Changing oil is a major key to the life of your automobile. Miles driven determine the frequency of oil changes, typically between 3,000 and 7,500 miles. Not changing the oil can cause mechanical failure. If you change your own oil, the following instructions can help.
Get Your Car Ready
Changing the oil works best on a warm engine. Only begin the process once you confirm your car is on a level surface. If you're using a jack, check that it can handle the weight of the car before proceeding.
Draining Old Oil
Open up the hood and secure it. Then remove the cap from your oil tank. It is important that you place a drain pan under the oil tank that is big enough to hold the oil you have to drain. Next you need to pull the plug, which is on the underside of the oil tank. This allows the old oil to collect in the pan.
Taking out the Filter
The oil filter should be changed along with the oil. It is located near the oil pan but typically can only be reached from beneath the engine compartment. You must wait for the oil to drain before trying to remove the filter. The step should be simple, however, on rare occasions the filter may prove too corroded to take off manually. A visit to an auto parts store can solve this dilemma with a cheap oil filter wrench specifically designed to remove stubborn oil filters. After removal, quickly place the used filter inside the box the new one came in and dispose of it properly.
Replace the Oil Pan Plug
Use paper towels to clean the drain plug prior to putting it back. Be sure you take off the drain plug washer and replace it with a new one. Put the plug back on and tighten it securely before moving on.
Filter Installation
Using a rag, wipe the entire plate where the filter will be placed. Spread a bit of oil on the top and bottom of the new oil filter. Then place the oil filter on the plate, screwing it in by hand. Read the product information included with the new filter in case a manufacturer recommends any special steps you may need to follow to complete a proper filter install. To avoid a leak, do not tighten the filter back on with anything except your own strength.
Oil Refill
Check with a mechanic if you aren’t sure how many quarts of oil your car needs. Proceed to pour in new oil as instructed. Secure the cap of the tank, remove the pan of oil, pull out the jack and bring the car to ground level. Before driving, crank the car for several minutes inspecting the drain plug for any visible leaks. Then turn off the car for ten minutes and use the dipstick to complete an oil level check. If it shows an appropriate level of oil, you have completed the oil change on your vehicle.
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