DIY Oil Change: Save Money and Time

Can You Really Change Your Own Car Oil?

For many car owners, the thought of changing their vehicle's oil conjures images of greasy hands and complicated procedures, leading them straight to the mechanic. However, this fundamental aspect of car maintenance is surprisingly accessible, and with a little guidance, you can master it yourself. Regularly changing your engine oil is crucial for keeping your engine running smoothly and prolonging its lifespan. So, why not take control and learn how to perform this vital task at home? It’s one of the most straightforward automotive jobs you can undertake, requiring only a few essential tools, many of which are readily available from suppliers like Advance Auto Parts.

Advance Auto Parts stands as a leading provider in the automotive aftermarket, offering everything from replacement parts and performance upgrades to essential oils and fluids. They've made DIY car maintenance easier than ever, serving as a trusted one-stop shop for both professional installers and everyday car enthusiasts. If you're ready to tackle your own oil change, you can be confident that you'll find all the necessary supplies in one convenient place. Before you begin, let's delve into why you should consider doing it yourself and what you'll need.

Why You Should Consider Changing Your Own Oil

Taking on the task of changing your car's oil yourself offers a multitude of benefits:

• Save Money: By eliminating labour costs, you significantly reduce the expense associated with this routine maintenance. Your primary investment is in the right materials and tools, which will serve you for many oil changes to come.
• Save Time: Consider the time spent driving to a service centre, waiting for your appointment, enduring the service itself, and then queuing to pay. Performing an oil change at home is considerably quicker and far more convenient.
• Learn More About Car Maintenance: An oil change is a foundational skill in vehicle upkeep. It's a relatively simple process that offers a fantastic introduction to understanding your car's mechanics. Your car's owner's manual is an invaluable resource for specific details about your vehicle.

How Often Do You Need to Change Your Oil?

Traditionally, an oil change was recommended every six months or approximately 3,000 miles. However, advancements in lubricant technology mean that modern vehicles can often go longer between services. The exact interval can depend on several factors:

• Driving Habits: Frequent short trips, stop-and-go traffic, and strenuous driving conditions can lead to the oil degrading faster.
• Vehicle Age and Type: Older vehicles or those with specific engine designs might have different oil change requirements.
• Oil Quality: The type of oil used plays a significant role. Modern conventional oils might last between 5,000 to 7,500 miles, while full-synthetic motor oils can often extend this interval to 10,000, 15,000 miles, or even more, depending on the manufacturer's recommendations.

Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for the most accurate and manufacturer-recommended oil change schedule and specifications.

Essential Tools for Your DIY Oil Change

To successfully change your engine oil, you'll need a few key items:

1. Engine Oil

The most critical component! Ensure you select the correct type and viscosity as specified in your owner's manual. Options range from conventional to synthetic blends and full synthetics. For example, a Carquest Standard Oil Filter is ideal for conventional oil, offering protection for up to 5,000 miles and meeting Original Equipment (OE) specifications for fit, form, and function. It’s engineered with a precision bypass valve for optimal oil flow and a cellulose fiber media for reliable engine protection. Its nitrile anti-drain back valve ensures protection during engine start-up.

2. Oil Filter

The oil filter removes contaminants from the oil. Choosing the right one is essential. As mentioned, the Carquest Standard Oil Filter is a popular choice, meeting new car warranty requirements.

3. Wrenches

You'll need a wrench to remove the drain plug. The size can vary, but 13mm or 15mm are common. A Gear Wrench 5-Piece Ratcheting Combination Wrench Set, including metric sizes like 10, 12, 13, 14, and 15mm, is a worthwhile investment for various car maintenance tasks.

4. Drain Pan

A container to catch the old oil. Ensure it's large enough to hold the entire volume of oil from your engine. A Lisle 6 Qt. Translucent Oil Dispenser with an 8-inch pouring spout is practical, marked in both quarts and litres for easy measurement.

5. Funnel

For adding the new oil cleanly. The Lisle oil dispenser mentioned above often includes a suitable spout, doubling as a funnel.

6. Rags or Paper Towels

For cleaning up spills and wiping parts. Scott Towels Rags In A Box are highly absorbent and disposable, made from durable cellulose fibres.

7. Safety Glasses

Crucial for protecting your eyes from falling debris or splashing oil. Safety Works Semi-Rimless Safety Glasses offer a secure fit with adjustable temples and come with ear plugs for comprehensive protection.

8. Gloves

To keep your hands clean and provide a better grip. Nitrile or latex gloves are suitable.

9. Jack and Jack Stands (or Ramps)

To safely elevate your vehicle, providing access to the drain plug and oil filter. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack; always use sturdy jack stands or ramps.

10. Gasket/Crush Washer

Many vehicles require a new gasket or crush washer for the drain plug at each oil change to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks. The Dorman - Autograde M14 Gasket Assortment provides various direct replacement and universal gaskets, including a drain plug, designed to meet strict engineering standards.

