Changing your engine oil and filter is one of the most important maintenance tasks for keeping your engine healthy. The process is manageable with basic tools, but it does involve working under the car and handling hot oil.
Correct engine oil (check owner’s manual)
New oil filter
Oil filter wrench (sometimes optional)
Socket set or spanner (for drain plug)
Oil drain pan/container
Funnel
Jack and axle stands (or ramps)
Gloves and rags/paper towels
Run the engine for 5–10 minutes to warm the oil.
Warm oil flows out more easily and carries more contaminants.
Turn the engine off before starting work.
Park on level ground.
Engage handbrake and select gear/Park.
Raise the front of the car using a jack and secure it with axle stands (never rely on the jack alone).
Under the engine, find:
The oil drain plug at the bottom of the sump
The oil filter (can be a metal canister or cartridge housing)
Place the drain pan under the sump plug.
Carefully loosen and remove the drain plug.
Allow oil to drain completely (may take 5–10 minutes).
Inspect and clean the drain plug.
Refit the plug and tighten securely (do not overtighten).
Move the drain pan under the filter (some oil will spill).
Unscrew the filter using hands or a filter wrench.
Remove it carefully.
Important:
Check that the rubber gasket from the old filter did not stick to the engine.
Lightly coat the rubber seal of the new filter with fresh oil.
Screw it in by hand until it seats.
Tighten according to instructions (usually hand-tight + a small extra turn).
Open the oil filler cap on top of the engine.
Insert a funnel.
Pour in the recommended amount of oil (check manual for capacity).
Do not overfill.
Wait a few minutes for oil to settle.
Use the dipstick to check level.
Top up gradually if needed until it is between MIN and MAX.
Start the engine and let it run for 30–60 seconds.
Check underneath for leaks at:
Drain plug
Oil filter
Turn off the engine and recheck oil level.
Old oil is hazardous waste.
Take it to:
A recycling centre
Local council waste facility
Approved automotive collection point
Never pour it down drains or into the ground.
Replace oil and filter at the interval recommended in your owner’s manual (often 5,000–15,000 miles depending on vehicle and oil type).
Always double-check oil specifications (wrong oil can damage the engine).
If the oil warning light comes on after the change, stop and recheck the level immediately.
Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
Be careful with hot oil and exhaust components.
Ensure all tools and the drain plug are securely tightened before starting the engine.