7 Simple Tips To Change Your Car Oil

You're a car owner, and you know that changing your car's oil is one of the most important things you can do to keep it running smoothly. If you have basic auto repair knowledge and suitable materials, changing your car oil is a cost-effective, straightforward process that can be done at home.
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While it may seem intimidating for people with limited automotive experience, there are simple steps that anyone can follow to change their oil—and luckily, it's a simple process that anyone can do on their own with the right know-how.

1. Choose the Right Oil and Oil Filter
   When it comes time to change your car's oil, one of the most important decisions you'll make is what type of oil to use, be sure to consult your car's owner's manual, as different makes and models require different types of oil.
   
   It's also important to choose the right oil filter. Again, consult your car's owner's manual, as different filters are designed for different types of engines. A low-quality filter can do more harm than good, so it's important to choose wisely.
   
   
2. Park Your Car on a Flat Surface
   For this next step, you will want to park your car on a flat surface. Jacking up your car on an incline can cause the oil to flow unevenly and might end up spilling all over the place. Not what you want.
   
   
3. Use a Car Jack
   To change the oil in your car, you'll need to use a jack to get it off the ground first. This can be done with a car jack or with ramps if you have them. Place the jack or ramps under the car's frame, so the vehicle is raised off the ground. Read your car's owner's manual for safety instructions and determine the best place to put the jack or ramps.
   
   
4. Remove the Drain Plug and Drain the Oil
   Once your tools and supplies are ready, the next step is to remove the oil pan drain plug. This part is essential since it allows the oil to be released from the engine. To do this, use a ratchet and socket to unscrew the drain plug from under the car. Place a container underneath where you’ll be draining the oil, and make sure it’s large enough to hold all of the oil. 
   
   Afterward, let the oil drain out before re-installing the drain plug and tightening it securely with a wrench or ratchet. Make sure to check for any leaks afterward.
   
   
5. Clean and Replace the Oil Filter
   The next step in changing your car's oil is to clean and replace the oil filter. This is an important step, as a clogged oil filter can cause your engine to overheat and damage your auto. To start, locate the oil filter, usually found near the bottom of the machine. Then, using a wrench, unscrew it and catch any excess oil with a pan.
   
   Finally, replace the filter with a new one and use the wrench to tighten it. Once you’ve finished, look around for leaks or drips before moving on to the next step.
   
   
6. Replace the Drain Plug and Refill it with New Oil
   Once the old oil has been removed, it's time to replace the drain plug. First, make sure the plug is clean and free of debris. Then use a rag to clean the threads on the pan and apply some fresh oil to the threads of the new plug before screwing it in.
   
   Be sure to tighten the drain plug by hand until it's snug, then using a torque wrench, tighten it to its specified torque rating. It’s important not to over-tighten, or you could damage or strip the threads.
   
   Finally, refill your engine with new oil by pouring it slowly into the fill hole until you reach your specified level on your dipstick. Double-check your dipstick reading before closing up your fill cap and taking your car for a test drive!
   
   
7. Start Your Car and Check for Leaks
   Once you're finished with all the steps and have put back the oil filter and the drain plug, start your car to ensure everything is working as it should. Check that there are no leaks around the drain plug or filter. After running it for a few minutes, check your oil dipstick again—it should read full.
   
   When you shut down the engine, check underneath your vehicle to ensure no oil has pooled on the ground; if so, you’ll need to double-check for any loose nuts or bolts.
   
   And lastly, remember that after some time—usually about 10 miles—you will want to recheck your oil level. This ensures no air has been trapped in the filter and dislodged any excess oil.

Don't Get Left in the Dust. Change Your Oil Now!
It’s easy to forget about our car’s oil. We only have to think about it every few months when we get the reminder in the mail or see the sign as we drive past the shop. But if we want our cars to keep running smoothly and avoid potential engine damage down the line, it’s important to stay on top of this maintenance task.

At Roper Insurance Services, we do our best to make sure that our clients are well-protected with affordable and comprehensive policies. We make sure to go the extra mile to help you with your needs. To learn more about how we can help you, please contact our agency at (828) 697-6709 or Click Here to request a free quote. Topics and coverage discussed in this article are not guaranteed, consult with your agents to determine what your policy does and does not cover. We are more than happy to help!