Contents
How to Drain Oil from a Car Engine
Materials you will need:
- Oil drain pan
- Funnel
- Wrench
- New oil filter
- New oil
- Rags
Safety precautions:
- Park your car on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Allow the engine to cool down for at least 30 minutes before starting any work.
- Wear gloves and safety glasses when handling hot oil.
Step-by-step instructions:
- Locate the oil drain plug. It is usually a bolt located on the bottom of the oil pan.
- Place the oil drain pan under the oil drain plug.
- Use the wrench to loosen the oil drain plug. Be careful not to overtighten it.
- Allow the oil to drain into the oil drain pan.
- Once the oil has drained completely, replace the oil drain plug and tighten it securely.
- Locate the oil filter. It is usually a cylindrical-shaped component located near the oil pan.
- Use the wrench to loosen the oil filter. Be careful not to overtighten it.
- Remove the old oil filter and discard it.
- Apply a thin layer of new oil to the gasket of the new oil filter.
- Screw the new oil filter onto the engine by hand. Once it is hand-tight, use the wrench to tighten it another 3/4 of a turn.
- Add new oil to the engine. The amount of oil you need will vary depending on the make and model of your car. Refer to your owner’s manual for the correct amount.
- Use the funnel to pour the new oil into the engine.
- Replace the oil cap.
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.
- Check for any leaks.
- Dispose of the old oil and oil filter properly.
Tips:
- If you are not comfortable performing this task yourself, you can take your car to a mechanic.
- It is important to change your oil regularly. The frequency of oil changes will vary depending on the make and model of your car, as well as your driving habits. Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended oil change interval.
- Using high-quality oil and an oil filter will help to protect your engine and extend its life.