How to do your own oil change?
Some maintenance is mandatory to keep your vehicle in tip-top shape. Whether it's changing the brake pads, the air filter, the tires or changing the oil, these services must be done sooner or later. Usually, oil changes should be done every 5,000 km.
Depending on how far you drive each day, oil changes can be relatively frequent. Each visit to the garage for an oil change costs at least $60. By learning how to do it yourself, you can save more than half of what it normally costs.
You need:
- Motor oil
- A rag
- Large pliers
- A funnel
- A reservoir for used oil
- A tool for unscrewing nuts
You can find the right type of oil for your car in the owner's manual. If not, some stores also keep directories that can tell you.
1. Warm up the engine
It is important to drive your vehicle before changing it. This way, metal particles can be removed during the operation. Be sure to warm it up until the needle on the dipstick reaches the middle of the scale, or until the "cold engine" indicator goes off. Then let it sit for about 10 minutes before starting.
2. Empty the used oil
To be able to drain the used oil, you need to know the location of the oil pan. This is a metal tank located under the engine.
Under the housing is a nut. This serves as a cap on the tank. Place the container for the used oil under the cap. Unscrew it slowly, keeping a slight pressure on it. Be careful not to burn yourself with the hot oil. Let the tank drain completely, then replace the cap.
3. Change the oil filter
It is important to change it at every oil change. The oil filter is usually located near the crankcase. Loosen it with pliers and then finish unscrewing it by hand. Install the new filter. Be sure to moisten the sealing strip with your finger to improve the seal. Tighten it by hand and finish tightening it with a pair of pliers designed for this purpose.
4. Fill the tank
Simply insert the funnel into the pipe from which you previously removed the cap. Slowly pour the oil into the tank. To ensure the level and quality of the oil, you can start your car for a few minutes, turn it off and check the oil on the dipstick.
5. Recycle the oil
Using the funnel, transfer the old oil into the old container of your new oil. Wipe your hands, your old filter and the container with your rag. Never dispose of oil down the drain; it is extremely polluting and toxic. Instead, take it to a recycling center near you!
