How to Change Oil in Car

Changing your car’s oil might sound like a job for the pros, but trust me—learning how to change oil in car is one of the most empowering things you can do. It’s not just about saving money (though you’ll definitely save some bucks); it’s about taking control of your vehicle’s health. I still remember the first time I did it—I was nervous, clumsy, and spilled a bit, but I felt like a mechanic-warrior afterward. That mix of grease and pride? Worth it.

In this article, we’ll walk together through everything you need to know about changing your oil. From understanding the right type of oil to use, to the final engine check, I’ve got your back. Whether you’re doing this in your driveway or a parking lot, by the end, you’ll not only know how—it’ll feel second nature.

Why Oil Changes Matter More Than You Think

If you ignore oil changes, here’s what could go wrong:

• Engine overheating

• Reduced fuel efficiency

• Permanent engine damage

• Unexpected breakdowns

It’s a small act that can prevent big disasters. A friend of mine once skipped three oil changes because “life got busy.” A year later, he was $3,000 deep in engine repairs. A $30 habit could’ve saved him.

Bold truth? Changing oil is not optional. It’s essential.

What You’ll Need Before You Begin

Preparation is half the battle. Don’t start unless you’ve got all the tools and parts ready. Here’s a quick checklist:

Tip: Always check your owner’s manual. It will tell you what type of oil and how much you need. Using the wrong oil can cause more harm than good.

Step 1: Park, Prepare, and Protect Yourself

Find a flat, open space—your garage or driveway works great. Let your engine cool for about 15–20 minutes if you’ve been driving. Hot oil can burn you bad. Safety isn’t boring; it’s smart.

Put your car in park and pull the handbrake. Use wheel chocks behind your tires if you want extra safety. Now jack up the car and slide those jack stands in. Make sure it’s stable before you crawl under.

Dress the part—old clothes, gloves, and a bandana if you’re feeling like a DIY hero.

Take a moment. You’re not just doing a task—you’re bonding with your machine.

Step 2: Drain the Old Oil

Slide the oil drain pan under the oil plug (usually under the engine). Grab your wrench, loosen the plug counterclockwise, and watch the old oil gush out like a waterfall of regret. It’ll take 5–10 minutes to drain fully.

Here’s where it gets real. That dark, gritty stuff? That’s your engine’s cry for help. When oil gets this bad, it stops protecting your parts. It’s like trying to ice-skate on gravel.

Important: Don’t lose the drain plug. Clean it off with a rag and set it somewhere safe while the oil finishes draining.

I always think of this part like a detox for your car. Out with the bad, in with the good.

Step 3: Remove the Old Oil Filter

Once the oil has drained, it’s time to remove the oil filter. Use an oil filter wrench to loosen it. It might take a little effort—it’s often screwed on tightly. Twist it off slowly because there’s still oil in there, and it will drip.

Compare the old filter to the new one to make sure they match. Some filters are a bit unique, so make sure it fits your car model.

Wipe the spot where the filter was with a clean rag. This helps the new filter seal properly.

Pro tip: Dab a bit of new oil on the rubber gasket of the new filter before installing it. This helps it seal tight and come off easier next time.

Step 4: Install the New Oil Filter and Plug

Now screw on the new oil filter by hand. Tighten it firmly, but don’t overdo it—you don’t need a wrench for this part. Once it’s snug, it’s good to go.

Take your cleaned drain plug and screw it back into the oil pan. Tighten it with your wrench, but not too hard. You want it sealed but not stripped.

At this point, your engine is sealed and ready for its fresh new lifeblood.

Changing oil is kind of like giving your car a fresh cup of coffee. It wakes it up and makes everything smoother.

Step 5: Pour in the New Oil

Open the hood, take off the oil cap on top of the engine, and place a funnel into the opening. Slowly pour in the new engine oil. Your owner’s manual will tell you how much you need—usually between 4 and 6 quarts.

Use the right oil. Whether it’s 5W-30, 10W-40, or synthetic oil, the right kind makes all the difference. Think of oil like skin lotion. The right one makes everything soft and smooth. The wrong one just sits there.

After pouring, wait a minute. Then pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, insert it again, and check the oil level. It should sit between the two marks.

Replace the oil cap, close the hood, and give yourself a pat on the back. You just nailed it.

Step 6: Dispose of the Old Oil Properly

Now that your car is all set with fresh oil, it’s time to take care of the used stuff. Never dump it in the trash, down a drain, or in the yard. Used oil is toxic. One gallon of it can contaminate a million gallons of water. That’s not just bad—it’s heartbreaking.

