. These systems use algorithms to estimate oil life based on driving conditions and other factors. While helpful, it’s still wise to consult your owner’s manual and not solely rely on these systems, especially as your vehicle ages.

Essential Safety Precautions Before You Begin

Safety is paramount when working on your vehicle. Before you start your oil change, remember these crucial safety guidelines:

Cool Engine: Never work on your vehicle immediately after driving. Allow the engine to cool down completely. Hot oil and engine parts can cause severe burns. Give it at least 30 minutes to an hour to cool down.
Safety Gear: Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris or splashing oil. Gloves are highly recommended to keep your hands clean and protected from chemicals.
Secure Vehicle Lifting: If lifting your vehicle with a jack, always use jack stands to support the car. Never rely solely on a jack to hold the vehicle’s weight. Jack stands are designed for safety and prevent accidents if the jack fails. If using ramps, ensure they are properly positioned and secure, and use wheel chocks behind the rear wheels for added safety.
Proper Ventilation: Work in a well-ventilated area, especially if working indoors like a garage. Used engine oil and exhaust fumes can be harmful.
Dispose of Old Oil Properly: Used engine oil is hazardous waste. Do not pour it down the drain or into the trash. Most auto parts stores and recycling centers accept used oil for proper disposal or recycling.

With safety covered and your tools ready, let’s proceed with the 5 essential steps to change your oil.

Step 1: Safely Elevating Your Vehicle

To access the oil drain plug located underneath your car, you’ll need to safely lift the vehicle. There are two common methods for DIY oil changes: using ramps or using a jack and jack stands.

Method 1: Using Car Ramps

Car ramps are a straightforward option, especially for beginners, if your vehicle has sufficient ground clearance.

Position the Ramps: Place the ramps securely in front of the front tires (or rear tires if your drain plug is more easily accessed from the rear, though front access is more common). Ensure the ramps are on a level, solid surface.
Slowly Drive onto Ramps: Carefully and slowly drive your car onto the ramps. Have someone outside the vehicle guide you to ensure you align properly and don’t overshoot the ramps.
Engage Parking Brake and Wheel Chocks: Once the car is safely on the ramps, firmly engage the parking brake. For extra safety, place wheel chocks (wooden blocks or purpose-made chocks) behind the rear wheels to prevent any rolling.

Method 2: Using a Car Jack and Jack Stands

Using a jack and jack stands provides more ground clearance but requires extra caution and proper technique.

Consult Your Owner’s Manual for Jack Points: Locate the designated jacking points on your vehicle’s frame. These are reinforced areas designed to safely lift the car. Your owner’s manual will show their exact locations. Using incorrect jacking points can damage your vehicle.
Position the Jack: Place the jack under the designated jacking point.
Lift the Vehicle: Slowly and steadily raise the vehicle with the jack until you have enough clearance to work underneath comfortably.
Position Jack Stands: Crucially, before going under the car, place jack stands under the vehicle’s frame at designated support points near the jacking points. Again, your owner’s manual will indicate suitable jack stand placement areas.
Lower Vehicle onto Jack Stands: Carefully lower the jack until the vehicle’s weight is fully supported by the jack stands. Ensure the jack stands are securely positioned and stable.
Engage Parking Brake and Wheel Chocks: As with ramps, engage the parking brake and use wheel chocks for added safety.

Important Safety Reminder: Double-check that the vehicle is stable and securely supported by the jack stands before you get underneath it. Give the car a gentle but firm push to ensure it’s stable on the stands. Never, under any circumstances, work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.

Step 2: Draining the Old Engine Oil

With your vehicle safely lifted, the next step is to locate the oil pan and drain the old engine oil.

Locate the Oil Pan: Crawl under your vehicle and locate the oil pan. It’s typically a large, metal pan located at the bottom of the engine. It’s usually the lowest point under the engine and will have a drain plug at its bottom.
Remove the Undertray (If Applicable): Many modern vehicles have an undertray, a plastic or metal panel underneath the engine compartment to improve aerodynamics. You may need to remove this undertray to access the oil pan drain plug. Undertrays are usually held in place by bolts, screws, or plastic clips. Use your socket wrench or screwdriver to remove these fasteners and carefully detach the undertray.
Position the Oil Drain Pan: Place your oil drain pan directly underneath the oil drain plug. Ensure it’s positioned to catch the oil as it drains.
Loosen the Drain Plug: Using the correct size wrench or socket, loosen the oil drain plug. Important: Before completely removing the plug, just loosen it a bit. This will allow you to control the oil flow and prevent it from gushing out too quickly and making a mess.
Remove the Drain Plug: Once loosened, carefully unscrew the drain plug by hand for the last few turns. Hold the drain plug as you remove it completely, as oil will start flowing out immediately. Be prepared for the oil to be warm or even hot if the engine hasn’t cooled down completely.
Let the Oil Drain Completely: Allow the old engine oil to drain completely into the drain pan. This may take several minutes. Let it drain until it slows to a slow drip.
Inspect the Drain Plug and Crush Washer: While the oil is draining, inspect the drain plug and its crush washer (a soft metal ring that seals the plug). Check the drain plug for any damage. The crush washer should be replaced with a new one each time you change your oil to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks. New crush washers are often included with new oil filters or can be purchased separately.
Clean the Drain Plug (Optional): You can wipe off the drain plug with a clean rag to remove any metal shavings or debris.
Reinstall the Drain Plug with New Crush Washer: Once the oil has finished draining, install the new crush washer onto the drain plug (if applicable). Then, carefully screw the drain plug back into the oil pan by hand to avoid cross-threading. Once it’s hand-tight, use your wrench to tighten it to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification. If you don’t have a torque wrench, tighten it snugly but don’t overtighten, as this can damage the oil pan. A good rule of thumb is to tighten it to about “hand-tight plus a quarter turn.”
Reinstall the Undertray (If Removed): If you removed an undertray, reinstall it securely, making sure all fasteners are tightened.

