Changing your car's oil yourself is not only a money saver; it's also a lot easier than it sounds!
What You'll Need
4 to 6 quarts of motor oil.
A new oil filter. Most cars use a "spin-on" oil filter available in various shapes and sizes. (Check your owner's manual for the appropriate type and size.)
A drain plug socket wrench or open-end wrench (exact size) and an oil filter wrench.
A large drain pan, at least 5 to 7 quarts in capacity
A rag
Step 1 - Choose Your Oil
Your owner's manual for your vehicle should recommend a certain grade of oil to be used under normal driving conditions as well as the number of miles that you can drive your vehicle before changing your oil.
As a general rule of thumb, change your motor oil and oil filter every 3,000 miles or every 3 months, whichever comes first.
Step 2 - Prepare Your Vehicle
Never use a bumper jack to hold your vehicle up - it is simply too unstable. Portable wheel ramps are ideal and much safer. Wheel ramps will tilt the car just enough to allow you to slide underneath. After making sure that you are on level ground, drive your vehicle up onto the wheel ramps so that the front tires are elevated. Set your emergency brake and brace both rear wheels with wooden blocks to prevent the vehicle from rolling. Put your vehicle in first gear if you have a manual transmission and in Park if you have an automatic transmission.
Step 3 - Drain the Old Oil
Locate the oil drain plug on the underside of your vehicle. It should be located at the bottom rear end of the engine sump or oil pan.Place the drain pan underneath the drain plug and slightly toward the back. Using your wrench, turn the plug counterclockwise until it rotates freely. Finish removing the plug by hand.
Step 4 - Remove the Oil Filter
Next, loosen the oil filter - which may be warm - by turning it counterclockwise with a filter wrench. Complete the removal by hand.
Step 5 - Replace the Oil Filter
Take your rag and wipe in and around the...