Pour the old oil into a sealed container, like the empty jug your new oil came in. Do the same with the old filter—it still holds dirty oil inside. Many auto parts stores will take used oil for free. Some even reward you with store credit.

I once forgot to dispose of mine for weeks. The garage smelled like a tire fire and my partner was not impressed. Lesson learned: take it in the same day if you can.

Be kind to the planet. Your car loves fresh oil. The Earth? It loves clean water.How to Tell if You Did It Right

After everything’s cleaned up, start the engine and let it run for 1–2 minutes. Watch your oil light—it should stay off. Then, turn off the car, wait five minutes, and check the oil level again with the dipstick.

Here’s what you’re looking for:

• The oil should be between the two marks.

• It should look golden, not black.

• No leaks under the car.

If anything seems off—like a puddle forming under your engine or a strange smell—don’t panic. Double-check that the drain plug and oil filter are tight. Most issues happen when one of those is loose.

Doing it right feels like nailing a recipe you used to burn. It’s satisfying, confidence-boosting, and just a little addictive.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Changing your oil might be simple, but that doesn’t mean it’s foolproof. Here are some common oil change mistakes I’ve made (so you don’t have to):

• Overtightening the oil filter – This can crush the gasket or make it a nightmare to remove later.

• Using the wrong oil – Always check the manual. 10W-40 in a 5W-30 engine can cause wear.

• Not replacing the oil filter – Old filter, new oil? You’re mixing clean with dirty.

• Forgetting the drain plug – Yes, it’s happened. The result? Oil all over your garage floor.

• Overfilling the engine – Too much oil causes pressure and leaks. Always check the dipstick.

Think of oil changes like baking. The ingredients matter. The steps matter. And one misstep can mess up the whole batch.

Signs Your Oil Needs Changing

Knowing how to change oil in car is great, but knowing when to do it is just as important. Here’s what your car might be telling you:

• Strange engine noises – More ticking or knocking? Old oil could be the culprit.

• Dark or dirty oil – Check the dipstick. If it looks like coffee sludge, change it.

• Dashboard oil light – Obvious, but don’t ignore it.

• Poor mileage – Dirty oil means your engine works harder. That means more gas, more money.

• Burning smell – If it smells like hot rubber or oil, something’s wrong.

Most people wait too long. Don’t be “most people.” Be the person whose engine lasts 200,000 miles because you stayed on top of it.

How Often Should You Change Your Oil?

Old rule: every 3,000 miles. New rule: check the manual.

Many modern cars can go 5,000 to 7,500 miles or even 10,000 miles between changes, especially with synthetic oil. But driving habits matter too. If you:

• Do a lot of short trips

• Sit in traffic often

• Drive in dusty or hot environments

…then your oil wears out faster.

Think of it like drinking water. The more you sweat, the more you need to replenish. Your car works the same way.

Key tip: Set a reminder on your phone after each oil change. You’ll thank yourself later.Personal Story: The Oil Change That Saved My Trip

Two years ago, I planned a road trip across three states. My friend laughed when I said I was changing my own oil before we left. “Just get it done at a shop,” he said. But I trusted my gut.

Halfway through Nevada, we passed a car smoking on the shoulder—engine failure from low oil pressure. That could’ve been us. That one hour in my garage saved the entire trip. And I’ll never forget the feeling of cruising through the desert, knowing my engine was smooth, protected, and ready for anything.

That’s what this is really about. Not just learning how to change oil in car, but owning your journey—literally.

Metaphors and Mindsets: Oil Changes and Life

Think of your engine oil like emotional self-care. If you never check in with yourself, if you keep running without renewal, things break down. But when you pause, refresh, and nourish? You last longer. You go further. You perform better.

Changing oil is like therapy for your car. And just like with life, consistency is key.

I know people who treat their car like a disposable item. But when you maintain something, it gives back. The same way we grow when we invest in ourselves, our cars thrive when we take care of the basics.

Takeaway: It’s More Than a Maintenance Task

Let’s wrap this up. How to change oil in car isn’t just a skill—it’s a life tool. You save money, feel capable, and build a relationship with your ride. It’s not always pretty. You might spill. You might curse. But each time, it gets easier.

And let’s be real—there’s something deeply satisfying about turning that ignition after a fresh oil change. It’s like your car sighs in relief. You feel it in your chest.

Here’s what you gain:

• Control over your car’s lifespan

• Confidence in your mechanical skills

• Cash savings (a big win in this economy)

• A deeper appreciation for your vehicle

So next weekend, skip the shop. Roll up your sleeves. And rediscover the joy of doing it yourself.

Because now? You know exactly how to change oil in car—and you do it better than most.