How to Put Oil in Your Car

Table of Contents

As a car owner, one of the essential skills you should have is knowing how to put oil in your car. Regular oil changes help keep your engine running smoothly, and it’s an easy DIY task that can save you time and money. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of putting oil in your car step-by-step.

Introduction

Checking the owner's manual for the right type of oil is important. — Checking the owner’s manual for the right type of oil is important.

Before we dive into the steps, let’s discuss why it’s crucial to know how to put oil in your car. Engine oil is vital in lubricating the engine’s moving parts, reducing wear and tear, and keeping the engine cool. Without engine oil, your car’s engine could seize up, leading to expensive repairs or even engine replacement.

It’s recommended to check your car’s oil level every month and change it every three to six months, depending on your car’s make and model. Regular oil changes can help maintain your car’s performance, improve fuel efficiency, and increase its lifespan.

Check Your Car’s Owner’s Manual

The first step in putting oil in your car is to check your car’s owner’s manual. The manual contains essential information about your car, including the type of oil your car needs and how much oil your car requires. Using the wrong type of oil or adding too much or too little oil can damage your engine.

Once you’ve located the section on oil changes in your car’s manual, find the recommended viscosity, or thickness, of the oil. The viscosity is denoted by a combination of letters and numbers, such as 5W-30 or 10W-40. The first number indicates the oil’s thickness when cold, while the second number represents its thickness when hot.

Next, check how much oil your car requires. The amount of oil your car needs varies depending on the make and model, and the oil pan’s size. You can find this information in the manual, and it’s usually expressed in quarts or liters.

Gathering this information before you start the oil change process will help you purchase the correct type and amount of oil for your car.

Gather the Required Tools

Now that you know the type and amount of oil your car needs, it’s time to gather the required tools. You’ll need an oil filter wrench, a funnel, a new oil filter, and new engine oil.

The oil filter wrench is used to remove the old oil filter, while the funnel makes it easier to pour the new oil into the engine without spilling. The new oil filter and engine oil can be purchased at an auto parts store or online.

It’s essential to use high-quality oil and filters that meet your car’s specifications. Cheap oil or filters may not provide the necessary protection, and they may break down faster, leading to engine damage.

Next, let’s move on to locating the oil filter and oil pan.

Gather the Required Tools

Now that you have the necessary information about the type and amount of oil your car needs, it’s time to gather the required tools. You’ll need an oil filter wrench, a funnel, a new oil filter, and new engine oil.

Locate the Oil Filter and Oil Pan

The oil filter and oil pan are usually located under the car’s engine. To locate them, park your car on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Turn off the engine and wait for it to cool down before proceeding.

The oil pan is a flat metal pan located at the bottom of the engine. It’s usually black or silver and has a drain plug at the bottom. The oil filter is a cylindrical shape located near the oil pan. It’s usually white, black, or orange and has a threaded top.

To remove the old oil filter, place the oil filter wrench around the filter and turn it counterclockwise until it comes loose. Be careful not to spill any oil that may be trapped in the filter.

Next, locate the drain plug on the oil pan and place a drain pan underneath it. Use a socket wrench to remove the drain plug and drain the old oil into the pan. Be careful not to touch the hot oil, as it can cause severe burns.

Once the old oil has drained, replace the drain plug and wipe any oil that may have spilled. Then, it’s time to install the new oil filter and add the new oil. We’ll cover these steps in the next sections.

Add New Oil and Filter

With the old oil drained, it’s time to add the new oil and filter. First, install the new oil filter by lubricating the gasket with new oil and screwing it onto the engine by hand. Use the oil filter wrench to tighten it another 3/4 turn.

Next, remove the oil cap on the engine and insert the funnel. Slowly pour the new oil into the engine, using the dipstick to check the oil level periodically. Once you’ve added the recommended amount of oil, replace the oil cap and remove the funnel.

It’s essential to dispose of the old oil and filter properly. Local auto parts stores or recycling centers often accept used oil and filters for recycling. Never pour used oil down the drain or in the trash, as it can harm the environment.

Final Checks

After adding the new oil and filter, it’s important to perform some final checks. First, run the engine for a few minutes to circulate the new oil and ensure there are no leaks. Then, turn off the engine and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle.

Using the dipstick, check the oil level, making sure it’s within the recommended range. If the level is low, add more oil until it reaches the recommended level.

Finally, inspect the engine and surrounding area for any oil leaks. Check the oil filter, drain plug, and oil pan for any signs of oil. If you notice any leaks, tighten the filter or drain plug or consult a mechanic if necessary.

Congratulations, you’ve successfully changed the oil in your car! Regular oil changes are essential in maintaining your car’s performance and extending its lifespan. Remember to check your car’s owner’s manual for recommended oil change intervals and follow these steps to ensure a smooth and hassle-free oil change experience.