How to Change Your Car Oil

For many car owners, changing their car oil may seem like a daunting and challenging task. However, with the right tools and knowledge, changing your car oil is a fairly easy car maintenance task you can perform at home. Keep reading as we outline six easy steps you can follow to change your car oil without hassle.

Begin with the Basics

Different cars have different specifications regarding the type of oil to use and how regularly the oil should be changed. It is best to check your owner's manual or a trusted source on the internet for information regarding your car's oil use before changing your oil.

Oil Change Steps

To successfully change your car’s oil, follow these steps:

Step 1: Jack Up Your Car and Open It Up

First, ensure your car is parked on a level surface, is completely off, and the emergency brake is engaged. Using a jack, lift your car high enough to give yourself room to work underneath. Then, remove the cover over the oil pan and filter.

Step 2: Remove the Drain Plug and Drain Oil

Set up your oil drain pan and remove the drain plug to drain the oil. Allow the oil to drain for approximately five minutes, or until the flow of oil has slowed to a trickle.

Step 3: Remove the Old Oil Filter

With an oil-filter wrench, turn the old oil filter counterclockwise to remove. Be sure to check that the old oil-filter gasket was also removed before installing the new filter.

Step 4: Replace the Drain Plug and Install the New Oil Filter

After the old oil has been drained and the old filter has been removed, replace the drain plug. Then, install the new oil filter. To ensure a proper seal, apply a light coat of oil to the rubber gasket on the top of the oil filter.

Step 5: Refill Oil

After replacing the drain plug and oil filter, reinstall the cover and lower your car. Under the hood, fill the engine with the new oil using a funnel.

Step 6: Check the Oil Level and Check for Leaks

After refilling the engine oil, use the dipstick to check your oil level and ensure there are no leaks.

Contact Our Oil Change Experts

If you’re still not comfortable changing your car oil, or simply don’t want to spend the time, our mechanics are here to help! At Custom Complete Automotive, we offer affordable oil, lube, and filter changes to ensure your engine is kept in excellent condition. To learn more about our oil change services, contact us today!