How to Change the Oil in a Car
Created by Cheli
Step‑by‑step guide to safely drain and replace engine oil, including preparation, execution, and cleanup.
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Checklist Items (24)
Gather Materials and Tools
Determine oil specifications
Consult the owner's manual for the correct viscosity grade and required quantity.
Purchase correct oil filter
Match the filter part number to your vehicle's make, model, and engine.
Assemble tools
Gather wrench set, oil drain pan, funnel, gloves, rags, jack and jack stands or ramps.
Optional tools
Consider a torque wrench and oil filter wrench for proper tightness.
Prepare the Vehicle
Warm up engine
Run the engine for 2‑3 minutes to reduce oil viscosity for easier draining.
Park safely
Place the car on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
Lift the front end
Use a jack to raise the front, then support with jack stands or drive onto ramps.
Drain Old Oil
Locate drain plug
Find the oil drain plug at the lowest point of the oil pan.
Position drain pan
Place the oil drain pan directly under the plug, ensuring it can hold the expected volume.
Loosen and remove plug
Use a wrench to loosen the plug, then finish removing it by hand to let oil drain.
Allow complete drainage
Let oil drain for 5‑10 minutes, then inspect the plug and washer; replace washer if worn.
Replace Oil Filter
Position pan under filter
Move the drain pan to catch any oil that may escape when removing the filter.
Loosen old filter
Use an oil filter wrench to turn the old filter counter‑clockwise.
Remove old filter
Take off the filter, ensuring the old gasket comes away with it to avoid a double gasket.
Lubricate new filter gasket
Apply a thin film of fresh oil to the rubber gasket of the new filter.
Install new filter
Screw the new filter on by hand until the gasket contacts the mounting surface, then tighten an additional 3/4 turn.
Add New Oil
Reinstall drain plug
Replace the drain plug with a new washer if needed and torque to the manufacturer's specification (typically 20‑25 ft‑lb).
Insert funnel
Place a clean funnel into the oil filler neck to avoid spills.
Pour fresh oil
Add the recommended amount of new oil, checking the dipstick periodically to prevent over‑filling.
Check for Leaks and Level
Inspect for leaks
Start the engine and let it idle for about one minute, then look for any oil leaks at the drain plug and filter.
Verify oil level
Turn off the engine, wait a minute, then check the oil level with the dipstick; add more oil if low.
Clean Up, Dispose, and Finalize
Store used oil
Transfer the collected used oil from the drain pan into a sealed container for transport.
Recycle oil and filter
Take the used oil and filter to a recycling center or an auto parts store that accepts them.
Record service details
Note the date, mileage, oil type, and filter part number for future maintenance tracking.