How to Change Oil in a Vehicle

Hello, my name’s Jeffery Busche

Changing oil is an easy service job you can do at home. I’ve changed oil for 5 years and have saved money by doing so. But for someone who doesn’t know how to change their oil and wants to save money while also wanting to learn how to, there are only a few short and easy steps to change oil in your vehicle from home. Today, I’m going to show you how to change the oil in your vehicle in just a few easy steps that will save you money and give you some mechanical experience.

Supplies

jack

jack stand

oil pan

oil

oil filter

ratchet

oil filter remover

Step 1: Get a Jack and Jack Stands or Use Hydraulic Hoist

First, look in the vehicle service manual and find the jack point to jack the vehicle up. If there is an available hoist, that is another method of raising the vehicle.

Step 2: Place Jack Stands Under Vehicle and Raise Stand on Metal Frame

Place the jack stand on the metal frame towards the front of the vehicle. These spots on the vehicle are one of the only spots that can be placed on the jack stand. Also, make sure the points that are placed are the same for both sides to prevent the vehicle from slipping off the stands. Next, raise the vehicle with a hoist or lift with jack and place jack stands on metal frame.

Step 3: Locate the Oil Plug and Filter

In most vehicles, the oil plug and filter are located towards the front of the vehicle, with the filter located above the oil housing case.

Step 4: Get Correct Oil, Oil Filter, and Wrench With Correct Socket

The owner's manual on the vehicle explains what kind of oil and oil filter are used. Using the correct oil and filter is crucial as using the wrong type of oil or filter can result in damage to the engine or oil leaks. Next, get a wrench and find the correct socket that will fit on the oil plug.

Step 5: Get an Oil Pan and Place Under Plug

Next, find an oil pan and place it under the oil plug as to prevent a mess.

Step 6: Remove the Oil Plug

After the oil pan has been placed under the plug, remove it with a wrench. Next, slowly unscrew the plug until oil can be seen dripping. Then, unscrew the plug completely and let all the oil drain out of the housing.

Step 7: Screw the Plug Back In

After all of the oil has been drained from the plug, install the plug back in.

Step 8: Remove the Oil Filter

Next, get an oil filter remover. Loosen the filter until it can be loosened by hand. Oil will start to drip when the filter has been loosened enough, Let the oil drain and then completely remove the filter.

Step 9: Inspect Old Oil Filter

Next, inspect the oil filter. The main purpose is to make sure that the rubber ring around the filter is still on the old filter. If the rubber ring was not around the old filter and the new one was installed, it will cause oil to leak.

Step 10: Run Finger Around Rubber Ring on New Filter

With the new oil filter, place a drop of oil on a finger and go around the rubber ring. Failure to do so could result in a damaged oil filter in a short amount of time.

Step 11: Install New Filter

After the rubber ring has been oiled, screw the new filter on and tighten until it is securely seated.

Step 12: Open the Hood and Locate Oil Cap

After double checking to make sure the plug and filter are securely tightened, lower the vehicle to the ground and open the hood and locate the oil cap where new oil can be added.

Step 13: Grab a Funnel and Fill With Oil

After the cap has been found, remove it and place a funnel in it. Grab the new oil and fill to manufacturer's specifications. Then, check the level of the oil with the dipstick, which can be found next to the oil cap. Grab a rag and wipe the oil off the dipstick. Place it back in and take it out to determine if the level is acceptable.

Step 14: Start the Vehicle and Check for Leaks

After filling the pan with oil, start the engine and allow it to idle for a few minutes. Look under the vehicle and around the oil filter for leaks.