Can I do an oil change myself?
Yes. With the right tools, the correct oil and filter, and careful adherence to your vehicle’s specifications and local disposal rules, many drivers can change their own oil. This guide lays out how to decide if DIY is right for you and, if so, how to do it safely and efficiently.
Is DIY oil changing right for you?
Most cars can be serviced at home, but some models introduce extra steps or constraints. Always check your owner’s manual for the exact oil type, capacity, and filter type, and note any special service notes. If your vehicle has a turbocharged engine, a diesel option, a cartridge-type filter, or a tight drain-plug area, you may need extra care or tools. Consider the time, space, and disposal options you have, and whether performing maintenance yourself could affect your warranty or service records.
Vehicle compatibility and considerations
To decide whether you should DIY, evaluate how accessible the drain plug and filter are, whether you have a safe workspace, and your comfort with basic mechanical tasks. The manual will guide you on oil viscosity (for example, 0W-20 or 5W-30), required oil type (synthetic vs conventional), and the filter configuration. If your car uses a cartridge filter or a more complex setup, plan accordingly. If you’re unsure, consult a professional mechanic or your dealership before proceeding.
Below is a practical inventory of gear and materials you’ll need to complete a standard oil change. Having these items on hand reduces the risk of delays and helps ensure you drain and refill safely and cleanly.
- Correct oil type and quantity for your engine (per the owner's manual or under-hood label). Use the recommended viscosity and grade, and note if synthetic or conventional oil is required.
- New oil filter compatible with your engine (spin-on or cartridge type; check the exact part number).
- Oil drain pan to catch used oil; large enough to hold the full drained volume.
- Socket or wrench to remove the drain plug, and an oil filter wrench if needed.
- Funnel to pour new oil without spills.
- Jack and jack stands or ramps to safely elevate the vehicle; wheel chocks for security.
- Gloves, shop towels, and rags for cleanup; safety glasses recommended.
- Replacement drain plug washer (if your car uses one) and fresh gasket for the oil filter if required.
- Torque wrench (recommended) to tighten the drain plug and filter to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- A sealed container or outer jug to store the used oil for recycling (accepts at most auto parts stores or service shops).
- Flashlight or work light to inspect the drain area and the filter.
With these items on hand, you’ll be prepared to complete the oil change while maintaining safety and cleanliness.
Step-by-step: how to change the oil
Follow these steps in order, and adapt as needed to your vehicle’s manual. If your car requires special procedures, defer to the OEM instructions.
- Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and allow the engine to cool. Gather your tools and place a drain pan beneath the oil drain plug.
- Lift the front of the car with a jack and secure it on jack stands or drive it up on ramps. Place chocks behind the wheels to prevent movement.
- Open the engine oil fill cap to vent pressure, which helps the oil drain more smoothly.
- Place the drain pan under the oil drain plug, then use the proper socket to remove the drain plug slowly and let the oil drain completely into the pan.
- Use an oil-filter wrench if needed to remove the old oil filter. Let any residual oil drain out, then prepare the new filter by lightly coating its gasket with fresh oil.
- Install the new oil filter by hand, ensuring it sits snugly but avoid over-tightening. Replace the drain plug with a new washer if required and tighten to the vehicle’s specified torque.
- Lower the car and return to level ground if you used jacks or ramps. Remove the fill cap and pour in the new oil using a funnel.
- Pour in the full recommended capacity, then replace the fill cap. Start the engine and let it run briefly, checking for leaks around the filter and drain plug.
- Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes, then check the oil level with the dipstick. Add oil in small increments if the level is below the full mark, rechecking until it’s within range.
- Dispose of the used oil and old filter properly by taking them to a recycling center or an auto parts store that accepts used oil. Clean up any spills and store tools neatly.
Following these steps carefully helps ensure a clean, safe, and compliant oil-change procedure. If you encounter any leaks, unusual noises, or the oil doesn’t drain as expected, stop and consult a professional.
Safety, disposal, and warranty considerations
Oil changes involve hot engine fluids and potentially slippery surfaces. Wear protective gloves and eye protection, work in a well-ventilated area, and keep children and pets away from the workspace. Use a sturdy stand or ramp and never work under a car supported only by a jack. Recycle used oil and filters at certified facilities; never dispose of oil down a drain or on the ground. If your vehicle is still under warranty, confirm that a DIY oil change won’t void coverage; keep receipts and follow the manufacturer’s oil and filter specifications to avoid disputes.
Summary
For many drivers, changing the oil at home is a doable, cost-saving maintenance task when you have the right tools, the correct oil and filter, and a plan for safe lifting and proper disposal. Always consult your owner's manual for exact oil grade, capacity, and torque specs, and adhere to local recycling rules. If in doubt, seek guidance from a professional mechanic to avoid damage or warranty issues.
Do I need to go to a mechanic for an oil change?
Generally speaking, though, it shouldn't matter much where you get your oil changed if you do it on schedule. As long as you keep your receipts and perform oil changes at recommended intervals, you won't void your warranty if you go to an independent shop.
Is it hard to do an oil change yourself?
No, doing your own oil change is not hard, and it is a manageable DIY task for most people, though it takes about 30 minutes to an hour, especially the first time. The difficulty depends on your comfort with basic tools, safety precautions, and the specific vehicle, but the process involves draining the old oil, replacing the oil filter, and refilling with new oil.
You can watch this video for a step-by-step guide on changing your car's oil: 50sSIXSPEEDOFFICIALYouTube · Jun 29, 2022
What you'll need
- Safety equipment: Jack, jack stands, wheel blocks, gloves, and eye protection
- Tools: Socket set, oil filter wrench (or socket), funnel, and a drain pan
- Supplies: New motor oil (check your owner's manual for the correct type and amount) and a new oil filter
Steps to change your own oil
- Prepare your car: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use a jack and jack stands to raise the car safely. Place a drain pan under the engine's oil plug.
- Drain the old oil: Remove the oil filler cap to help the oil drain faster. Then, use a socket to loosen the drain plug and remove it. Allow all the old oil to drain into the pan, which can take about 15 minutes.
- Replace the filter: Locate the old oil filter and remove it. Before installing the new one, apply a thin coat of new oil to the rubber seal of the new filter. Hand-tighten the new filter until it is snug.
- Add new oil: With the drain plug replaced, lower the car. Pour the recommended amount of new oil into the engine through the filler cap using a funnel. You can use the dipstick to check the level, adding oil until it's between the "add" and "full" marks.
- Final checks: Start the engine to circulate the new oil for a few minutes. Then, shut it off and check for leaks underneath. Re-check the oil level on the dipstick and add more if needed, without overfilling.
- Clean up: Pour the old oil from the pan into a container for recycling and clean up any spills. Most auto parts stores will recycle used oil.
Are you allowed to do your own oil change?
It may, but you should read the fine print. If you own a new(er) vehicle, the manufacturer warranty may specify that all maintenance, including oil changes, be performed by authorized service technicians or dealers.
Can I do my own car oil change?
Changing your own oil is straightforward for someone willing to follow basic safety steps and a short sequence of mechanical tasks. It's low-risk, saves money, and teaches useful vehicle maintenance skills. Difficulty depends on vehicle design, tools, and your comfort with simple hand tools.