Step 3: Replacing the Oil Filter

After draining the old oil, the next crucial step is to replace the oil filter. The oil filter removes contaminants from the engine oil, keeping it clean and effective.

Locate the Oil Filter: The location of the oil filter varies depending on your vehicle’s engine. It’s usually found somewhere on the engine block, often accessible from either under the car or from the engine compartment under the hood. If you are unsure of its location, consult your owner’s manual.
Position the Drain Pan (Again): Place your oil drain pan underneath the oil filter. Even after draining the oil pan, the oil filter still contains some oil, and you’ll want to catch any spills.
Loosen the Oil Filter: Some oil filters can be unscrewed by hand. Try gripping the filter firmly and turning it counterclockwise. If it’s too tight to remove by hand, use an oil filter wrench. Select the appropriate type of oil filter wrench for your filter (band wrench, claw wrench, etc.) and use it to loosen the filter.
Unscrew and Remove the Old Oil Filter: Once loosened, continue unscrewing the oil filter by hand until it’s completely removed. Be prepared for some residual oil to spill out as you remove the filter. Hold the old filter upright as you remove it to minimize spillage and carefully place it in your drain pan.
Prepare the New Oil Filter: Take your new oil filter and locate the rubber gasket (O-ring) around its opening. Take some of the new, clean engine oil and lightly lubricate this rubber gasket with your finger. This helps create a good seal when you install the new filter and prevents it from sticking.
Check the Oil Filter Mounting Surface: Inspect the oil filter mounting surface on the engine block where the old filter was removed. Make sure the old oil filter’s rubber gasket is not stuck to the mounting surface. If it is, carefully remove it. Double-sealing with two gaskets will cause a major oil leak.
Install the New Oil Filter: Thread the new oil filter onto the mounting stud by hand, turning it clockwise. Screw it on until the rubber gasket makes contact with the mounting surface. Then, tighten it further, usually about ¾ to 1 full turn, as specified on the oil filter box or instructions. Do not overtighten the oil filter. Tightening it too much can damage the gasket and make it difficult to remove next time. Hand-tightening plus a ¾ to 1 turn is usually sufficient.
Wipe Up Spills: Clean up any spilled oil around the oil filter mounting area with a rag.

Step 4: Adding New Engine Oil

With the old oil drained and the new filter installed, you’re ready to add fresh engine oil.

Lower Your Vehicle (If Raised with Jack and Jack Stands): If you used a jack and jack stands, carefully lower your vehicle back down to the ground. If you used ramps, you can either back down carefully or leave the vehicle on the ramps for the next step, depending on the location of your oil fill cap.
Locate the Oil Fill Cap: Open your vehicle’s hood and locate the engine oil fill cap. It’s usually marked with an oil can symbol and the recommended oil grade. It’s typically on top of the engine valve cover.
Remove the Oil Fill Cap: Unscrew and remove the oil fill cap.
Insert the Funnel: Place your clean funnel into the oil fill opening. This will prevent spills as you pour in the new oil.
Pour in New Engine Oil: Refer to your owner’s manual or the oil capacity information you found earlier to determine the correct amount of oil for your engine. It’s usually expressed in quarts or liters. Start by pouring in about ¾ of the recommended amount. You can always add more, but it’s harder to remove excess oil.
Replace the Oil Fill Cap: Once you’ve poured in the initial amount of oil, remove the funnel and replace the oil fill cap, tightening it securely by hand.

Determining How Much Oil Your Car Needs

Knowing the correct oil capacity for your vehicle is essential to avoid overfilling or underfilling the engine.

Owner’s Manual: Your owner’s manual is the most reliable source for your car’s exact oil capacity. Look for the “Engine Oil Capacity” specification in the maintenance or specifications section.
Online Resources: Websites like AutoZone, O’Reilly Auto Parts, or vehicle-specific forums often provide oil capacity information for various makes and models.
Oil Capacity Charts at Auto Parts Stores: Many auto parts stores have oil capacity charts or computer systems that can quickly look up the correct capacity for your vehicle.

