An Oil Change Made Easy

By Joe Kent

Oil changes are one of the most important auto maintenance requirements. But unfortunately, an oil change is often seen as a low priority in one’s busy schedule. Changing the oil in your car every 3,000 miles may seem like too much, but it is an important step in ensuring your engine remains running its best. Going 4 months or 4,000 miles won’t hurt your engine, but it is not good to get in the habit of putting off an oil change, which is something that can easily be done yourself!

To begin changing your oil, gather all necessary tools. The most important items to have are jack stands, a socket wrench set, and also a pan to drain the oil into. Once you have everything you need, turn your car on and let it run for about 10 minutes. Having the engine warmed up will allow the oil to drain a bit faster says Ashland Ford. Your garage may be the best place to change your oil. Either way, you’ll want to perform an oil change on level ground.

Next, you’ll want to crawl underneath your vehicle and locate the oil drain plug, which is most likely near the center of the engine. For the exact location, Richmond VA oil change specialists recommend checking your owner’s manual first. Once you have your oil pan underneath your plug and remove it using the socket wrench. Stay clear as you remove the plug as the oil will be hot!

Once all of the oil is drained, replace the plug and tighten with your socket wrench. Now you’ll want to replace the oil filter as well. Again consult the owner’s manual to find its location. Afterwards, use a funnel to add in your new oil. Oil capacity is generally around four or five courts and again your owner’s manual will tell you the exact measurement. Once you’ve added the new oil, Honda Parts Los Angeles recommends letting your car run for a couple minutes. Check your dipstick and add more oil if necessary. Last but not least, dispose of oil properly and bring to a recycling center or an auto body shop.

Oil changes are not complicated, but whether you do it yourself or have someone else do it, make sure you do it regularly. Also, a quality oil or synthetic oil is ideal to improve longevity.
Article Tags: You’ll Want, Owner’s Manual

About The Author

Joe Kent is a writer for TK Carsites, an automotive website design and marketing firm in Orange, CA, that specializes in working with car dealers nationwide.

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