Changing Oil Filters

Changing oil is a challenging task, but can be performed with ease if the steps are followed in the proper order. Though the parts may vary in different vehicles, the steps are typically the same. Some spots you will need to access are tighter than others when performing the tasks. It doesn’t take long to change the oil in a vehicle. First, you will need the proper replacement equipment for the oil change which include wrenches, rags, a drain pan, an oil filter, and the oil that is specific for your vehicle. To identify the proper oil and filter, you will have to look in the owner’s manual. Generally, the normal oil used in vehicles is 10w 30. Oil filters can be in all different brands, but replacing the original with another original is
the normal procedure. The drain plug can be all different sizes, so it is recommended to have a variety of wrench sizes. The rags are used to absorb the oil in case it is spilled. Preferably, you should use lint free microfiber rags, so you don’t get lint or cotton in the oil. The drain pan in used to catch the used oil that will be draining from your vehicle. Next, you will need to locate the oil filter and drain plug. These are the two parts you will be removing for this process. The owner’s manual will identify where they are located on your vehicle, though they are usually located underneath the engine, towards the right side. Once you have located the oil plug, you will have to place the drain pan underneath it. Now, you will have to loosen the plug with a specific sized wrench. You will unscrew it all of the way out to let the oil flow into the drain pan. Keep the drain plug secure so it is not lost. Once you have located the filter, wrap a rag around it and twist it off completely with your hands. Some oil may still be in the filter that will need to be drained into the drain pan. Allow all the oil to drain out of the vehicle for a couple minutes, or until there is no more coming out. Finally, the installation process will take place with the drain plug, the oil filter, and the new oil being installed.
First, screw in the drain plug tightly. It is meant to be tight, but not so tight that you break the threads on the plug. Next, compare the old oil filter to the new one to make sure there is no difference in model. An incorrect model may cause it not to fit properly. The threads and size should be identical. Now, install the new oil filter. Make sure it is hand tight, but not to where you are going to mess up the threads. Once that is complete, it is time too pour the proper oil required in your vehicle. The amount of oil you will need is also in the same owner’s manual where you found the type of oil. The oil will be poured into the hole under a cap that is labeled “oil” on the top of the engine, under the hood of the car. Pour in approximately the amount of oil needed. Let the oil settle to the bottom, which will take approximately 30 seconds. Then, locate the yellow oil dipstick on the top of the engine. You will pull the rod all of the way out and wipe it off with a rag. Stick it all the way back in, then remove it once again. Read the line of oil on the bottom of the dipstick to determine if you need to add more oil in the oil fill hole. Repeat this process by adding a small amount of oil each time, until the dip stick fill line is reached. Do not over fill or under fill the vehicle with oil. Doing so will cause a mechanical failure. The last step will be the cleaning up of the oil, if any was spilled. Drain the oil drain pan in a proper disposal container found at most auto parts stores. Wipe out the remaining oil in the drain pan with a rag. Dispose of the used rags and the used oil filter at containers, which can also be found at most auto part stores. The process of performing an oil change becomes easier the more often you do it. Nothing is easy the first time. If you have all the correct parts this task will go smoothly. After you perform
a couple of oil changes you will be proficient in no time.