- Oil drain pan
- Wrench
- New oil filter (if changing)
- Funnel
- Replacement motor oil (check your owner's manual for the correct type and amount)
- Oil filter wrench (if changing)
- Rags
- Safety goggles
2. Prepare the vehicle:
- Park your vehicle on a level surface and allow the engine to cool.
- Engage the parking brake and chock the wheels.
- If possible, raise the vehicle with a jack and jack stands or ramps to access the oil drain plug more easily.
- Consult your owner's manual for the recommended method for raising your specific vehicle.
3. Locate the oil drain plug:
- The oil drain plug is typically located on the bottom of the oil pan.
- It may be a 17mm bolt or a square-headed plug.
4. Place the oil drain pan underneath:
- Position the oil drain pan directly beneath the oil drain plug to catch the draining oil.
- Make sure the pan can hold the full capacity of the engine oil.
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.
- Allow the oil to completely drain into the pan.
- This may take several minutes.
6. Replace the oil drain plug:
- Once the oil has stopped dripping, replace the oil drain plug.
- Tighten the plug until it is snug, but do not over-tighten as this can damage the threads.
7. Locate the oil filter:
- The oil filter is usually cylindrical in shape and is located near the top of the engine.
8. Remove the oil filter:
- Use the oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the oil filter.
- Be careful not to spill any oil.
- Discard the old oil filter properly.
9. Apply a thin coat of new oil to the gasket of the new oil filter:
- This will help create a seal and prevent leaks.
10. Screw on the new oil filter:
- Hand-tighten the oil filter until it is snug.
- Do not over-tighten as this can damage the oil filter gasket.
11. Add new oil to the engine:
- Use the funnel to add the recommended amount of new motor oil to the engine.
- Check the oil level using the dipstick and add more oil if necessary.
12. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes:
- This will circulate the new oil throughout the engine.
13. Recheck the oil level:
- Use the dipstick to check the oil level again and add more oil if necessary.
14. Dispose of the old oil and filter properly.
- Both are hazardous waste and should not be disposed of in regular trash.
- Check with your local auto parts store or recycling center for proper disposal methods.
