Performing an oil change at home can save money and time while being more convenient. Choosing to perform an oil change is also smart as it can extend the life of the car. Here at Peninsula Auto Clinic, we have over 25 years of experience with working on cars, performing a variety of Car Service jobs. This includes oil changes where we understand the quickest and most effective methods.
To perform an oil change in four simple steps, follow this simple and safe method:
- Jack the car and lower it to pull out the oil plug
- Remove the oil filter along with the rubber gasket
- Drain the existing oil then add the new oil to the engine
- Reinstall all the parts and test the oil levels
Changing the Oil – Step by Step
To replace the oil of the car with new engine oil is an important service. It will keep the car healthy as it has fresh, clean oil which will increase its lifespan. For a more detailed guide on how to perform an oil change follow these procedures.
What Tools Do I Need For An Oil Change?
These materials and tools can be purchased relatively cheaply from the local auto parts store.
- Wrench
- Oil drain pan
- Funnel
- Oil filter wrench
- Protective gloves
- Jack stands or ramps
- Oil filter
- Old rags
- Oil
- Replacement drain plug washer
Purchase the Correct Replacement Oil
Reading over the owner’s manual will be important in knowing the exact oil to replace the current one with. Ensure to purchase the most reliable type of oil to ensure that it is safe and easy to work with. There might also be specific requirements when it comes to replacing the car’s oil, such as it needs synthetic oil. That is why reading the manual is important to prevent issues from occurring with the wrong oil used.
1. Prepare the Car
Turn on the car and let it run for two to three minutes before entering the oil change process. This is to ensure the engine is warm, however, not too hot which is unadvised. Turn off the car after two to three minutes to prevent the system from becoming too hot.
Raise the car with a proper and sturdy jack tool when needing better access to the underside of the car. There should also be proper safety stands included and the tyres often do not need to be removed. Also, if the car has an undercover make sure to remove it temporarily. Locate where the drain plug and the oil filter are to perform the next step.
2. Drain the Old Oil
Place the oil pan underneath the where the drain plug is but not directly under. The drain plug is on an angle which will cause the oil to drain on an angle. Placing the drain pan roughly at max 10cm from the angle of the drain plus is recommended.
Ensure to wear gloves when taking off the oil filter cap and also the oil drain plug. An end wrench is recommended for removing the drain plug as it is the most efficient. Work slowly while keeping hands out of the direction where the oil will drain.
While the oil is draining out of the system inspect the oil drain plug. Clean the drain plug if needed or install the new drain plug washer if a new one is needed. Make sure to tighten back the drain plug with a wrench to prevent any damages.
3. Changing the Oil Filter
Remove the oil filter to install the new filter which will keep the system healthy for longer. To remove the old filter reposition the drain to ensure there is little mess as possible. Ensure to properly unscrew it and keep a tight grip of it until all the remaining oil has leaked. Old rags can be used across the process to keep areas cleaner and grabbing slippery surfaces.
When installing the new oil filter, using a wrench then screwing it by hand is needed. With the new filters, smear a small amount of oil on the O-ring. New oil filters often do not need to be screwed too tightly as the sealing gaskets swell as time passes.
4. Adding the New Oil
Once all other parts have been replaced, tightened and the oil has drained it is time to add fresh oil. It is encouraged to add oil one quarter less than it is recommended in the manual. Using a funnel or similarly shaped object slowly pour the new oil and then install the new oil cap.
It is important to also test and check the oil once it has been freshly poured into the system. To have the oil run throughout the system turn the engine on while letting it run for 30 seconds. This will help the oil to flow through the whole system while inspecting for are any issues, such as leaks. Turn the engine off, lower the car back onto the ground and recycle the old oil. If the job was unsuccessful or there was a sudden problem, getting your car inspected by a professional mechanics is always advised as a Car Repair may be required
Reliable Oil Change Mechanics
Peninsula Auto Clinic is here as a Northern Beaches mechanic service to reliably perform an oil change. We perform oil change services with expert methods and professional techniques. Our fully qualified mechanics will undergo this process effectively and complete it in the shortest amount of time.
Our oil change service is here for all of the Northern Beaches, including Palm Beach, Warriewood and Elanora. We also encourage reading our blog ‘what needs to be serviced in a car service’ to find out when services, such as oil changes, should happen.
When needing a reliable Northern Beaches mechanic service to perform an oil change we are here to help. Our auto shop is located on 7 Perak Street, Mona Vale where we perform the best oil change work. Contact Peninsula Auto Clinic now on 9999 2553 or email us at peninsulaautoclinic@hotmail.com for professional oil change services!
