How to change your car’s oil at home: A simple, cost-effective guide

Performing an oil change at home is a simple yet essential maintenance task that can save you money and keep your car running smoothly – and it’s not as hard as you think. If you’ve ever wondered how to change your own vehicle’s oil, this guide will walk you through the process, the necessary tools and how to make the job easy and cost-effective.

Before getting started, gather the right tools and materials that you’ll need. These include:

• A wrench or socket set
• Jack and jack stands (or ramps)
• An oil filter wrench
• A drain pan
• Oil filter (ensure it’s compatible with your vehicle).
• New engine oil (check your owner’s manual for the correct type and quantity).
• A funnel
• Gloves
• A rag or paper towels

Step 1: Prepare your car for the oil change

• Park on a level surface – Engage the parking brake for safety.
• Let the engine cool – If you’ve recently driven the car, wait at least 15 minutes to avoid burns from hot oil.
• Lift the car – Use a jack and secure it with jack stands, or drive onto ramps for better access.

Step 2: Drain the old oil

• Locate the oil drain plug under the engine. Position the oil drain pan beneath it.
• Loosen the plug using a socket wrench and allow the oil to drain completely – this might take a few minutes.
• Replace the drain plug securely once you’ve drained all the oil.

Step 3: Change the oil filter

• Locate the oil filter (it’s usually near the engine block).
• Use an oil filter wrench to remove it, turning counterclockwise.
• Apply a thin layer of new oil to the rubber gasket on the new filter to create a proper seal.
• Install the new filter by hand-tightening it, then give it a slight turn with the wrench.

Step 4: Add fresh oil

• Remove the oil cap on top of the engine.
• Use a funnel to pour in the recommended amount of new engine oil.
• Check the oil level using the dipstick, ensuring it’s within the correct range.

Step 5: Final checks and cleanup

• Start the engine and let it run for a minute to circulate the new oil.
• Check for leaks around the drain plug and oil filter.
• Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes, then recheck the oil level.
• Dispose of old oil responsibly – Take it to a recycling centre or auto shop.

Tips to make your oil change easy and cost-effective

• Buy oil and filters in bulk to save money on future changes.
• Use high-quality synthetic oil for longer-lasting performance.
• Keep a record of each oil change to track maintenance.
• Wear gloves to minimise mess and make cleanup easier.

Safety comes first, always

While performing an oil change at home might seem simple – especially if you follow the above step-by-step guide – it’s important to always practise safety first. If this means you are more comfortable calling in the professionals to do your oil change, then save the hard work for the experts and give yourself a breather.

Sources:

https://www.tyreplus.com.au/faq/how-to-change-oil-at-home

_Disclaimer
^{Viva Energy Australia Pty Ltd (“Viva Energy”) has compiled the above article for your general information and to use as a general reference. Whilst all reasonable care has been taken by Viva Energy in compiling this article, Viva Energy does not warrant or represent that the information in the article is free from errors or omissions or is suitable for your intended use.}