How can I change my oil myself?
Yes — you can change your own oil with basic tools, following your vehicle’s manual, and it can save money while teaching you more about your car’s maintenance needs.
What changing your oil involves
Oil changes are a routine maintenance task that clears out old, degraded oil and replaces it with fresh lubricant. The process involves draining the used oil from the engine, replacing the filter, and refilling with new oil to the level specified by the manufacturer. While the core steps are consistent across most cars, details like filter type, drain plug torque, and oil capacity vary by model.
Tools, supplies, and safety checks
Before you gather tools, here’s a checklist of items you’ll typically need and safety considerations to keep in mind.
- Correct oil type and quantity for your vehicle (check the owner’s manual or driver-side door jamb sticker).
- New oil filter compatible with your engine.
- Drain pan large enough to hold the used oil.
- Socket wrench or ratchet set and the appropriate size socket for the drain plug.
- Oil filter wrench (if your filter is tight or in a hard-to-reach spot).
- Funnel for adding oil.
- Jack and sturdy jack stands or ramps to elevate the vehicle on level ground.
- Wheel chocks and gloves to protect your hands.
- Rags or absorbent towels and a sturdy container for the used oil.
- Torque wrench (optional but recommended to avoid overtightening).
- Seal or washer for the drain plug (if your vehicle requires a new one).
With your tools ready and the correct oil identified, you’re prepared to begin the drain-and-fill steps, while keeping safety at the forefront.
Step-by-step oil change
Follow these steps in order for a safe and effective oil change. Ensure the engine is cool and the vehicle is secured on level ground before you start.
- Park on level ground, engage the parking brake, place wheel chocks, and raise the front of the car if needed using a jack and stands or ramps.
- Open the hood and remove the oil filler cap to allow air to escape as the oil drains.
- Position the drain pan beneath the engine’s drain plug.
- Carefully loosen and remove the drain plug with the appropriate socket; allow the old oil to drain completely into the pan.
- While the oil drains, locate and remove the old oil filter using an oil filter wrench if required; be prepared for some oil that may spill.
- Prepare the new oil filter by dabbing a little new oil on its gasket, then install it by hand until snug. Do not over-tighten.
- Inspect the drain plug for any washers or seals and replace as needed; reinstall the drain plug and tighten to the manufacturer’s torque specification (or snug, then a touch more if the spec is not available).
- Using a funnel, slowly pour the new oil into the engine through the filler opening, adding the amount specified in the manual. Refit the filler cap loosely at this stage.
- Start the engine and run for a minute or two to circulate the new oil, then turn off and wait a couple of minutes. Check for leaks around the drain plug and filter.
- Check the oil level with the dipstick and add more oil if necessary to reach the recommended level. Replace the dipstick, close the hood, and remove tools from the work area. If your vehicle has an oil service light, reset it according to the owner’s manual instructions.
After completing the steps, double-check for leaks, verify the oil level again, replace the filler cap, and dispose of the used oil and filter in accordance with local recycling regulations.
Vehicle-specific considerations
Conventional engines with a drain plug and traditional oil filter
Most older and many contemporary cars use a standard drain plug and canister-style filter. Follow the steps above, paying close attention to filter location and the correct torque for the drain plug.
Car with cartridge-style oil filter
Some modern cars use a cartridge-style filter that may require special tools or access from specific angles. Check your manual for the exact filter type, service interval, and whether the filter needs to be primed with oil before installation.
Motorcycles and small engines
Motorcycles and some lawn- and outdoor-power equipment may require different oil types (often higher viscosity or motorcycle-specific formulations) and caps or drain plugs with unique torque specs. Refer to the owner’s manual for capacity and type, and ensure you use the correct filter and gasket.
Disposal and environmental notes
Used oil is a hazardous waste and must be disposed of properly. Take the used oil and the old filter to an authorized recycling facility, automotive service center, or household hazardous waste program. Do not pour used oil onto the ground, into drains, or into the trash. Recycle as much as possible and store any leftover oil safely for future use if it’s still clean enough for reuse according to local guidelines.
Summary
Changing your oil at home is a cost-saving, learn-by-doing automotive task that many drivers can tackle with the right tools, patience, and adherence to their vehicle’s manual. Plan, gather the correct oil and filter, follow a careful step-by-step process, and dispose of used oil responsibly. When in doubt, consult a professional—oil changes can vary by model and may require special steps or tools.
