Changing your own engine oil keeps your car running smoothly and can save money over a shop visit. With a few basic tools and the right oil and filter for your vehicle, it is a manageable job for most people willing to get their hands dirty.
What you'll need
- New oil of the correct grade
- New oil filter
- Oil filter wrench
- Socket wrench
- Drain pan
- Funnel
- Gloves
- Jack and jack stands or ramps
- Rags
Step by step
- Warm the engine and park safelyRun the engine for a few minutes so the oil flows freely, then turn it off. Park on level ground, set the parking brake, and raise the front with ramps or a jack and stands.
- Position the drain panSlide under the car and place the drain pan beneath the oil pan's drain plug, which is a bolt at the lowest point of the engine's oil pan.
- Drain the old oilLoosen the drain plug with a socket wrench, then unscrew it by hand and let the oil pour out fully. Wipe the plug and reinstall it snugly once the flow slows to drips.
- Replace the oil filterUse the filter wrench to remove the old filter, which will still hold oil. Smear a little fresh oil on the new filter's rubber seal, then hand-tighten it into place.
- Add the new oilLower the car, open the hood, remove the oil cap, and pour in the amount and grade listed in your owner's manual using a funnel.
- Check the level and for leaksRun the engine briefly, turn it off, wait a minute, then check the dipstick and top up if needed. Look under the car for any drips.
- Dispose of the old oilPour the used oil into a sealable container and take it, along with the old filter, to an auto parts store or recycling center that accepts them.
Handy tips
- Check your owner's manual for the exact oil grade, capacity, and filter part number before you start.
- Do not overtighten the drain plug or filter; snug is enough and overtightening can strip threads or crush the seal.
- Lay cardboard under the work area to catch spills and make cleanup easier.
Heads up
- Never work under a car supported only by a jack. Always use jack stands or ramps rated for the vehicle's weight.
- Hot oil and engine parts can cause burns. Let the engine cool enough to touch before draining.
- Used motor oil is toxic and must be recycled, never poured down a drain or onto the ground.
FAQ
How often should I change my oil?
Follow your owner's manual. Many modern cars go 5,000 to 10,000 miles between changes, but older cars or severe driving conditions may need it sooner.
What kind of oil should I use?
Use the viscosity grade and type, conventional or synthetic, specified in your owner's manual. Using the wrong grade can affect performance and engine protection.
Can I reuse the old oil filter?
No. Always fit a new filter with each oil change. A used filter is clogged with contaminants and will not clean the fresh oil properly.