The prospect of undertaking car maintenance, even a seemingly basic chore like an oil change, can be intimidating. With that said, unlike the common assumption, changing your car's oil filter can be more convenient and cost-effective than taking your car to a local auto repair shop. In the following step-by-step guide, we will teach you how to do it correctly, safely, and economically. So without further ado, let’s dive right into it:
• Step 1: Opt For The Right Oil Filter
Before you go to the auto parts store, look up the type and weight of oil recommended in your car's handbook. When it comes to oil viscosity, it is especially vital to stick to the manufacturer's guidelines. Oil pressure is used in late-model engines to adjust valve timing and supply adequate strain to the timing belt or chain. Engine damage, poor performance, and even a “Check Engine” warning might come from substituting your personal preferences for the manufacturer's suggestions. This is a critical stage that lays a strong foundation for how your overall oil filter change will roll out.
• Step 2: Prioritize Safety
It is necessary to have protective gear by your side in order to ensure a professional oil filter change. To be on the safe side, it is a good idea to put on latex gloves and keep lots of clean towels.
• Step 3: Prepare Your Car
Set the parking brake and park your automobile on a flat surface. To keep the car from rolling, place a block between the tires and the floor. Allow plenty of time for the motor oil to cool down because it can reach scorching temperatures.
• Step 4: Locate The Oil Filter
Next up, look around the engine's sides and back. You are looking for a spherical object roughly the size of a can of soup that is protruding from the engine's lowest section.
Now that you have located the oil filter, you will need to figure out how to get to it. You may be able to access it from the top, but on some vehicles, the only way to access it is from below. You will need ramps to raise the automobile if you do not have adequate clearance.
• Step 5: Make Sure The Filter Is Sealed Properly
Not allowing the oil filter to dry is one of the most prevalent oil-change blunders. When a new oil filter is reinstalled while it is still wet, it creates a weak seal, which can result in loose-fitting and leaking filters. The filter might loosen up along the way, spilling your car's oil all over the driveway. To guarantee a flawless seal, always fill the filter halfway with oil. After that, spread a tiny amount around the filter.
• Step 6: Examine The Oil Level
After a few minutes of waiting for the oil to set into the pan, use the dipstick to check that the oil level is correct. While changing the oil filter, it is easy to check your oil. You just need to remove the dipstick from its tube, wipe away all oil using a towel, insert the dipstick again, and check that the coil is lined up with the full marking on the dipstick tip. Finally, start the car and let it sit for a few minutes to warm up; look for leaks under the car and around the oil filter.
• Step 7: Be Careful While Throwing Away Old Oil
There are no ifs or buts when it comes to properly dispose of used motor oil. Many local auto shops that perform oil filter changes regularly may be able to help you dispose of this oil, ensuring that it is properly recycled.
The Takeaway Message
The regular oil change is one of the most common do-it-yourself car maintenance tasks. Though it's a basic procedure, it's always a good idea to refresh your memory so you know exactly what it takes to perform a successful oil change. And, if this is your first time changing your own oil filter, we hope you find this information helpful in learning and comprehending how to change your car's oil filter. So next time you want to perform an oil change, you do not need to tap into the old practice of finding a local auto repair store by typing “oil change and filter near me” in the search engine.
0
