How to Change Your Oil

1. Step 1: Jack It Up, Open It Up. First, you'll want to lift the car high enough to give yourself room to work under it.
2. Step 2: Unplug It, Drain It.
3. Step 3: Off With the Old Filter.
4. Step 4: Drain Plug in, Filter On.
5. Step 5: Fill It Back Up with Oil.
6. Step 6: Check the Oil Level, Check for Leaks.

What you will need may vary between vehicles, but some of the most common oil change equipment and supplies are listed here:

1. Motor oil + oil filter.
2. Wheel ramps + chocks.
3. Safety glasses + gloves.
4. Ratchet + socket set.
5. Oil filter wrench + torque wrench.
6. Funnel + oil pan.
7. Clean rags + newspaper.

Some people like to do DIY oil changes to save money and learn more about their car. The process is relatively simple and takes anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your experience level and comfort with the process.

When it comes to DIY oil changes, those savings might not be. Yes, you will likely save a few bucks, but at a greater expense, particularly if you're a novice. Even if you invest in the equipment and materials needed to do your own oil changes, if you make a mistake, it'll cost you.

An Oil Change is the act of removing the used oil in your engine and replacing it with new, clean oil. Over time, oil breaks down and gets dirty. These factors make oil much less slippery and less effective at their job of lubricating engine parts.

How to Change Your Oil

1. Step 1: Jack It Up, Open It Up. First, you'll want to lift the car high enough to give yourself room to work under it.
2. Step 2: Unplug It, Drain It.
3. Step 3: Off With the Old Filter.
4. Step 4: Drain Plug in, Filter On.
5. Step 5: Fill It Back Up with Oil.
6. Step 6: Check the Oil Level, Check for Leaks.

They will generally include the following items:

• Engine oil, in quart bottles (in the correct viscosity and quantity based on your vehicle's owner's manual)
• A high-grade oil filter that meets, or exceeds, the OEM requirements for your vehicle.
• The correct sized crush washer for your vehicle.
• A disposable funnel.

In the past, cars typically needed an oil change every 3,000 miles, but modern lubricants now allow for a much longer interval between services - from 5,000 to 7,500 miles and even up to 15,000 miles if your car uses full-synthetic motor oil. Let's take a look at oil change intervals for older and newer cars.

If you're changing your oil more frequently than necessary, it won't help your car. It doesn't harm it either, but you're wasting money, time and resources. Keep in mind, too, that throwing away oil that's still usable puts a strain on the environment.

Getting your oil changed regularly is crucial for maintaining the health of your car. This will not only prevent your engine from burning up, but also ensures good gas mileage, smooth running, and less downtime at the repair shop.

So, is it cheaper to change your own oil? By doing this task yourself, you'll save between $25 and $75 per oil change, depending on the type of oil and filter you use.

Seven Benefits of Getting Routine Oil Changes

• Engine Efficiency. Getting your oil changed regularly not only keeps your engine clean, but it additionally boosts its performance.
• Better Mileage.
• Longer Engine Life.
• Eco-Friendly.
• Engine Protection.
• Cools Engine Components.
• Easily Pass the Vehicle Emission Test.

There are generally four types of oil to choose from: conventional, synthetic, high mileage, and blended oil. Each has its own unique set of properties, advantages, and drawbacks, so it's essential to understand their differences to make an informed decision.