free auto repair how to guide
Changing your Carâs Oil: A Do-it-Yourself Guide
Changing your oil is easy. And, while you usually have to wait for hours when you take your vehicle to the auto repair shop for an oil change, doing the job on your own at home only takes about 30 minutes. And it’s free. Â
Getting Ready
The first thing to do is to make sure your car’s engine is not hot. Wait for it to be completely cooled off before you start. Work on a flat surface, as it is safer, especially when jacking up the car. And put a piece of cardboard under the engine to prevent the oil from staining the ground. The materials required for an oil change: oil filter wrench, oil catch container, funnel, new oil filter, new old, and an old rag.
Draining the old oil
Next, you’ll need to drain the old oil from the oil pan, located under the engine. Notice that the oil is held by a drain plug. But before you pull the plug, put the oil catch container under the pan, so that you can catch the oil. The grill on the oil catch is there so that the plug doesn’t fall through. After you’ve drained all the oil, put the plug back into place, making sure it is not too tight. Save the old oil for recycling.
Remove old oil filter
Take out the old oil filter using the oil filter wrench. You’ll have to twist counterclockwise. Beware of slippage. On most cars, you’ll have to reach the oil filter from below the engine.
Install new oil filter
Prepare the new filter for installation by lubricating the casket at the end of it with new oil. Fill up the filter 2/3 of the way with oil and screw it into place, clockwise and only as tight as it will go using one hand. Too tight, and it will damage the filter.
Refill the engine
Unscrew the oil fill cap at the top of the engine. Insert the funnel and pour in the new oil. Only pour ¾ of what the owner’s manual says the engine can hold.
Check oil levels
Last but not least, check to make sure the oil is at the right level. Put the oil cap back on, and you’re finished. You have one basic auto repair procedure out of the way.
For more great tips and facts on how to manage your car from a San Diego auto repair service, take a peek at http://www.robertsautoservice.com
About the Author
Ryan Frank is a 23 year writer and blogger living in San Diego, CA
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