Many car owners worry about their oil changes, primarily for being pricey and being a bit of a hassle. But in reality, changing oil as needed is a must and can be affordable. If you think that changing oil is too expensive at repair shops why not go DIY and do it in your garage? Changing the oil on your own lets you have great control and customization over your car’s maintenance. It can also provide a better understanding of the mechanisms working on your vehicle.
Do-it-yourself oil change is getting popular now for its convenience and is such a money saver. Also, this doesn’t require many tools and high skill to perform. Pretty sure you can perform these seven DIY ways on how to change your own car’s oil to get started.
Gather your filter, wrenches, and other supplies
Oil filters sometimes get clogged, resulting in declining engine performance. The engine gets damaged because of the waste in the oil which is no good for your car. This is why it needs to be changed too for every oil change. Your manual for your vehicle can guide you on the specs of your oil filter. You can then look for the best oil filter from carpassionate.com for a quality standard.
Since the oil filter is hard to remove, you have to use an oil-filter plier or removal wrench. Drain plugs need to be removed from the oil pan too, using a box or socket wrench. Other tools you should include before changing your oil are manuals, jack stands or ramps to elevate your vehicle, gloves, flashlights, an oil drain pan to transfer your used oil, and a funnel for putting in your new oil.
Start then Elevate Your Car
To begin the oil change, turn on your engine to warm it up and reach its average operating temperature. Let it sit and slowly cool down the system, but don’t let things get totally cold. Doing this will make the oil drain more wholly and smoothly. Then, raise the hood to locate the oil drain plug and oil filter.
Elevating your car will grant you easier access and a more precise examination of things. Just be cautious that you’ve installed the jack stand or ramps properly. Ensure that you’ve blocked the rear wheels and set the brake to resist it from slipping.
Locate the Drain Plug and Drain the Old Oil Off
Locate the oil drain plug, usually on the underside of your car. Position your oil drain pan below it. Loosen it using the proper wrench and let the old oil drain into the pan. Watch out since the oil may be hot and may drain rapidly. Once completed, replace the plug by torquing it down to prevent any leaks.
Remove then Install the New Oil Filter
Place the drain pan below the filter. There can still be some remaining oil in it. Slowly loosen and remove it using the oil filter wrench. If it’s possible to do by hand, carefully do it. You can now take your gloves off to have a nice grip.
Using your hand, install the new oil filter by rotating it clockwise a little bit. Once attached, it can now be tightened according to your car’s specification using the filter wrench. Reread to your manual if you are doubtful about the amount of tightness required for your car.
Add the New Right Oil
Once you finish looking at the drain bolts, filter, and everything else if they are placed and tightened, you can finally add your new right oil! Pour it down in approximately one quart less than the amount recommended. You might also want to recheck your drain plug for possible leaks.
Run Your Engine and Check Oil Level
Start your vehicle for a few minutes to circulate the new oil. Turn it off and observe the area for any potential leaks. If you’re sure that there are no more leaks, you can now carefully remove the jack stand or ramps.
Now that your car is positioned on flat ground check the oil level. Since you left a small amount out, it’s normal for the oil level to be a bit low. Fill it up until the level gets full, and you’re ready to go and flaunt your newly changed-oil car!
Dispose Properly the Old Oil
Remember that any used motor oil is highly unsafe for the environment if disposed irresponsibly. Since it’s recyclable, you can transfer to a sealed container and bring it along with your used filter to auto part shops and service stations for those to get recycled.
Takeaway
Changing your oil on your own has remarkable benefits. Just be cautious and take time to research everything before going the DIY route. Don’t worry! it may sound difficult at first, but with the right guides, patience, and a positive outlook, you’ll soon be changing your car oil on your own.
