It’s always nice to be able to take care of your own car. While some jobs are complicated and should be left to the pros, there are some projects you can try yourself. An oil change can be a good weekend task if you’re looking to take more control of your car maintenance. If you’ve never done it before, there are a few things to keep in mind to get the best results.
Prepare Your Space
First, you need an area to work in. Before you start changing your oil, make sure you have a clean, flat surface where you can park the car and access your tools. Practice moving around in the space to make sure everything is in easy reach.
Look for Any Leaks
Inspect the area around your car’s engine for any signs of oil leaks before you begin changing the oil. If you notice any leaks, you may need to address those issues before you change the oil. You will also want to check for leaks again once you’ve finished the oil change to make sure everything is installed correctly.
Gather Your Supplies
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Now you need all of your supplies. Start by finding out what your car needs. Each car will require an oil filter. You can get ones made for your make and model, such as a Mitsubishi Outlander oil filter. If you’re not sure which filter to get, check your manual. You can also use online tools from your local auto parts store.
You also need to get the right oil. There are standard and synthetic varieties to choose from. Your engine type and mileage will determine what you need.
Drain the Old Oil and Change the Filter
Locate the oil drain plug under your car and place the drain pan underneath it. Use a socket wrench to loosen the plug and let the old oil drain out. Make sure to have a drip pan or some type of container to catch the oil for easier disposal or recycling.
Once the old oil has drained out, remove the old oil filter and replace it with a new one, such as a 2017 Honda Accord oil filter. Make sure to lubricate the new filter’s gasket with fresh oil before installing it.
Add the New Oil
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With your new 2005 Ford F150 oil filter or whatever filter you need in place, you can add the fresh oil. Double-check that the drain plug is tight and use a funnel to pour in your oil. Follow your car’s manual to add the correct amount. Too much or too little oil can be bad for your car. Once you’re done, clean up everything by wiping down your tools, putting them away and disposing of the old oil and filter.
With your oil change all wrapped up, you can feel confident that you are doing the right things to keep your engine running well. You don’t have to be nervous about your oil change as long as you prepare yourself with the right supplies.