Changing the Oil in Your Car

Even though we have all of these drive-thru oil change service stations, one of the things that everyone should know how to do is change their own oil. It gets you in touch with your vehicle, it gives you a sense of accomplishment and you may have spent up to an hour doing it, but you might end up with 50 extra dollars in your pocket (although I know a place that only charges women $17.99 to women on Wednesdays). So, first you’ll need a few supplies: an oil pan, an oil filter wrench and a ratchet set. You may want to see if you fit under your car; since most of us can’t, it’s a good idea to invest in some jack stands as well. Now it’s time to get to the oil change. Have the guy at the auto parts store look up your make and model to find your oil filter. You will also need five quarts of oil (synthetic is recommended). You’re now ready to head home and get started. Park your car on a flat surface; put the parking brake on; raise it up; secure the car on jack stands. Remove the oil cap from the top of the engine, as it helps for the oil to flow out through the bottom. Then, under the car, remove the drain plug with the correct ratchet from your set and let the old oil flow into your oil pan. Locate the filter and remove it using your filter wrench (once the oil is done draining, of course). To prepare your new oil filter, you need to dip your finger in the oil and rub it around the opening of the filter. This helps it to settle in properly. Once you have installed the new filter, you are almost ready to put the new oil in. Then replace the drain plug. Moving to the top of the engine, pour oil in one quart at a time. Once you have done about four quarts, wait a minute or two and then check the oil using the dipstick. If it’s not quite at the top dot, add the last quart. Then check it again! After about 10 minutes, check again. Any extra oil will burn off quickly, but you want to make sure you at least have enough. That’s it! Other than taking your used oil to the auto parts store to properly dispose of it (NOT DUMPING IT ANYWHERE) you should congratulate yourself  – you have just changed your own oil! Ah what a feeling…