Saturday, January 15, 2011

DIY Saturday: Doing an Oil Change

An oil change is probably the simplest automotive task that you can do on your own - no need to take your chances bringing your vehicle to a shop and probably getting ripped off.

Oil change involves three major processes, and it only requires simple tools (wrench, container for catching oil, and funnel). Shall we start?

Precautions before starting:
1. Park your vehicle in a flat and solid surface and be sure that it’s stable.
2. Don’t let the oil spill. Have the container ready to catch the old oil that you’ll drain.
3. Be sure that the engine is cold when you do the task.
4. You’ll need a new oil filter to replace the old one.

1: Drain the old oil.
·         Find the oil pan and its plug underneath your car. Open it to allow the old oil to drain. Just be sure you have the container ready to catch the oil.
·        Once all the old oil has drained, replace the plug and tighten to the correct torque specs.

2. Replace the oil filter.
·        Remove the filter (often accessed from underneath your vehicle, depending on car make and model) using a wrench and be careful not to spill the oil inside it.
·        Place the new oil filter (apply oil on the filter’s gasket) and fill it with oil – not too full.

3. Fill your engine with oil.
·        Use the funnel when filling up to avoid spill.
·        Check your manual to determine the amount of oil that your engine needs. Don’t fill it up to full capacity. After filling up, measure the oil level using a dipstick and add oil as necessary.

Doing your own oil change is not only cost saving, it’s also empowering to a vehicle owner. So if you’re someone who’s planning to start doing some of the tasks required in your vehicle so that you can avoid instances of having to bring your ride to a shop, an oil change is a good way to start.

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