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Changing Your Own Oil

ryan-frank | Jun 19, 2009 |

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Changing your own car's oil is an easy auto repair job that if you learn to do yourself can save you money and time. Taking your car to the auto repair shop for an oil change may result in hours-long waiting. Performing the procedure yourself only takes about half an hour, at most. Here is a quick easy guide to oil changes.

Preparations
First things first: you should choose a flat surface area to work on, so that you can jack up your car more easily and safely. Wait until your car's engine is completely cooled off before you begin. For this job you'll need a ratchet, an oil filter wrench, an oil catch container, a funnel, a new oil filter, new oil, and an old rag.

Getting the old oil out
Now you have to drain the old oil from the oil pan underneath the engine. The oil is held in by a drain plug. Place the oil catch container under the oil plug before pulling the plug out. Let the oil drain out of the pan completely and then put the drain plug back on. Make sure it is firmly in place but not overly tight.

Removing the old oil filter
Next you have to use the filter wrench to remove the old oil filter. Turn counterclockwise. Old oil spills may cause slipping so be careful. On most vehicles, the filter is accessible from under the engine.

Putting in the new filter
Now that you've drained the oil and removed the old filer, it's time to put in the new filter. Prepare the new filter by lubricating its gasket with a bit of new oil. Then, fill the filter up with oil 2/3 of the way. Screw the new filter into place, turning clockwise, making sure it is not too tight but secure.

Refill the engine
Remove the oil cap at the top of the engine and insert the funnel. Pour in the new oil via the funnel and make sure to only pour in ¾ the amount of oil that your car's owner's manual says the car's engine can contain.

And finally
Check your oil level and make sure it's right. If it needs more oil, pour more. Now screw the oil cap on, and you're done.

If you are looking to have more great tips on maintaining your vehicle, San Diego Auto Shops is a great place to check out.