by Maggie O'Leary

Created on: March 14, 2008   Last Updated: April 01, 2008

Changing the oil in a vehicle is really a simple task. The hardest part is simply getting started. While all vehicles are different, the following tips will work on every vehicle.

First, you'll need to purchase the proper oil and a new oil filter for your vehicle. Any auto parts store, and even Wal-Mart, can help you figure out exactly what type of filter and oil, and the correct quantity of oil that you'll need. You'll also need the correct size wrench to fit the bolt on your car's drain pan. Again, any auto parts store can help you figure out what size you need. You'll also need an oil filter wrench - this is simply a large metal device that will enable you to easily loosen and remove your oil filter. You'll also need a receptacle that is large enough to hold the used oil from your vehicle. I have a large round pan, that is big enough to drop the oil filter into when I take it off - this enables easy clean-up. Some vehicle owners made find a funnel to be beneficial during an oil change, so consider picking one of those up if you don't already have one.

I own a late-model Ford sedan. My car does sit low to the ground, but being a small female, I can get under it easily. You may have issues fitting under your car, so consider purchasing ramps that will enable you to raise your car up 12-16 inches. This will enable you to easily change your oil.

When you are ready to change your oil, you'll want to ensure that the engine has been sitting long enough to cool down. You don't want to burn yourself. Start by placing your pan or other container underneath the bolt on the oil pan. Make sure that you are out of the way of any oil, and slowly loosen the drainage bolt. You'll also want to loosen the oil filler cap, located somewhere on top of your engine. This enables the oil to drain out of the engine faster. Give the used oil plenty of time to drain out of your engine before moving on to the next step.

After the oil has finished draining from the engine, you can replace the drainage bolt. Next, you'll want to remove the used oil filter. Using your wrench, loosen the filter and remove it. Remember to keep your pan or container under the filter, to keep from contaminating the ground with used oil.

After you've removed the old oil filter, you can tighten the new one in its place. Then you'll need to add new oil to your engine. After you add the correct amount of oil to the engine, you'll want to check all other fluids in the vehicle, to make sure they are also at acceptable levels. You'll want to check your oil every week or so, to make sure nothing is leaking.

Finally, you should always take your used oil and oil filter to your nearest recycling facility. If you are not sure where a recycling facility is located, simply ask someone at your auto parts store. Many stores accept used auto parts and fluids for recycling. If your store doesn't, they will know someone who does.

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