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 6
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Check the oil pressure gauge for the proper pressure reading or be certain the oil light on the instrument cluster is off. Look under the car for leaks. Lower the car and recheck the dipstick level to make sure the oil is up to the full mark.
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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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