Will an Oil Extractor Get All The Oil? (MK7.5 Golf R 5000 Mile Service)

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through performing an oil change on a MK7.5 Golf R using an oil extractor. We will compare the amount of oil extracted with this method versus using the traditional drain plug method. This process is crucial for maintaining your vehicle, especially after the first 5,000 miles of service.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials

Before you start, make sure you have the following items ready:

• Oil extractor
• OEM oil filter
• Engine oil (5W-30 or 0W-30)
• Coolant (if needed)
• Funnel
• Gloves
• Oil mats (to catch spills)
• Basic hand tools (sockets, screwdrivers, etc.)
• Shop towels

Practical Tips

• Use an oil extractor designed for easy oil removal.
• Warm up the engine before starting the oil change to ensure better oil flow.

Step 2: Change the Oil Filter

1. Remove the Engine Cover: Take off any covers obstructing access to the oil filter.
2. Loosen the Oil Filter: Use a 32mm socket (or 1¼ inch) and slowly loosen the filter. Avoid using power tools to prevent spills.
3. Remove the Filter: Use shop rags to catch any oil that spills as you remove the filter.
4. Install New Filter:
   • Replace the old filter with a new OEM filter.
   • Lubricate the new O-ring with a bit of engine oil to ensure a proper seal.
   • Tighten the filter by hand, following the manufacturer's torque specifications (usually around 25 Nm).

Step 3: Extract the Oil

1. Prepare for Extraction: Remove the dipstick and clean it off.
2. Insert the Extraction Hose:
   • Choose the smallest hose from your extractor kit.
   • Insert the hose into the dipstick tube until it reaches the bottom.
3. Connect the Extractor:
   • Attach the other end of the hose to the oil extractor pump.
   • Lock it in place and start pumping to extract the oil.
4. Monitor the Extraction:
   • Periodically check if the hose is still pulling oil and adjust if necessary.
   • Continue until no more oil is being extracted.

Common Pitfalls

• Not having a warm engine, which can slow down the extraction process.
• Inserting the hose incorrectly, which may lead to incomplete extraction.

Step 4: Check for Residual Oil

1. Lift the Vehicle: Safely raise the car to access the drain plug.
2. Remove the Drain Plug: Use a flathead screwdriver to turn the drain plug and let any remaining oil drain into a container.
3. Measure Remaining Oil: After draining, check the amount of oil collected. You may find approximately 100ml left in the pan after using the extractor.

Real-World Application

• Understanding how much oil remains after using an extractor can help you decide whether to use the extractor in future oil changes.

Step 5: Add New Oil

1. Fill the Engine Oil: Use a funnel to pour new engine oil into the fill hole. Start with 5.5 quarts (about 5.2 liters).
2. Check Oil Level: After adding oil, wait a moment, then check the dipstick to ensure the oil level is between the hash marks.
3. Topping Off: If necessary, add more oil until you reach the desired level.

Practical Tips

• Always underfill slightly and check the level before adding more oil.
• Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface when checking oil levels.

Step 6: Final Checks

1. Check Fluid Levels: Inspect coolant and top off any necessary fluids.
2. Rotate Tires: Rotate the tires from front to back and check tire pressures.
3. Replace Engine Cover: Make sure to reattach any engine covers removed during the process.

Conclusion

You have now successfully completed an oil change on your MK7.5 Golf R using an oil extractor. This method not only simplifies the process but also allows you to perform maintenance without the need to get under the vehicle. Next time, remember to consider the amount of oil left behind and whether you’re comfortable leaving that in the engine. Regular maintenance will keep your Golf R running smoothly for many miles ahead.