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How Should You Change the Engine Oil of Your Car? A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

How Should You Change the Engine Oil of Your Car? A Complete Step-by-Step Guide…

Engine oil is often called the lifeblood of a car’s engine. It lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, keeps the engine cool, and prevents excessive wear. However, engine oil loses its effectiveness over time due to heat, dirt, and contaminants. Regular oil changes are one of the simplest and most important maintenance tasks that can significantly increase your engine’s lifespan.

In this guide, we’ll explain how to change your car’s engine oil safely and correctly, along with tips on choosing the right oil and avoiding common mistakes.

Why Is Changing Engine Oil Important?

Fresh engine oil provides several benefits:

  • Reduces engine wear and friction
  • Improves fuel efficiency
  • Prevents sludge buildup
  • Helps keep the engine cool
  • Extends engine life
  • Ensures smoother performance

Ignoring oil changes can lead to poor engine performance, overheating, and expensive repairs.

When Should You Change Engine Oil?

The ideal oil change interval depends on your car and the type of oil you use.

General recommendations:

  • Mineral oil: Every 5,000–7,000 km
  • Semi-synthetic oil: Every 7,500–10,000 km
  • Fully synthetic oil: Every 10,000–15,000 km

Always follow the maintenance schedule mentioned in your vehicle’s owner’s manual, as recommendations vary between manufacturers.

Things You’ll Need

Before starting, gather the following:

  • Engine oil (correct grade and specification)
  • New oil filter
  • Oil filter wrench
  • Socket wrench
  • Drain pan
  • Funnel
  • Jack and jack stands or ramps (if required)
  • Gloves
  • Clean cloth or paper towels

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Engine Oil

Step 1: Warm Up the Engine

Run the engine for about 3–5 minutes. Warm oil drains more easily than cold oil.

Do not work on an engine that is excessively hot.

Step 2: Park Safely

Park the vehicle on a flat surface.

  • Engage the parking brake.
  • Switch off the engine.
  • Allow it to cool slightly.
  • Lift the vehicle safely if additional clearance is needed.

Never rely only on a hydraulic jack—always use jack stands if the vehicle is raised.

Step 3: Drain the Old Oil

Locate the oil drain plug beneath the engine.

  • Place the drain pan underneath.
  • Remove the drain plug carefully.
  • Let all the old oil drain completely.

This usually takes around 10–15 minutes.

Step 4: Replace the Oil Filter

The oil filter traps dirt and contaminants.

  • Remove the old filter using an oil filter wrench.
  • Apply a thin layer of fresh oil to the rubber gasket of the new filter.
  • Install the new filter by hand until snug.

Avoid overtightening.

Step 5: Reinstall the Drain Plug

Once the old oil has drained completely:

  • Clean the drain plug.
  • Replace the washer if recommended.
  • Tighten the drain plug securely.

Do not overtighten, as it can damage the oil pan threads.

Step 6: Add Fresh Engine Oil

Open the oil filler cap.

Using a funnel, pour in the recommended amount of fresh engine oil.

Always use the viscosity grade specified by your vehicle manufacturer, such as 5W-30, 0W-20, or 10W-40.

Step 7: Check the Oil Level

After filling:

  • Wait a few minutes.
  • Pull out the dipstick.
  • Wipe it clean.
  • Insert it again.
  • Check the oil level.

The oil should be between the minimum and maximum marks.

Step 8: Start the Engine

Start the engine and let it idle for about one minute.

Check underneath the vehicle for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter.

Switch off the engine and recheck the oil level after a few minutes. Top up if necessary.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many car owners make small mistakes that can cause serious problems.

Avoid these:

  • Using the wrong engine oil grade
  • Forgetting to replace the oil filter
  • Overfilling the engine with oil
  • Not tightening the drain plug properly
  • Failing to check for leaks after the oil change
  • Ignoring the owner’s manual recommendations

How to Dispose of Used Engine Oil

Never pour used engine oil into drains, soil, or water bodies.

Instead:

  • Store it in a sealed container.
  • Take it to an authorized recycling centre, service station, or hazardous waste collection facility.

Proper disposal helps protect the environment.

Can You Change Engine Oil Yourself?

Yes. If you have basic tools and follow safety precautions, changing engine oil at home is possible.

However, if your car has an underbody cover, requires special tools, or you’re unsure about the procedure, getting it serviced at an authorized workshop is the safer option.

Final Thoughts

Changing your car’s engine oil on time is one of the most effective ways to keep the engine healthy and running efficiently. Whether you choose to do it yourself or visit a professional service centre, using the correct engine oil and replacing the oil filter regularly will help improve performance, reduce wear, and extend your vehicle’s lifespan.

A small investment in routine maintenance today can save you from costly engine repairs in the future.

Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only. Always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the correct oil specification, oil capacity, and maintenance schedule. If you are unsure about any step, consult a qualified automotive technician.

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