First Oil Change: The Ultimate Oil Change Tutorial for Young Adults Looking to Do-it-Yourself
Prepare Your Vehicle: Find a flat spot to park your car. Pull the handbrake up and turn off the engine. If you need to lift your car, use ramps or jack stands. But remember, never go under the car if it's only supported by a jack. You can use wheel chocks to stop it from moving accidentally.
Pop the Hood: Open the hood of your car to access the engine.
Locate the Oil Dipstick: Find the engine oil dipstick and remove it to facilitate oil drainage. Look for a long stick with a loop or handle near the engine. Pull it out gently; this helps drain the oil.
Secure the Vehicle: Ensure the vehicle is properly secured. Make sure the car won't move unexpectedly. It's a good idea to wear safety glasses if you have them. Get underneath the car to find the oil pan. If you're not sure where it is, check your owner's manual.
Find the Oil Drain Plug: Identify the oil drain plug, typically a long bolt head located at the bottom of the oil pan. Some vehicles may have two drain plugs.
Prepare the Catch Pan: Place a container under the oil catch pan and drain plug to collect the oil. Ensure the container is large enough to hold the oil capacity specified in your owner's manual.
Remove the Drain Plug: Use a wrench or a socket to unscrew the drain plug carefully. Let all the oil drain out completely.
Clean and Replace the Drain Plug: Wipe down the drain plug and oil pan threads with a rag. Put the drain plug back in and make sure it's tight. Again, your owner's manual can tell you how tight it needs to be.
Locate the Oil Filter: Identify the oil filter on your car. Find a cylinder-shaped object attached to the engine. That's your oil filter. If you're not sure which one it is, check your owner's manual.
Prepare to Remove the Oil Filter: Position the oil catch pan under the oil filter to catch any remaining oil. Move your container under the oil filter. It might still have some oil left in it.
Loosen the Oil Filter: Use an oil filter wrench to loosen the oil filter cap. Allow the oil to drain from the filter.
Remove the Oil Filter: Take the old filter off, making sure the rubber ring comes with it. Clean any leftover oil from where the filter was.
Prepare the New Oil Filter: Apply a light coat of new oil around the rubber ring of the new oil filter. Screw the new filter in place. Check your owner's manual to see how tight it should be.
Add New Oil: Take the cap off the place where you pour in the oil. Use a funnel to pour in the right amount of new oil. Your owner's manual can tell you how much and what kind to use.
Replace the Oil Fill Cap: Securely replace the oil fill cap, ensuring it is properly tightened.
Changing your car's engine oil is a crucial maintenance task that helps keep your vehicle running smoothly. Following these steps ensures you do it safely and effectively. Always consult your owner's manual for specific instructions and recommendations.
