Using ramps:
Tools and materials needed:
- A pair of ramps
- Chocks
- Car jack (optional, only needed if the ramps are too low)
1. Park the car on a level surface: Engage the parking brake and turn off the engine. Make sure the car is in Park (for automatic transmissions) or in first gear (for manual transmissions).
2. Place the chocks behind the rear wheels: This is an extra safety precaution to prevent the car from rolling while you're working underneath it.
3. Drive the car onto the ramps: Slowly and carefully drive the front wheels of the car onto the ramps. Make sure the wheels are centered on the ramps and not hanging off the sides.
4. Use a car jack if necessary: If the ramps are too low and the car doesn't have enough ground clearance, you can use a car jack to slightly lift the front of the car. Place the jack under the front of the car, near the subframe, and raise it just enough so that the car is level and has enough clearance for you to work underneath.
5. Chock the front wheels: Once the car is lifted, place chocks in front of the front wheels to prevent the car from rolling backward off the ramps.
Using a car lift:
1. Park the car on a level surface: Ensure that the parking brake is engaged and the car is turned off.
2. Position the car lift underneath the car: Make sure the lift is centered under the car and that the lift pads are positioned correctly under the lifting points of the car.
3. Engage the parking brake and turn off the engine: This is an extra safety precaution to prevent the car from moving while it is being lifted.
4. Operate the car lift to raise the car: Slowly and carefully operate the car lift to raise the car until it is at a comfortable working height. Ensure the vehicle is stable and secure before proceeding.
5. Place wheel chocks around the wheels: This is an extra safety measure to prevent the car from rolling while you are working underneath it.
Now that the vehicle is safely elevated, you can proceed with your oil change. Ensure you follow the recommended steps and use the appropriate tools and materials. Once the oil change is complete, carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground and remove the wheel chocks.
