Change Oil

Want to know the easiest way to extend the life of your car? That’s right, changing

the oil every 3000 miles is the most important thing you could ever do. And now, you can do it yourself. You can

change the oil and filter in you and your spouse’s car for about $12 and 30 minutes of your time.

 

1. Buy yourself a case (12 quarts) of motor oil and two filters from any local store selling automotive

items. They will have manuals to help you choose the proper filter for your car. As for the oil, buy the cheapest

brand available. BUT, make sure the oil is API (American Petroleum Institute) certified. All certified oils will

say so on the label.

 

2. Grab an old pair of jeans and crawl under the front of your car. You will notice a relatively large tank with

a bolt protruding from the bottom or side of it. That’s the oil tank.

 

3. Place a shallow pan (wide enough to hold 4 or 5 quarts) under the discharge bolt of the tank.

 

4. Remove the bolt making sure not to round the edges. If you do round the edges of the bolt, use a vise grip in

the future.

 

5. Drain all of the oil from the tank. It will easily flow out into the pan you placed under the tank.

 

6. Screw the bolt back in, making sure it is good and tight.

 

7. Now, locate the oil filter. It is normally within easy access somewhere on the side of your engine.

 

8. You will need a filter wrench to remove the filter. They are pretty inexpensive.

 

9. Place the filter wrench around the filter, and gently rotate in a counter-clockwise direction.

 

10. Remove the filter. There is oil in the filter, so try to pour it inside the pan under the car.

 

11. Screw in the new filter. This time rotating in a clockwise direction. DO NOT over-tighten. Once the filter

makes contact with the engine, only rotate an additional 3/4 turn.

 

12. Pour the new oil into the engine. The cap is located on the top of your engine, usually marked “oil.”

Check your owners manual for the proper amount, normally 4-5 quarts.

 

13. After you add all the new oil, check the dipstick to assure the proper amount has been added.

 

14. Check under the car for any leaks.

 

15. Start the engine and check for leaks again.

 

16. Dispose of the oil at your local gas station or auto parts store. NEVER throw used oil in drains or anywhere

else where it is harmful to the environment.

 

17. Note the mileage on the car and repeat every 3000 miles.