Step-by-Step Instructions and Pictures for How to Do An Oil Change

By Bob Lacivita and David Radtke
This step-by-step guide shows you everything you need to know to do your own oil change at home. Read an overview for how to do an oil change.
From The Family Handyman
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Oil Change-Step 5
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5. Locate the engine oil fill hole and clean the area around the fill cap. Using a clean, dry funnel, add the new oil. Don’t spill any on the engine. If you do, wipe it up immediately. Note: Refer to your owner’s manual for the correct weight, API rating and amount of oil you’ll need to add. Replace the oil fill cap, check the oil level on the dipstick (it may be slightly over the mark until you run the engine) and start the engine. Be sure the garage door is open so exhaust fumes can escape.
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By Dan H, 10/02/2009, 4:43 PM EDT
Jack stands alone are too DANGEROUS for crawling under your vehicle. I've seen them fail when placed on asphalt on a slight slope--they slowly sank towards the front of the vehicle, and everything came crashing down. I strongly recommend buying ramps because it's much more difficult for your car to fall off them.
By CitiKnight, 02/27/2009, 9:48 PM EST
When draining the oil, don't barehand it: wear a pair of heavy duty latex gloves (keeps your hands cleaner) or Mechanix-type gloves (anti-knuckle busters). Also, look around for other sources of possible leaks (oil pan gasket, other fluid lines, CV joint boots). A local oil change shop may not tell you anything, but I got a leaky tranfer case repaired under warranty because I looked around. Keep your receipts for any possible future warranty/wear claims.

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