Changing the oil and oil filter in a car is an easy DIY project that requires little time and minimal automotive skill. I have done it many times myself and here’s how you can do it too:
Supplies needed
In order to complete this project you will need the following items: a socket wrench set, a metal band type filter wrench, a bottom fitting filter wrench, a drain pan, funnel, heat resistant gloves, clean rags, old newspapers, scraper, screwdriver, set of vehicle ramps, a new oil filter and ten quarts of motor oil.
Changing the oil
Start by driving the vehicle up onto the ramps and allowing the engine to run until it reaches normal operating temperature. Doing so helps the old oil flow more freely into the drip pan. Turn the engine off and then slide under the vehicle. Be careful not to let your bare skin come into contact with the heated undercarriage. Place the newspapers and the drip pan under the drain plug. Grab the socket wrench set and don the gloves. Use the socket wrench to remove the drain plug and allow the oil to run into the drip pan. Once the oil has stopped running out of the engine, use a clean rag to wipe the drain plug free of any residue. Re-install the clean drain plug and move on to the filter removal.
Changing the oil filter
Using the two filter wrenches remove the filter. If the filter is seized and can’t be removed with just the wrenches try skewering it as close to engine as possible with a sharp screwdriver. Once the screwdriver is completely through the oil filter, use it as a t-bar and try removing the filter again. After the filter is removed use the scraper to remove all traces of the old gasket. Wipe the area clean and then use your fingers to apply oil to the new gasket before putting it into place. With the new gasket in position, use your hands to attach the new filter. Avoid over tightening the filter. Afterwards, using a funnel, slowly add the new motor oil into the engine through the oil filler cap located in the rocker arm cover. As you are doing so, stop periodically to check the oil level in the engine so you don’t accidentally over fill it. Once the new oil has been added into the engine all that is left to accomplish is the clean up.
My husband and I have a history of completing DIY projects on both out home and our vehicles.
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