 |
| Change Oil and Filter |
|
|
Changing your oil and filter is one of the simplest car-care operations you can perform. Not
only can you save money but changing oil regularly can be one of the most
beneficial services you car can receive.
Most vehicle manufacturers recommend oil replacement usually every 3,000 to 10,000 miles or
more frequently if it's stop and go driving. To be sure, consult your car's
recommendation. There are also some extended life motor oils available that will
go well beyond normal motor oil life. Even so, be sure to consult your car
warranty requirements for compliance.
- Raise front of car and support it on jack stands unless working clearance under car is
adequate. Place pan beneath drain plug. Loosen plug with wrench, then remove
plug by hand.
- Let old oil drain into pan. Clean drain plug and washer with rags. Some plugs are magnetized
to trap metal particles.
- The old filter must be loosened with a filter wrench. After loosening, it should be removed
carefully by hand so that no oil is spilled. The gasket of the new filter is
then lubricated with clean engine oil, and the filter is threaded on by hand.
Follow the filter manufacturer's instructions for proper tightening procedures.
- Replace plug and washer as soon as the oil has drained. Start plug by hand and tighten it as far
as possible. When plug is seated, tighten it another half-turn with a wrench.
- Find oil filler, add amount of oil given in owners manual, 1 quart less if filter is not changed.
Start engine and check for leaks at drain plug. Lower car. Check oil level;
adjust if necessary.
- Start engine and check for oil leaks. (Note; the engine oil warning light might stay on for a few
seconds.) Stop engine and check oil level.
TIPS
Don't over tighten oil filter and be sure old oil filter gasket has not stuck to engine. It
is best to always change the oil filter. A used oil filter contains about a
quart of dirty oil. Reusing it quickly adds its load of contaminants to the
fresh oil. Check where you can deposit your old oil. Many states and local
governments have strict laws on disposing of waste oil.
|
|