Tired of the cost of regular oil changes? Well, this is actually a rather easy do-it-yourself project if you are properly prepared and have the correct equipment and tools for the job. Here is a breakdown of what you need to do to change your own oil.
1 – Oil And Filter
You can buy these two items at any auto parts store and already save a good portion of what you would otherwise pay to have a garage change your oil. Just be sure to buy good quality products. One way to be sure you have the correct parts for your vehicle is to refer to the owner’s manual that came with your car. It will tell you what type of motor oil is recommended for your vehicle.
As for the oil filter, you have to match this with what your owner’s manual suggests as well. For example, if your car is a newer model that can withstand longer oil change intervals – every 10,000 kilometres rather than every 5,000 kilometres – the oil filter choice is critical. You must use an oil filter that is rated to last that long or longer.
2 – The Process
Before you start, make sure you have the tools you need within grabbing distance. Spread a plastic sheet on the flat surface you intend to use for the oil change. Roll your vehicle onto it and jack it up so you can get underneath.
Your tool list includes:
A drain pan or bucket Oil Oil filter Filter wrench Rubber mallet Box-end wrench
To change the oil in your vehicle, you must first remove the oil that is currently in the engine. You do this by quickly removing the plug underneath your vehicle and allowing gravity to empty the oil from the engine into a collection bucket. While the oil drains, clean the plug. Be sure to not accidentally put your face underneath the drain, trust me, it will not taste good and if it goes near your eyes, walk blindly to the nearest sink for a wash before opening them.
Remove the old oil filter and replace with the new one. As soon as the old draining oil reaches a small trickle, install a new gasket on the plug (if it is required), install the plug where you first removed it and tighten it with the box-end wrench and rubber mallet.
Get out from under the car as that part of the job is done. Refill the oil reservoir with the amount of oil recommended by your owner’s manual. Replace the cap you removed to add the oil. Start the engine to get the oil moving around inside the engine. Your oil change is complete.
If you prepared your work area properly, you should be able to service your vehicle with an oil change in about 20-minutes. You will have to dispose of the used oil safely at a local landfill site or oil collection facility. Otherwise, you can do this job anytime it is required.
For More Handy Household Hints, Call Me
I’m Jen Bedard. I call Niagara home and I can assist you in finding the perfect home for you and your family, with the perfect garage so you can change your own oil. All you have to do is call me today and we’ll get started.