Performing your own oil change is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to maintain your vehicle. It’s not just about saving a few bucks—learning how to change oil on your own gives you more control over your car’s upkeep and can even be a satisfying DIY project. While many people rely on auto shops for oil changes, changing your oil yourself requires only a few basic tools and a little bit of time. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about how to change your own oil.
Why Do You Need to Change Your Oil?
Before learning how to change oil, it’s helpful to understand why it’s important. Motor oil lubricates the moving parts of your engine, reduces friction, and helps cool your engine by carrying heat away. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes dirty, which reduces its effectiveness and can harm your engine. Most manufacturers recommend getting an oil change every 3,000 to 7,500 miles depending on the type of oil used, the vehicle, and driving conditions.
By doing your own oil change, you can keep an eye on your engine’s condition, avoid unnecessary upsells from mechanics, and ensure you’re using the exact oil and filter your vehicle needs. It also allows you to create a routine of checking your oil levels more frequently, which can help prevent engine issues down the road.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
When it comes to how to change oil, preparation is key. You’ll need several basic items before you start. These include:
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A wrench (either a socket or box wrench, depending on your vehicle)
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Oil filter wrench
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New oil filter
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Fresh motor oil (consult your owner’s manual for the correct type and quantity)
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Oil drain pan
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Funnel
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Car jack and jack stands or car ramps
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Gloves and rags
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Old newspaper or cardboard (to protect your driveway or garage floor)
Having all of these tools ready will make the oil change process smoother and prevent unnecessary delays. It’s also helpful to wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty and have access to a safe space where you can jack up the car without risk.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Changing Your Oil
Step 1: Warm Up the Engine
Start the car and let it run for about five minutes. This warms up the oil, making it thinner and easier to drain. Never attempt an oil change on a hot engine, though—wait a few minutes after turning it off so you don’t burn yourself.
Step 2: Secure the Vehicle
Park on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Use a jack and jack stands or drive the vehicle up on ramps for better access to the oil pan. Always double-check that your car is stable before crawling underneath.
Step 3: Locate and Remove the Drain Plug
Position the drain pan under the oil pan’s drain plug. Use your wrench to loosen the plug and remove it by hand. Let the old oil drain out completely into the pan. This can take a few minutes. Be careful—the oil may still be warm.
Step 4: Remove the Old Oil Filter
Use an oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old oil filter. Be aware that some oil may spill out during this step, so keep the drain pan nearby. Check to make sure the rubber gasket came off with the old filter—if it sticks to the engine, the new filter won’t seal properly.
Step 5: Install the New Filter
Before installing the new oil filter, apply a small amount of fresh oil to the rubber gasket to ensure a tight seal. Then screw it into place by hand. It should be snug but not overly tight—usually about three-quarters of a turn past hand-tight is perfect.
Step 6: Replace the Drain Plug
Once all the old oil has drained out, replace the drain plug and tighten it securely with your wrench. Do not overtighten, as you can strip the threads or crack the oil pan.
Step 7: Add New Oil
Use a funnel to pour the recommended amount and type of new oil into the engine via the oil filler cap, usually located on top of the engine. Once you’ve added the oil, replace the cap.
Step 8: Check Oil Levels and Leaks
Start the engine and let it run for about 30 seconds, then shut it off and wait a few minutes. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, and check the oil level. Add more oil if needed. Look under the car to ensure there are no leaks around the drain plug or filter.
Step 9: Dispose of the Old Oil Properly
Never pour used motor oil down the drain or into the ground. Most auto parts stores and service stations accept used oil and filters for recycling. Pour the old oil into a sealed container and take it to a recycling center near you.
Tips to Make Your Oil Change Even Easier
Changing your own oil can be messy the first couple of times, but with a few tips, it becomes easier each time. First, always double-check your vehicle’s owner manual for specifics on oil weight, filter type, and capacity. Second, keep a log of your oil change dates and mileage. This can help you stay consistent and prove maintenance if you ever sell the vehicle.
It’s also a good idea to buy a pair of mechanic’s gloves for better grip and hand protection. Using a creeper or large piece of cardboard to slide under the car makes the job more comfortable, especially if you’re working on a driveway. If you’re unsure about anything, YouTube is full of tutorials for specific makes and models.
Why Learning How to Change Oil is Worth It
Performing your own oil change isn’t just a great way to save money—it builds confidence and teaches you more about how your vehicle operates. A typical oil change at a service shop can cost between $40 and $100 or more, depending on the oil type. Doing it yourself can cost as little as $20 if you shop around for supplies. Over a few years, that adds up to hundreds of dollars in savings.
Even if you only change your oil occasionally, the skills you develop can extend to other maintenance tasks like changing air filters, rotating tires, or even replacing brake pads. Learning how to change oil also ensures that the job gets done correctly with quality parts and without pressure to buy unnecessary add-ons.