How to Change Your Oil Like a Pro

Changing your oil is a process that requires few tools, and for some, it’s a right of passage. More than anything, the basic oil change is a great way to connect with your vehicle and take some control over its maintenance.

Materials Needed

You will need the following tools and materials:

• Wrench

• Oil drain pan

• Funnel

• Latex gloves

• Oil

• Oil filter

To change your oil, follow these steps or click here to watch a video:

Step One: Check The Type and Amount of Oil Needed

Before heading to the store to buy supplies, consult your owner's manual to confirm the type and amount of oil that's required for your vehicle.

Step Two: Prepare Your Vehicle

Your engine and its oil should be warm when you get started, but not hot. Some newer cars have aerodynamic covers to improve fuel economy and keep things clean. If necessary, consult your owner’s manual to learn how to take off your vehicle’s undercover.

Step Three: Locate the Oil Filter and Drain Plug

The vast majority of cars have a bottom-mount screw-on filter, in which case the drain plug and oil filter are far apart from each other. This means you must reposition the drain pan after you drain the oil and before you remove the filter. For this reason, you need to completely finish draining and re-plugging the engine before working on the filter.

Step Four: Drain the Oil

To drain your vehicle’s oil, place the drain pan under the drain plug — but not directly under it. The angle of the drain plug will cause the oil to stream out at an angle, so offset the pan to that side by several inches. Once oil has drained, remove the oil filler cap. To dispose of oil, do not throw away or pour down a sink. Instead, take it to a service shop where they can properly get rid of it.

Step Five: Remove and Tighten Drain Plug

Use a wrench to remove the drain plug. Work slowly and keep your hands away from the expected path of the oil; it will come out quick and warm.

Inspect and clean the oil drain plug while the rest of the oil is draining. Once done, tighten the drain plug with the box end of a wrench.

Step Six: Change the Oil Filter

This is the messiest stage, so have rags handy and reposition the drain pan before you start. Remove the filter and hold over the pan to drain it.

To install the new filter, take your gloves off to get a good grip. Before tightening the filter into place, consult your manual or the oil filter box to confirm how many times you should twist it.

Step Seven: Add the New Oil

After you confirm that the filter is properly in place, it's time to add oil. Add approximately one quart less than the recommended amount, just to be safe. After you add the oil, replace the oil cap and start the engine. Run the engine for 30 seconds to circulate the new oil, then turn it off and check underneath your car for leaks.

Why Choose LeSueur Car Company

If changing your own oil seems like too much trouble, click here to schedule an oil change with the LeSueur Car Company service team!