If you want to keep your favourite car engine like new for a long time, you must change the engine oil from time to time. Engine oil decreases wear and tear between two or more parts which are in motion and keeps your engine clean, which increases its lifespan. Changing the engine oil is one of the easiest tasks you can do at home by yourself. In this blog, I will show you how you can change your engine oil in the simplest way, step by step.
So, let’s get started! You’ll be glad you did!
Common Indicators for an Oil Change
First of all, you have to know when you should change the engine oil. For this, there are some common indicators that tell you it’s time for an engine oil change.
- Dark, dirty oil: If you notice that the colour of your engine oil is deep brown or black by checking the oil on the dipstick, it strongly indicates that it’s time for a change.
- Warning lights: Most modern cars have oil change indicators on the dashboard. When the indicator light turns on, it’s a clear signal that you need to change your engine oil.
- There are two more signs that indicate the time. One is reduced fuel efficiency, and the other is engine noise, like knocking, tapping, or rumbling.
Essential Tools for a Hassle-Free Oil Change at Home
Before you begin your work at home, gather all the necessary tools and materials. Having everything with you will make the process smooth.
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New engine oil:
Choose the right type and quantity of oil for your car by checking the owner’s manual. There you will see the recommended grade and how much oil your engine requires.
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Oil filter:
Oil filter is like a Kidney for an engine. It keeps out all the impurities from the engine oil. So, in every replacement of engine oil, you also need to change the oil filter. Just like the oil, the filter type is also specific to your vehicle, so check the manual to find the correct one.
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Oil filter wrench:
This tool is used to improve grip and make it easier to remove the oil filter.
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Wrench set:
We will use it for loosen the drain plug under the oil pan, so that we can easily remove the plug.
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Oil drain pan:
To store the old engine oil you need an oil drain pan. Make sure it’s large enough to hold all the oil from your vehicle.
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Funnel:
Without spilling the new oil everywhere, it helps you pour the new oil.
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Gloves and shop towels:
Gloves protect your hands from dirty and hot oil, and shop towels help clean any drips or spills during the process.
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Car jack and stands:
Jacks and stands lift up your vehicle and increase the ground clearance. By doing this you can easily open the drain plug and oil filter.
Now we will prepare your car for an oil change. First of all, you must ensure safety during the car engine oil change, as it is very important. Park your car on a flat surface, make sure the engine is off, and the parking brake is engaged. Be sure you have all the necessary tools and materials on hand. Allow the engine to cool down to avoid any hazards. Now, using a jack and jack stands, lift your car securely. If you are having trouble finding the proper lifting point, refer to your vehicle’s manual to locate its exact position. Now, find the oil drain plug and position the oil drain pan below it.
Step by Step Guide to changing the engine oil
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Be sure that your car is on a flat surface, the engine is turned off for a minimum of 30 minutes, and you have all the necessary tools ready.
Step 2: Lift the Vehicle
By using jack and stands elevate your car. Be sure you are having enough ground clearance for easy access .
Step 3: Locate the oil Drain Plug
As we discussed earlier, take help from your vehicle manual to locate the Drain Plug. And place a pan beneath it, so that you can store old engine oil.
Step 4: Remove the Drain Plug
Use a socket wrench to loosen the drain plug. Now carefully remove the drain plug. Allow to drain all old oil into the pan. After ensuring there is no more old oil, reinstall the drain plug, and check that it’s securely tightened.
Step 5: Replace the oil Filter
Remove the old oil filter and replace it with a new one, by using an oil filter wrench.
Step 6: Add New oil
Insert a funnel into the oil fill cap and carefully pour in the recommended amount (what is given in your vehicle manual) of new oil.
Step 7: Check the oil level
After pouring the new engine oil, start the engine and let it run for a few minutes, then turn it off. Check the oil level using the dipstick and if it requires more and add necessary.
Step 8: Inspect for leaks
Closely inspect the drain plug and oil filter, and ensure they are properly sealed.
Disposing of Used Engine Oil Safely
To be a gentle car owner, we should dispose of the old used oil. Because this used old engine oil contains some harmful chemical elements. These elements easily seep into the soil and water. For this reason, to protect our surrounding environment, we need to follow given below steps:
- First of all store the used old engine oil in a container. For that you can use that one bottle that you used during the oil change.
- Now find a mechanic’s shop that accepts used oil or a local oil recycling facility. Sometimes they will pay you for the exchange of that used old engine oil.
- Never Dump or Burn used oil, because it affects our environment directly. And be sure you are not mixing it with other liquids.
Final Thought
Doing this type of small maintenance at home is not only a cost effective task but also a great way to keep your vehicle running smoothly for years. By doing these small and easy things you can save both time and money. And this type of small maintenance ensures your vehicle’s long life and gives you a smooth service. From this basic maintenance task, you will gain valuable knowledge about your vehicle’s condition. Which will help you to spot potential issues early by yourself. With this guide, you now have the confidence to perform your next oil change at home and enjoy the satisfaction of maintaining your car yourself!
