How To Change Your Car’s Oil
Step By Step Guide
Vehicle engines run at high speeds, and adequate lubrication is necessary to prevent damage from friction. Your owner’s manual has a maintenance schedule, but it’s not always easy to get your vehicle into the shop. Here’s a step-by-step guide from the pros at Carlisle Air Automotive in South San Antonio, Texas on how to perform an oil change yourself.
1. Gather Your Supplies
Consult your owner’s manual for the type and amount of oil needed before you get started. While you’re at the auto parts store, you’ll also need a few other tools to complete this project:
- Oil filter
- Wrenches to remove the oil filter and drain plug
- Funnel
- Drain pan
- Work gloves
- Jack stands or ramps if there isn’t enough clearance below your vehicle
2. Prepare the Vehicle
Let the engine run long enough to warm up without getting hot. This gets the oil circulating If the temperature is too high to get started, allow it to cool slightly while you lift the car on ramps or jack stands. You don’t want to get burned! Open the hood and remove the oil fill cap to create a smoother stream for draining.
3. Drain the Oil
Position your pan beneath the oil tank, remove the plug and allow it to drain completely before replugging. If your drain pan isn’t large enough to fit under the filter, use a secondary pan before removing the filtration device. Remove the old filter’s O-ring if it’s stuck to the tank.
4. Refill the Tank
Take a small amount of new oil on your finger and smear it on the new filter’s O-ring before screwing it back in place for a tight seal. Add your replacement oil into the tank before replacing the fill cap and running the engine for 30 seconds. Use the dipstick to check the level and add any additional lubrication if necessary.
Keep Your Engine Safe
If this process sounds too intimidating, let the experts at Carlisle Air Automotive do it for you. It’s why we’re here! We’ve worked with San Antonio drivers for more than 60 years and we have what it takes to maintain your vehicle’s health. To schedule an appointment, call our shop today.