How to Change Car Oil

Step-by-step guide on how to change your car oil. Learn how to drain old oil, replace the filter, and refill with fresh oil safely at home.

Automotive

Tools Required (9)

Materials Needed (4)

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1.Park the vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine.
2.Engage the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind the rear tires.
3.Lift the front of the vehicle using a floor jack and secure it firmly on jack stands.
4.Locate the oil drain plug and place the drain pan directly underneath it.
5.Remove the oil drain plug using a socket wrench and allow the old oil to drain completely into the pan.
6.Replace the drain plug gasket and reinstall the plug, tightening it to the manufacturer's specified torque.
7.Move the drain pan under the oil filter and remove the old filter using an oil filter wrench.
8.Apply a thin film of fresh oil to the rubber gasket of the new oil filter.
9.Screw the new oil filter on by hand until it is snug, then tighten it slightly more as specified by the filter manufacturer.
10.Open the hood and remove the oil fill cap on the engine.
11.Insert a funnel into the fill port and pour in the required amount of new motor oil.
12.Replace the oil fill cap and start the engine to circulate the oil for a few minutes.
13.Turn off the engine, check the oil level using the dipstick, and inspect for any leaks under the vehicle.
14.Lower the vehicle from the jack stands and dispose of the used oil and filter at a certified recycling center.