Most quick oil change shops can complete an oil change in under 30 minutes, while a dealership or independent mechanic may take longer.
If you are changing the oil yourself, it will likely take longer, but you can save money by doing it yourself.
Here are the steps involved in an oil change, which contribute to the time it takes:
1. Gather your materials. You will need:
* New oil filter (check your owner's manual for the correct size)
* New oil (check your owner's manual for the correct type and amount)
* Oil drain pan
* Funnel
* Wrench
* Rags
2. Prepare your car. Park your car on a level surface and turn off the engine. Engage the parking brake. If you can't crawl under your car, you will need to raise it with a jack and jack stands.
3. Locate the oil drain plug. The oil drain plug is usually located on the bottom of the oil pan. It is typically a 17mm bolt.
4. Place the oil drain pan under the oil drain plug. Make sure that the pan is large enough to catch all of the oil that will drain out.
5. Loosen the oil drain plug. Use the wrench to loosen the oil drain plug. Be careful not to drop the bolt into the oil pan.
6. Allow the oil to drain. Allow all of the oil to drain out of the oil pan. This may take a few minutes.
7. Replace the oil drain plug. Once all of the oil has drained out, replace the oil drain plug. Tighten the plug until it is snug.
8. Locate the oil filter. The oil filter is usually located near the top of the engine. It is a cylindrical-shaped object with a black cap.
9. Remove the oil filter. Use the wrench to loosen the oil filter. Be careful not to spill any oil.
10. Apply a thin coat of new oil to the gasket of the new oil filter. This will help to create a seal and prevent leaks.
11. Screw on the new oil filter. Hand-tighten the oil filter until it is snug. Do not over-tighten the oil filter.
12. Add new oil to the engine. Use the funnel to add new oil to the engine. Add the amount of oil specified in your owner's manual.
13. Check the oil level. Use the dipstick to check the oil level. The oil level should be between the "full" and "add" marks on the dipstick.
14. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. This will circulate the new oil throughout the engine.
15. Check for leaks. Look under the car for any leaks. If you see any leaks, tighten the oil drain plug or oil filter until the leak stops.
By following these steps, you can safely and easily change the oil in your vehicle.
