How To Change Your Car's Oil In Your Own Garage Or Driveway

One of the easiest things to do to keep your car in good condition is to change the oil. It will keep the engine in great shape and save you money on future repair bills that a poorly kept engine will require.

Gather Your Supplies

You will need the following items:

• Scrap Cardboard
• Oil Filter Wrench
• Motor Oil (Check your owners manual to see which weight of motor oil to get)
• Pan To Collect Old Motor Oil
• Adjustable Wrench
• New Oil Filter

Step 1: Lay Cardboard On The Ground

Oil will stain your garage floor or your driveway, so it's important to lay cardboard underneath the drain plug. This will catch any splatters of oil and keep the ground clean. Cardboard is preferable to old newspaper or paper towels because it is thicker and will not let any oil seep through.

Step 2: Place The Pan Underneath The Drain Plug And Empty The Old Oil

You should place the catch pan underneath the drain plug. Take the adjustable wrench and loosen the plug until you can take it off with your fingers. Be prepared for oil to come pouring out, so don't remove the plug until you have everything in place. Let the old oil pour out until it runs dry. Return the drain plug and tighten it back up with the adjustable wrench.

Step 3: Remove The Old Oil Filter

Use the oil filter wrench and remove the old oil filter. Discard it in the trash. When you change your oil, always change the oil filter. It's no use putting clean oil in the engine if it will be filtered through a clogged up, filthy old filter.

Step 4: Place The New Oil Filter On

Open the container of new motor oil and pour a small amount, about a thimble full, onto the new oil filter. This is done to make sure the new oil filter seal is well lubricated and won't crack when it is placed onto the car. Tighten the new oil filter so that it is snug on the engine block.

Step 5: Add New Oil

Open the oil cap on the engine block. Most car manufactures place a symbol on the oil cap to indicate it is for oil. The symbol will often be that of an oil can with a drop of oil coming out of the spout.

Step 6: Discard The Used Oil

Used motor oil needs to be discarded of in the appropriate place. You can't pour it down your sink, or throw it out in the garbage. The best thing to do is to contact local gas stations or auto supply stores. Many of these locations collect used oil for free.Take the oil from the catch pan and pour it into the empty oil container that you have from the new oil you used. Bring this to the collection center that offers oil changes.