Changing car engine oil at home: step-by-step guide and tips for beginners
Changing your engine oil is one of the most important and frequent maintenance tasks your car needs. While many car owners prefer to take it to a service center, changing your oil at home is actually a do-it-yourself task that almost anyone can do. Not only will it save you money, it will also help you get to know your vehicle better.
In this guide, we'll explain how to choose the right oil, what tools you need, and how to carry out the change process safely.
Why is regular oil changes critical?
The function of engine oil is to reduce friction between moving parts, cool the engine and collect dirt. Over time, the properties of the oil deteriorate:
- lubrication capacity decreases: the risk of engine wear increases.
- Dirt accumulates: old oil contains soot and metal particles.
- fuel consumption increases: old and thickened oil increases resistance.
The general recommendation is to change the oil every 10,000 - 15,000 km or once a year, depending on the car manufacturer's instructions.
Preparation: What do you need?
Before you start working, make sure you have everything you need. Good preparation is half the battle.
Make sure you have new oil, filter, and the necessary tools ready.
1. the right materials
- Engine oil: check the car manual for the appropriate viscosity (e.g. 5w-30) and quantity. Prefer fully synthetic oil.
- Oil filter: always change it with the oil.
- Crankcase cover gasket (washer): recommended to replace to prevent leaks.
2. tools
- wrenches or socket wrenches.
- oil filter wrench (if necessary).
- oil collection tub.
- jack and support stands .
- rubber gloves and rags.
7 steps to a successful oil change
1. warm up the engine
Cold oil flows slowly. Start the car and let the engine run for 2-3 minutes so that the oil becomes more fluid and comes out better with the sediment.
2. Raise the car and back up for safety
Park on a level surface, lift the car and secure it on jack stands.
3. Draining old oil
Locate the oil drain plug under the engine, place a drain pan under it and carefully unscrew the plug. Allow the oil to drain completely (approx. 10-15 minutes).
Draining old oil requires patience – let it drain out to the last drop.
4. oil filter replacement
while the oil is draining, change the filter.
- unscrew the old filter.
- Clean the mounting surface.
- NB! Lightly lubricate the new filter gasket with fresh oil.
- Screw the new filter into place by hand (do not use tools to tighten).
Always lubricate the filter gasket with fresh oil before installation.
5. closing the crankcase cap
Clean the cap, put a new washer on and screw the cap back on. Do not overtighten!
6. pouring in new oil
Open the oil cap on the top of the engine and pour in the prescribed amount of oil using a funnel. Leave a little extra at first and check the level with a dipstick.
Use a funnel to prevent oil from getting on other parts of the engine.
7. Check and start-up
Start the engine, watch the oil pressure light and check for leaks. After a few minutes, check the level again.
What to do with old oil?
Old engine oil is a hazardous waste . Pour it into a sealable container and take it to the nearest waste disposal site or gas station collection point. Do not pour it down the drain!
Do you need help finding the right oil?
Before going to the store, be sure to check the exact oil standard and viscosity of your car by its factory model (VIN code or reg number).
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