Learning how to change oil is a valuable skill for 2025. This guide simplifies the engine oil change process. First, we cover essential tools. Next, we explain safety steps. In addition, we discuss proper disposal. Therefore, you can save money easily. Finally, we answer common questions. Read on to master this skill.
Do you want to save extra money? Or maybe you want to learn a useful skill. In short, learning how to change oil is the best start. For many, the engine seems scary. However, the process is very simple. In fact, doing a car oil change is satisfying.
Your engine needs clean oil. But heat breaks it down. Then, it turns into sludge. If you wait, your engine might die. Therefore, knowing how to change oil is vital.
In this post, we break it down. To clarify, we use simple words. Above all, we want you to be confident. So, let’s learn how to change oil today.
Why You Should Tackle This DIY Project
First, let’s talk about cash. For example, how much is an oil change at Walmart? Prices are high in 2025. Also, shops charge for labor. But doing a motor oil change at home is cheap. That is to say, you only pay for oil.
Secondly, you control the quality. When you go to a shop, they rush. Sometimes, they use bad filters. However, you can choose the best parts. As a result, the job is done right.
Lastly, it saves time. Usually, driving to a shop takes an hour. Then, you wait in line. Meanwhile, you can finish at home in 30 minutes. Consequently, you save your weekend.
What You Need: Essential Tools
Before starting, gather your supplies. After all, you need the right gear. Here is what you need for an oil and filter change.
- Car Ramps: Specifically, car ramps for oil change tasks are safest.
- Wrench: Usually, a socket wrench removes the plug.
- Oil Filter Wrench: To clarify, this removes the old filter.
- Drain Pan: Ideally, get an oil drain pan for the liquid.
- Funnel: For instance, this stops messy spills.
- Gloves: Finally, keep your hands clean.
Also, buy your oil first. Otherwise, you might get stuck.
Choosing the Right Blood for Your Engine
One big question is, what oil does my car take? Certainly, this is important. Because the wrong oil hurts the engine. Therefore, read your manual.
Understanding Viscosity:
You will see numbers like 5W-30. To clarify, this is the thickness. Nowadays, cars in 2025 use thin oil. Consequently, this helps gas mileage.
Synthetic vs. Conventional:
First, there is conventional oil. But it breaks down fast. On the other hand, synthetic oil is better. Because it resists heat, it lasts longer. Also, check how much oil my car needs. Usually, it is 5 quarts. But check to be sure.
Safety First: Preparing the Vehicle
Safety is key when learning how to change oil. Since cars are heavy, be careful.
First, park on a flat spot. For example, a driveway is perfect. Never park on a hill. Next, pull the parking brake. Specifically, pull it hard. After that, use wheel chocks. As a result, the car stays put.
Finally, let the engine cool. However, warm oil is best. So, aim for warmth, not heat.
Step-by-Step: How to Change Oil in Car
Now, let’s do the work. Please follow these steps. In short, this is how to do an oil change.
Step 1: Warm Up the Engine
First, run the car for a minute. As noted, cold oil is thick. However, warm oil flows fast. Consequently, the dirt drains out.
Step 2: Lift the Vehicle
Next, you need room. So, drive onto your car ramps. Then, put the car in park. Most importantly, block the rear wheels.
Step 3: Drain the Old Oil
After that, find the pan. Then, put your drain pan under it. Next, loosen the plug.
- Turn it left.
- Then, pull it away fast.
- Meanwhile, let the oil drain.
Subsequently, wait five minutes. Once it stops, wipe the hole. Finally, put the plug back. But do not make it too tight.
Step 4: The Oil Filter Change
Now, find the filter. Usually, it is a metal can. First, move your pan under it. Then, use your wrench to spin it off.
Before the new one goes on, use a trick. Specifically, put oil on the rubber ring. As a result, it seals better. Finally, screw it on by hand. However, do not use a wrench. This is a key rule of how to change oil.
Step 5: How to Add Oil to Car
Next, open the hood. Then, take off the oil cap. After that, put it in the funnel. To clarify, this is how to put oil in car engines.
Slowly, pour the new oil. For example, pour 4 quarts first. Then, check the level. Because it is hard to remove oil, go slow.
Step 6: Check the Level
Finally, check the dipstick. First, wipe it clean. Then, dip it again. Next, look at the line. Ideally, it is at the top mark.
If low, add more. But if it’s good, close the cap. Then, start the car. Check for leaks. If it is dry, you win. In other words, you know how to change oil.
How Often to Change Oil?
Check how often to get oil change services. In the past, we said 3,000 miles. However, that is old news.
In 2025, cars are better. Therefore, most go 7,500 miles. In fact, some go 10,000 miles. Changing car oil too soon wastes cash. But waiting too long is bad.
Signs you need a change:
- First, the oil is black.
- Second, the engine is loud.
- Third, the light is on.
Cleaning Up: How to Get Rid of Oil
Now, you have dirty oil. So, you must dump it right.
- Never use the sink.
- Also, never use the trash.
Instead, use an old jug. Then, go to an auto store. For instance, AutoZone takes it. Consequently, they recycle it. This is part of how to change oil.
Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Shop
Let’s check the price. To sum up, is it worth it?
| Expense Item | DIY Cost (Approx.) | Shop Cost (Approx.) |
| 5 Quarts Oil | $30 | $0 |
| Oil Filter | $10 | $0 |
| Labor | $0 | $60 |
| Total | $40 | $100+ |
As shown, you save money. Especially with synthetic oil. Since shops charge extra, you win. When you know how to change oil, you keep the cash.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, things happen. Here are easy fixes.
The Drain Plug is Stuck
Don’t panic. Instead, use a big wrench. Also, tap it lightly. As a result, it loosens.
Leaking After Change
First, check the filter. Did you leave the old ring? If so, it leaks. Therefore, check the gasket.
Stripped Threads
If you spin it too hard, it breaks. Consequently, it won’t seal. In that case, buy a new plug.
Conclusion
In conclusion, you can now change oil. To summarize, we listed the tools. Also, we walked through the steps. Changing oil is great. Rather, it is manly and smart.
Whether you have a truck or car, it is the same. Even if you call it a cambio de aceite, do it right. Always check your levels.
So, go get your tools. Then, use your car ramps. Ultimately, your car will last. To sum up, knowing how to change oil is power.
Start this weekend. Certainly, you can do it!
FAQs
Most modern cars need an engine oil change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. However, always check your owner’s manual. Synthetic oils can often last up to 10,000 miles between services.
No, adding oil only tops off the level. It does not remove the dirty sludge or the clogged filter. You must drain the old liquid to properly protect your engine.
Ideally, the engine should be warm, not hot. Run the car for two minutes. Warm oil flows like water and carries dirt out, whereas cold oil is thick and slow.
Doing it yourself usually costs between $30 and $45 for oil and a filter. In contrast, a shop might charge over $80, especially if your car requires full synthetic oil.
The oil will turn into thick sludge. Consequently, it stops lubricating the moving parts. This causes friction and overheating, which eventually leads to complete and expensive engine failure.