11. Rubber Mallet (Optional)

A DieHard Rubber Mallet can be useful for gently tapping the drain plug to loosen it if it's stuck.

Finding the Right Oil for Your Vehicle

Identifying the correct engine oil is paramount. Your car's owner's manual is the definitive source for this information, detailing the recommended oil weight (e.g., 5W-30) and type (conventional, synthetic blend, or full synthetic). If you don't have your manual handy, you can often find this information on a sticker under the bonnet or by using online tools provided by auto parts retailers like Advance Auto Parts. Simply input your vehicle's year, make, model, and engine type, and they will guide you to compatible oil options and filters.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Car's Oil

Once you have gathered all your supplies, follow these steps carefully:

1. Prepare the Vehicle: Park your car on a level surface. Engage the parking brake. If necessary, use wheel chocks for added safety.
2. Warm Up the Engine: Run the engine for a few minutes to warm the oil. Warm oil flows more easily, allowing for better drainage. However, avoid letting it get too hot to prevent burns.
3. Safely Lift the Vehicle: Using a jack and jack stands or ramps, lift the front of the vehicle to provide adequate access to the oil drain plug and filter. Ensure the vehicle is stable and secure before proceeding.
4. Locate and Position the Drain Pan: Slide the drain pan underneath the oil drain plug, usually located at the bottom of the oil pan.
5. Remove the Drain Plug: Using the appropriate wrench, carefully loosen and remove the drain plug. Be prepared for the hot oil to start flowing out immediately. Pull the plug away quickly from the stream of oil.
6. Drain the Old Oil: Allow the old oil to drain completely into the pan. This may take several minutes.
7. Clean and Replace the Drain Plug: While the oil is draining, clean the drain plug with a rag. Inspect the threads for any damage. If your vehicle requires it, replace the old gasket or crush washer with a new one. Reinstall the drain plug and tighten it securely with your wrench. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the oil pan threads.
8. Remove the Old Oil Filter: Locate the oil filter. Position the drain pan beneath it, as some oil will likely spill out. Use an oil filter wrench to loosen the filter. Once loose, unscrew it by hand.
9. Prepare the New Oil Filter: Clean the filter mounting surface on the engine with a rag. Dip your finger in new engine oil and lubricate the rubber gasket on the new oil filter. This helps ensure a good seal and makes it easier to remove next time.
10. Install the New Oil Filter: Screw the new oil filter onto the engine by hand until the gasket makes contact with the mounting surface. Then, tighten it an additional 3/4 to 1 full turn by hand, or as per the filter manufacturer's instructions. Avoid using a wrench unless absolutely necessary and specified.
11. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle off the jack stands or ramps.
12. Refill with New Oil: Open the bonnet and locate the oil filler cap. Using a funnel, carefully pour the correct amount and type of new engine oil into the engine. Refer to your owner's manual for the exact capacity.
13. Check the Oil Level: Replace the oil filler cap. Start the engine and let it run for about a minute. Check the dashboard for the oil pressure warning light; it should go out shortly after the engine starts.
14. Final Oil Level Check: Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle back into the oil pan. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and then pull it out again to check the oil level. It should be between the 'min' and 'max' marks. Add more oil if necessary, in small increments, rechecking the level each time.
15. Clean Up and Dispose of Old Oil: Clean up any spills. Pour the old oil from the drain pan into a sealable container, such as the empty new oil bottles. Proper disposal of used motor oil is crucial. Many auto parts stores and local recycling centres accept used oil. Never pour it down drains or onto the ground.

Troubleshooting and Tips

Leaking Drain Plug or Filter: If you notice a leak after changing the oil, re-check the tightness of the drain plug and oil filter. Ensure the gasket on the drain plug was replaced correctly and that the oil filter's gasket made proper contact.

Incorrect Oil Level: Overfilling can be as detrimental as underfilling. Always check the dipstick multiple times after adding oil, allowing time for it to settle.

Stripped Threads: If you suspect you've stripped the threads on the drain plug or oil pan, seek professional advice. This is a more complex repair.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use any oil filter?
No, you must use an oil filter that is compatible with your vehicle's make, model, and engine. Consult your owner's manual or use online compatibility checkers.

Q2: How tight should the drain plug be?
Tighten it until it's snug, then give it an additional quarter to half turn. Overtightening can strip the threads. If you have a torque wrench, use the specification listed in your owner's manual.

Q3: What if I don't have jack stands?
While ramps are an alternative, using jack stands is the safest method for supporting the vehicle. Never rely solely on a jack.

Q4: How do I dispose of used oil?
Used motor oil is a hazardous waste. Take it to an authorized collection centre, such as an auto parts store, service station, or local recycling facility.

Q5: Do I need to change the oil filter every time?
Yes, it's highly recommended to replace the oil filter with every oil change to ensure optimal engine protection.

Changing your own oil is a rewarding and cost-effective maintenance task. With the right tools and a careful approach, you can keep your engine in peak condition and gain valuable experience in car care. Advance Auto Parts offers a comprehensive range of products to support your DIY automotive journey.

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