If there’s one car maintenance task that always seems to pop up when you least would like it to, it’s an oil change. You get one and think 3,000 to 4,000 miles is plenty, and before you know it you’re already 500 over that. It doesn’t help that oil changes can be kind of expensive when you’re doing them frequently. While we wouldn’t recommend anyone try to change their oil, it is doable by yourself for a fraction of the price most Aurora Body shops will charge. Here’s our DIY guide to changing your oil.
Oil Change
You will need:
- A new oil filter
- Oil.
- Oil filter wrench.
- Socket wrench set.
- Something to catch the old oil.
- A funnel.
- Some old rags
- A car ramp.
- Warm up your car. This will ensure all the oil will be removed. Don’t overdo it, just turn your car on for about 5 to 10 minutes then shut it off and get to work.
- Find a nice flat surface and hoist your car on the ramp. This will allow you to get right under the front of the car when you need to. Make sure your parking break is on to avoid any accidents.
- Locate the oil plug beneath your car and remove it. You can do this with the socket wrench. Don’t unscrew it completely, just enough so that you are able to turn it with your fingers when you need to, otherwise all the oil will fall out.
- Let the oil drain. You will do this by putting whatever you brought to catch the old oil, whether it is a pan or bucket, and unscrewing the oil plug. Let it drain completely, this usually takes anywhere from 2 to 4 minutes.
- Remove the oil filter. The filter will be located somewhere on your engine, and it can vary from model to model. Just make sure that when you find it, you keep your oil catcher beneath it as well, as some oil will likely fall out when you unscrew it. Make sure the rubber gasket comes off with it.
- Install the new oil filter. Rub some new oil on the new filter’s gasket ring to make it stick to the engine better. Then just simply screw it on. Make sure it’s nice and tight.
- Replace the oil plug. You can skip this step if the sealer washer is made of metal and in good condition, otherwise replacing it can just be helpful.
- Refill the engine with oil. Place your funnel in the oil filler hole usually located on top of your engine, and fill her up. Generally, 4 to 5 quarts should do the trick. Make sure to screw on the oil cap when you’re done and close the hood.
- Let the car run. Do so for about five minutes. This will let your engine acclimate to the new oil, while also revealing if you have any leaks that need your attention.
- Dispose of the old oil. Just merely throwing it out in the trash or the sewer is not only polluting, it’s illegal and can result in a fine. Put the old oil in some sort of container like an old milk jug, and drive it over to the nearest gas station or quick lube and they will accept it for free to dispose of themselves. You’re done!
How To Use This Information
While we don’t recommend changing your oil yourself (as carelessly doing so can result in some pretty series damages to your vehicle) if you feel comfortable enough to try it can save you a good portion of what it typically costs to change your oil. There’s a little more that goes into it, and we would be more than happy to fill in the blanks to make sure that you are changing your vehicle’s oil as safely and accurately as possible. If you have any questions or have a more substantial problem, call Accurate Auto Body at 303-344-2212 or visit our website.
Do you change your own oil?