It’s always better to slightly underfill initially and then top up as needed after checking the dipstick. Overfilling can be as harmful as underfilling, potentially causing engine damage.

Step 5: Checking Oil Levels and Finalizing the Oil Change

The final step is to check the oil level and complete the oil change process.

Wait a Few Minutes: After adding the new oil and replacing the fill cap, wait a few minutes (around 5-10 minutes) to allow the oil to settle in the engine and drain down into the oil pan. This will ensure an accurate dipstick reading.
Locate the Dipstick: Find the engine oil dipstick. It’s usually a brightly colored handle (often yellow or orange) with an oil can symbol, located near the engine.
Pull Out and Wipe the Dipstick: Pull the dipstick out completely and wipe it clean with a rag or shop towel. This removes the initial oil reading and allows for a fresh, accurate measurement.
Reinsert the Dipstick: Fully reinsert the dipstick back into its tube, pushing it all the way down until it’s seated.
Pull Out and Read the Dipstick: Pull the dipstick out again and observe the oil level on the dipstick. Most dipsticks have markings indicating the “minimum” and “maximum” or “low” and “full” oil levels. The oil level should be between these marks, ideally closer to the “full” mark.
Add More Oil if Needed: If the oil level is below the “minimum” or “low” mark, add a little more new engine oil through the fill opening, using your funnel. Add oil in small increments (e.g., ¼ quart or less) and re-check the dipstick level after each addition. Repeat until the oil level is within the acceptable range on the dipstick. Avoid overfilling.
Start the Engine and Check for Leaks: Once the oil level is correct, start your engine and let it run for a minute or two. While the engine is running, carefully check underneath your car (where the drain plug and oil filter are located) for any oil leaks. Look for drips or signs of oil seeping from these areas.
Turn Off Engine and Re-Check Oil Level: Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes again for the oil to settle back into the pan. Re-check the oil level with the dipstick one last time to ensure it’s still within the acceptable range.
Reset Oil Life Monitoring System (If Applicable): If your vehicle has an oil life monitoring system, reset it according to your owner’s manual instructions. This usually involves a sequence of steps using the car’s controls.
Properly Dispose of Used Oil and Filter: Pour the used engine oil from your drain pan into a sealable container (like the empty oil bottles). Take the used oil and old oil filter to a designated collection point for recycling or proper disposal. Most auto parts stores, service stations, and recycling centers accept used oil.
Record Your Oil Change: Keep a record of your oil change, including the date, mileage, oil type, and filter used. This helps you track your maintenance schedule and stay on top of future oil changes. You can use a notebook, a car maintenance app, or simply make a note in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully changed your car’s oil. With practice, you’ll become even faster and more confident in this essential DIY car maintenance task.

How To Change Car Oil: Frequently Asked Questions

Can I just add oil instead of changing it? (Topping Off Oil)

While topping off your oil by adding more when it’s low might seem like a quick fix, it’s not a substitute for regular oil changes. Over time, engine oil degrades, loses its viscosity, and becomes contaminated with dirt, metal particles, and combustion byproducts. Simply adding new oil to old oil dilutes the contamination but doesn’t remove it. Old oil loses its ability to properly lubricate and protect your engine, potentially leading to increased wear and tear. Regular oil changes, including replacing the oil filter, are essential for maintaining engine health and longevity.

Is it worth changing your own oil? (DIY Oil Change Benefits)

Absolutely! Learning how to change your oil offers numerous benefits:

Cost Savings: DIY oil changes are significantly cheaper than professional services at dealerships or mechanic shops. You only pay for the oil and filter, saving on labor costs.
Time Savings (Potentially): While the first time might take a bit longer, once you’re familiar with the process, a DIY oil change can often be quicker than scheduling an appointment and driving to a shop.
Vehicle Familiarity: Performing your own oil changes helps you become more familiar with your vehicle’s components and basic maintenance. It’s a gateway to learning more about car care.
Skill Development: Changing your oil is a valuable skill that can save you money and increase your self-reliance. If you’re considering a career in automotive repair, it’s a fundamental skill to master.
Quality Control: You have control over the quality of oil and filter used, ensuring you’re using products that meet your vehicle’s requirements.

How difficult is it to change my car’s oil by myself? (Difficulty Level)

With a bit of guidance and patience, changing your car’s oil is considered one of the easiest car maintenance tasks for DIYers. It’s not overly complex and doesn’t require specialized tools beyond basic wrenches and a drain pan. If you can follow instructions and are comfortable using basic hand tools, you can definitely learn to change your oil. This guide provides detailed step-by-step instructions to make the process clear and manageable, even for beginners.

Now that you’ve learned how to change oil, why not expand your automotive knowledge further? At cardiagnosticnearme.com, we are dedicated to providing you with the expertise and resources to understand and maintain your vehicle. Explore our website for more guides, tips, and information to keep your car running smoothly and reliably for years to come.

How to Change Your Oil: A Beginner’s Guide to DIY Car Maintenance