Tips for Buying a Car

Tips On Changing The Oil Of Your Car

If you have a bit of time on your hands and would like to save some money, you can change the oil of your car, on your own. It's not too difficult, and even if this task may vary from a car to another, there are a few rules of thumb when it comes to it.

First of all, you will need about the same tools and materials, which should be about the same, no matter what car you drive. So, ready-up a wrench for the drain plug, an oil drain pan, funnel, an oil filter wrench, jack stands and a jack, the oil, an oil filter, and a replacement drain plug washer. Also, don't forget the latex gloves.

Now, before proceeding to action, you have to make sure you're using the required oil. So, if you haven't done it before, check the manual to know exactly what type of oil and what quantity is required. Also, you should know that to change the oil, the engine and the oil have to be warm, so leave the engine running for a little while before getting started.

Use the jack to lift up the car, install the safety stands and remove the undercover, if your car is equipped with such an accessory. This usually covers everything under the car to keep the underneath exterior parts clean, and to give the car better aerodynamics.

Next, locate the drain plug and the oil filter, but before, removing the oil drain plug, make sure to place the drain pan under it, in the direction where the oil will pour out. Also before removing the oil drain plug, remove the cap of the oil filler under the hood. This will create extra air pressure and the oil will drain more quickly and smoothly. It also serves as a reminder that you actually have to put oil in before starting the engine (some of us may forget this, after all the struggle with the stuff under the car).

Use the wrench to open the drain plug and wait for the oil to drain in the drain pan. Clean the oil drain plug if you're at it an make sure it's in good condition. Replace the drain plug washer if needed. Once the oil is completely drained, screw the drain plug back in its place, making sure you tighten it enough.

The next step is to remove the oil filter. If it's too far apart from the oil drain, don't forget to relocate the drain pan. Fix the oil filter wrench on the oil filter, and gently unscrew the filter. Once the filter is loose, it's kind of difficult to avoid making a mess, however just try not to make too much. Use some cloth rags to clean as much oil as possible from the filter sealing surface, and make sure the old filter O-ring doesn't stick to it.

Install the new filter, but make sure you apply a bit of new oil on the O-ring of the new filter. Tighten the new filter in place.

Double check if the oil drain plug and filter are secured in place.

Use a funnel to add the new oil into the tank, making sure it's the required amount. Put the oil cap back in its place and start the engine, running it for a minute. Check under the car for leaks. If everything works, bring the car down and remove the safety stands.