Little Known Way to Save Money on Your Car Oil

Imagine if you could save anywhere from $10 to $20 dollars on your usually very expensive oil change doing something very simple. Interested? Read on to find out this little known way to save money on your car oil.

Note that when changing the oil on your car you need to prepare with some supplies. You will need the following: a jack, the correct size wrench or ratchet, oil filter, oil, short bucket, rag, funnel, and a big piece of cardboard.

Why Changing Your Car’s Oil Yourself is the Smart Move

Taking your car to a mechanic for an oil change is a routine maintenance task that many drivers delegate. While convenient, it often comes with a price tag that includes labor costs and potential upsells. However, by understanding the process and dedicating a small amount of time, you can bypass these charges and significantly reduce your vehicle maintenance expenses. This guide will walk you through a straightforward method to change your car’s oil, saving you money and giving you a greater sense of self-sufficiency.

Preparing for Your DIY Oil Change

Before you even think about getting under your car, it’s crucial to gather all the necessary supplies. Having everything on hand will ensure a smooth and efficient oil change. Here’s a more detailed look at what you’ll need:

• Car Jack and Jack Stands: Safety is paramount. A good quality car jack is essential for lifting your vehicle, and jack stands are non-negotiable for ensuring its stable support while you work underneath. Never rely solely on a jack.
• The Right Wrench or Socket Set: You’ll need a wrench or socket that perfectly fits your car’s oil drain plug. Consult your car’s owner’s manual if you’re unsure of the size.
• New Oil Filter: Ensure you purchase the correct oil filter model for your specific car make and model. Your owner’s manual or an auto parts store can help you find the exact fit.
• Motor Oil: Different cars require different types and viscosities of motor oil. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended oil type and the amount your vehicle needs. Using the wrong oil can be detrimental to your engine’s performance and longevity.
• Drain Pan/Bucket: A container with enough capacity to hold all the old oil is vital. Look for one that is specifically designed for oil changes, as they often have a wider opening and are less likely to spill.
• Funnel: A clean funnel is necessary for pouring the new oil into the engine without making a mess.
• Rags or Paper Towels: Keep plenty of these on hand for wiping up spills and cleaning tools.
• Cardboard or Drop Cloth: While not strictly essential for the oil fluid itself, a large piece of cardboard or a drop cloth is highly recommended to protect your driveway or garage floor from any accidental drips or spills.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from oil and dirt with a pair of disposable gloves.
• Safety Glasses: Prevent oil from splashing into your eyes by wearing safety glasses.

The Step-by-Step Oil Change Process

Once you have all your supplies ready, it’s time to get started. Follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Warm Up Your Engine

Start by warming up your vehicle. Driving around the block once or twice, which will heat up your engine a little bit. A vital part of changing oil. The oil must first be warmed up otherwise you will have trouble getting it out. Warm oil flows more easily, making it easier to drain completely. This ensures that more of the old, dirty oil is removed from the engine, leading to a more effective oil change.

Step 2: Safely Jack Up Your Vehicle

Then, jack up your vehicle, being sure to follow all safety precautions. Make sure to find a strong point on the bottom of your vehicle before jacking it up. An axle is the best place. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Once raised, securely place jack stands under the designated support points (usually on the frame or unibody). Lower the vehicle slowly onto the jack stands, ensuring it is stable and balanced. Wiggle the vehicle gently to confirm it’s secure before proceeding.

Step 3: Drain the Old Oil

The first thing to do is to drain out all the old oil. Look under your vehicle and locate the oil drain plug, which is usually one of the only ‘plugs’ in view. Generally, this plug will be located right around the middle of the engine, on the oil pan. It’s typically a bolt head. Position your large piece of cardboard or drop cloth underneath the oil pan to catch any potential drips or spills. Then, place your short bucket or drain pan directly underneath the oil drain plug. Now, using your wrench or socket, carefully begin to unscrew the oil drain plug. Be prepared for the oil to start flowing out once the plug is loosened. It’s best to unscrew it the rest of the way by hand, keeping your hand clear to avoid hot oil. Allow the oil to drain completely. This can take several minutes; wait until the oil is dripping out very slowly.

Step 4: Replace the Drain Plug and Filter

Once the oil has finished draining, carefully screw the oil drain plug back into place by hand to avoid cross-threading, and then tighten it securely with your wrench. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the oil pan. Next, locate the oil filter. It’s usually a cylindrical canister screwed onto the engine block. Place your drain pan underneath it, as a small amount of residual oil will likely spill out when you remove it. Unscrew the old oil filter, again being careful of any hot oil. Once removed, take your new oil filter and apply a thin film of new oil to the rubber gasket on top. This helps create a better seal. Screw the new filter on by hand until it’s snug, then give it about a three-quarter turn more. Do not overtighten.

Step 5: Add New Motor Oil

When you’re done cleaning up, you can start putting in new oil! Find out how many liters of oil your vehicle takes and pour it in with the funnel through the spout labeled for oil on top of your engine, beneath the hood of your vehicle. Most vehicles have a marked oil fill cap, often with an oil can symbol. Carefully pour in the specified amount of oil. It’s a good idea to start with slightly less than the full amount, then check the dipstick. Use the dipstick to check and make sure the oil level is high enough. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and pull it out again. The oil level should be between the “min” and “max” marks. Add more oil in small increments if needed, rechecking the dipstick after each addition. Once the tank is full, replace the oil cap securely and close the hood. Lower your vehicle back to the ground and remove the jack stands.

Step 6: Final Checks and Cleanup

Start your engine and let it run for a minute or two. Check under the vehicle for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter. Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes, then recheck the oil level on the dipstick one last time to ensure it’s still within the proper range. Make sure to clean up any messes that were made with your cleaning rag.

Conclusion

Properly disposing of all the old oil and the oil filter is a critical step. Most auto parts stores and service centers will accept used motor oil for recycling. Many also accept used oil filters. Don’t pour it down the drain or put it in the regular trash. And guess what? You’ve just saved $10-$20 by changing your car oil yourself, and it doesn’t seem too hard, right? This simple maintenance task not only saves you money but also gives you a better understanding of your vehicle. By performing this yourself, you’re taking an active role in protecting your car’s engine and ensuring its longevity, all while keeping more money in your pocket.

If you liked this article, you might like Save Money on Your Fuel With These Tire Maintenance Tips, another article I have written.