Change Engine Oil & Filter
Keep your engine alive — the most important DIY job.
Tools you'll need
- New oil (check owner's manual)
- Oil filter
- Drain pan
- Socket wrench
- Funnel
- Jack & stands
Step-by-step
- 1
Warm the engine
Run the engine 2–3 minutes. Warm oil drains faster and carries more contaminants out.
- 2
Lift the vehicle
Jack the front up and place jack stands under the frame. Never work under a car on a jack alone.
- 3
Drain old oil
Place drain pan under the oil pan. Unscrew the drain plug and let it fully drain (about 5 minutes).
- 4
Replace drain plug
Wipe the plug clean, replace the crush washer if equipped, and reinstall snug — do not overtighten.
- 5
Swap the filter
Unscrew the old oil filter (it will be full of oil). Lightly oil the new filter's gasket and hand-tighten the new filter.
- 6
Add new oil
Lower the car. Open the oil cap and pour the correct grade and amount through a funnel.
- 7
Check level
Run engine 30 seconds, shut off, wait 2 minutes, then check the dipstick. Top off to the FULL mark.
- 8
Dispose properly
Pour used oil into a sealed container and take it to an auto parts store for free recycling.