Of the five easiest auto repairs, this job will take a bit more time, and you may get your hands a little dirty, but it can also be the most gratifying. Before you start, warm up the engine so the oil contaminants will drain more easily, and park the vehicle on a level surface. To change the oil, you will need to place a drain pan under the engine and remove the drain plug. Once the oil is drained and the filter replaced, reinstall the drain plug and add the proper amount and type of oil as specified in your vehicle owner’s manual. Oil changes happen regularly, so you could save a significant amount of money over the life of your car by changing the oil on your own instead of relying on your mechanic.
Easy Factor: These days, engines are designed with service in mind. Oil filters and oil fill locations have been improved for easy removal and less chance of spills. The recommended engine oil type and capacity is in the vehicle owner’s manual.
Tip: The used oil can be poured into the original container and dropped off at the local auto parts store.
Tool Factor: Latex gloves, oil filter wrench, drain pan, combination wrench, and a funnel.
Time Factor: Less than 30 minutes.
– Ray Cox is a senior ASE Certified technician with AutoMD.com, an online automotive-repair service owned by US Auto Parts Network. For these and other how-to guides on car repair, visit the how-to section of AutoMD.com.
