Follow these steps to change the oil in your vehicle

How to change the oil in your vehicle

Changing the oil in your vehicle is an essential part of keeping it running smoothly. If you do not change the oil in your vehicle every 3,000-5,000 miles, it will turn into sludge, and cause more damage to your engine. Keep reading as we give you a step-by-step guide on how to change the oil in your vehicle.

Purchase the correct type of oil

The very first thing you must do before you even jack up your vehicle is purchase the correct type and amount of oil as well as the correct filter. You can find all of this information in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. Make sure that you pay attention to the type of oil that you purchase. While the numbers might look similar, they are for very different types of engines.

Steps for changing the oil in your vehicle

1. Put your vehicle on blocks

This will make it easier for you to work under your vehicle. Consult your owner’s manual for the jack points.

2. Put the oil drain pan under the drain plug

The plug is located under the engine, towards the front bumper.

3. Take off the oil cap and set it somewhere you will remember

This will help the oil drain out faster.

4. Take out the drain plug

As you unscrew the plug, keep pressure on it so that you do not get oil all over yourself. When you are ready, remove the plug quickly.

5. Let all of the oil drain out from your vehicle

Since the oil is thicker now, it may take a few minutes for all of it to come out. Once you are sure it is all out, put the drain plug back in.

6. Locate the filter

It can be anywhere next to the engine. Look at the replacement that you purchased so that you know what you are looking for.

Read More: How to stop your brakes from squeaking

7. Remove the filter

As you do so, make sure the oil pan is under where you are working to catch excess oil.

8. Prepare the new filter

Rub a little bit of new oil around the ring of the new filter to create a good seal.

9. Put the new filter where the old one was

Check the box for specifics on how tight to turn the new filter.

10. Go to the top of your vehicle, locate the place that you removed the oil cap from. This is where you are going to pour in the new oil.

You can use a funnel for this step, or you can stick the neck of the bottle into the fill hole.

11. Locate the oil cap from step 3 and put it back. Make sure it is tight.

Clean up any oil that you might have spilled, and check under your vehicle to make sure that nothing is dripping.

12. Start your engine

Let it run for a couple of minutes. Then, turn it off and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Check the dipstick to make sure there is enough oil in your vehicle.

Where can I get an oil change in Winchester, VA?

After reading this, did you decide that you would rather have someone do the oil change in your vehicle for you? No worries! Let our friendly technicians in our service department change your oil and get you on your way in no time. Give us a call at 855-466-4207 to schedule an appointment today!

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