How to Change the Oil in a Car
Changing the oil in a car is an essential, and deceptively easy, aspect of automotive maintenance that prolongs the life and performance of your car. While there is quite a bit of contradicting debate concerning the frequency of changes, there is no denying that it is a necessary, preventative step.
First: Locate the relevant equipment
The first steps to changing the oil in your car involve locating the oil-access point and the oil filter and obtaining the correct oil amount for your particular car. Make sure to take into account the engine type and size, the model and any extra denotations, such as R/T, GT, LSI or Hemi, as just few of the more common examples. Once this information is assembled, gather an oil filter removal wrench, a plastic tub to catch the old oil and the proper size socket or wrench to open the oil pan.
Second: Locate the filter and oil pan
Next, locate your oil filter and the oil pan, both of which are much easier to find from underneath the vehicle. Position the plastic tub under the pan, in-line with the drain-plug and remove the plug slowly, bracing for splashes and spatters. Allow all of the oil to drain, then remove the filter using the oil filter wrench; oil filters are often removed by hand, although slick oil and grease can make it quite frustrating.
Third: Prepare and install filter, add initial oil and fill to specifications
Finally, make sure there are no remaining pieces of gasket from the previous filter, then smear a small amount of clean oil around the new filter's gasket and install, taking care not to over-tighten. Replace the drain plug and begin filling the oil reservoir with three to four quarts of oil, then fill to the specified level for your particular vehicle. Start your car and let it run for a few minutes to warm and circulate the new oil, then double-check the oil level and add if needed. Make sure you take the old oil to a proper disposal provider or risk hefty fines and even contamination of your own property.