Regular oil changes are one of the most important maintenance steps to keep your car running smoothly and prolong the life of the engine. If you are a do-it-yourselfer, changing your oil not only saves you money but also gives you the satisfaction of taking care of your car yourself. This article will guide you through how to change your oil at home in detail, from preparation steps, the oil change process, to important maintenance tips.

1. Preparation Before Changing Car Oil

Before you begin changing your oil, you need to have all the necessary tools and materials ready. This includes:

• New Engine Oil: Make sure you choose the right type of oil for your vehicle. Consult your vehicle owner's manual for exact information on the type of oil to use.
• New Oil Filter: The oil filter needs to be replaced along with the engine oil to ensure clean system operation.
• Oil filter wrench: This is the tool needed to remove the old oil filter.
• Old Oil Container: You will need a container large enough to catch all of the old oil as it drains.
• Protective gloves and rags: To keep your hands clean and avoid oil splashes.

You will also need to prepare a clean, spacious workspace, and avoid strong winds to prevent oil from being blown away. Place the vehicle on a flat, stable surface. If possible, use a car lift to easily access the parts under the vehicle.

2. Steps to Change Car Oil at Home

Step 1: Warm Up the Engine

Before changing the oil, you should let the car run for a few minutes to warm up the engine oil. Warm oil is thinner, making the draining process faster and cleaner. However, you should not let the engine get too hot, as this can cause burns if you come into contact with the engine parts.

Step 2: Lift the Vehicle

Once the engine is warm, use a car jack to raise the front of the vehicle, giving you easy access to the oil drain area. Make sure the vehicle is securely secured to the jack to avoid injury.

Step 3: Remove the Oil Drain Screw

After raising the car, you need to find the oil drain plug under the car. Usually, the oil drain plug is located under the engine. Place the old oil container under the drain plug, then use a wrench to loosen and remove the plug. The old oil will drain out, let the oil drain for a few minutes until it is just a trickle.

Step 4: Replace the Oil Filter

Once the old oil has drained, you will need to replace the oil filter. Use an oil filter wrench to remove the old filter. Be careful when removing it to avoid any remaining oil from leaking out. Install the new filter in place, making sure to apply a thin layer of oil to the rubber gasket of the new filter before installing it to ensure a tight seal.

Step 5: Screw the Oil Drain Screw Back On

Once the new filter is installed, re-tighten the drain plug. Make sure it is tight to prevent future oil leaks. If necessary, you can replace the drain plug washer to improve the seal.

Step 6: Pour New Oil

It’s time to add new oil to your engine. Open the oil filler cap on your engine and slowly pour in the new oil. You should check the amount of oil in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. Once you’ve added it, replace the cap and check the oil level with the dipstick to make sure you have enough.

Step 7: Start the Vehicle and Test

After changing the oil, let the car run for a few minutes to allow the new oil to circulate through the engine. Check under the car to make sure there are no oil leaks. If everything looks good, lower the car and do a final check of the oil level with the dipstick.

3. Maintenance Tips After Oil Change

After changing your oil, regular maintenance is important to keep your car running smoothly. Here are some maintenance tips you should follow:

Check Oil Level Regularly

Always check the oil level periodically with the dipstick. If you find the oil level is unusually low, check the vehicle immediately to find the cause and fix it promptly.

Use the Right Oil

Select the correct oil according to the operating conditions and manufacturer's recommendations. Using poor quality or unsuitable oil can damage the engine.

Note Oil Change Time

Keep track of oil change times and mileage to perform regular oil changes. Typically, oil should be changed every 5,000 – 10,000 km depending on the type of oil and operating conditions.

Check Related Parts

During an oil change, also check other parts such as the air filter, belts, and cooling system to ensure your vehicle is in top condition.

Proper Oil Disposal

Finally, dispose of old oil properly. Do not dump used oil into the environment. You can take your old oil to a recycling center or service shop for safe disposal.

4. Benefits of Regular Oil Changes

Regular oil changes not only help your vehicle run smoothly but also provide many other benefits such as:

Extend Engine Life

Engine oil lubricates the moving parts of the engine, reducing friction and wear. When old oil becomes dirty, its lubricating ability is reduced, causing damage to the engine. Regular oil changes help protect the engine and prolong the life of the vehicle.

Fuel Economy

When engine oil is clean, it helps the engine run more efficiently, which saves fuel. Conversely, dirty oil can increase resistance in the engine, leading to increased fuel consumption.

Reduce Emissions

Regular oil changes also help reduce emissions. Dirty oil not only reduces engine performance but also increases harmful emissions. Good maintenance helps your car run more environmentally friendly.

Improve Engine Performance

New oil helps the engine run smoother, improve performance and respond better in different operating conditions. This is especially important for those who regularly drive long distances or in severe conditions.

5. Maintenance

Changing your car's oil at home is not a complicated task but plays an important role in maintaining and prolonging the life of your car. This not only saves money but also brings joy when taking care of your car yourself. Follow the instructions in this article to perform an oil change properly and ensure your car is always in the best condition.

If you’ve never changed your car’s oil before, give it a try. Doing it yourself will help you get to know your car better and be able to spot other signs of needing maintenance early. Good luck and drive safely!