How to do an Oil Change! (in any car)

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of performing an oil change on nearly any car. Regular oil changes are essential for maintaining engine health and ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly. Follow these steps to complete the task safely and efficiently.

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

• Gather the necessary tools and materials:
  • Jack and jack stands
  • Oil catch pan
  • New oil filter
  • New engine oil (check your car's specifications)
  • Wrench set
  • Gloves
  • Rags or paper towels
• Park your car on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.

Step 2: Lift the Car

• Use the jack to lift the car:
  • Slide the jack under the front cross member.
  • Pump the jack until the car is at a comfortable height.
• Secure the car with jack stands:
  • Place the jack stands under the frame.
  • Lower the car onto the jack stands carefully.

Step 3: Access the Oil Drain Plug

• Open the hood and locate your oil filler cap:
  • Crack it loose to allow oil to drain more smoothly.
• Identify the engine oil drain plug:
  • Imagine a line from the top of the engine to the bottom; the drain plug will be along that line.

Step 4: Drain the Old Oil

• Use a wrench to crack the drain plug loose:
  • Be cautious as some oil may spill out when you begin to unscrew it.
• Remove the plug by hand and let the old oil drain into the catch pan.
• Replace the old crush washer on the drain plug with a new one.
• Hand thread the drain plug back in and gently snug it up.

Step 5: Replace the Oil Filter

• Locate the oil filter, which typically looks like a small canister.
• Unscrew the old oil filter by hand:
  • Some oil may spill, so be prepared with a rag or paper towel.
• Take the new oil filter and lubricate the rubber seal with a little bit of new engine oil.
• Screw the new filter on by hand and snug it up.

Step 6: Add New Oil

• Lower the car back down from the jack stands.
• Open the hood and grab your new engine oil.
• Pour the oil into the engine through the oil filler cap:
  • Add oil until you are close to the manufacturer’s specified amount.
• Use the dipstick to check the oil level:
  • Pull it out, wipe it clean, reinsert it, then check if the oil is within the correct range.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You've successfully completed an oil change on your car. Regularly check your oil level and plan to change your oil as recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer. Keeping up with oil changes can significantly improve your engine's performance and longevity.