Oil Change: Do It Yourself

Oil change is very crucial for the health of a car. In fact, it may be one of the most important tasks they can be done for a vehicle. While there are many professionals who can perform this automotive chore in the blink of an eye, a relatively knowledgeable do-it-yourselfer can probably do it at home for less money. And price tag aside, it can be a satisfying skill to add to your competence and independence repertoire. Here are some things to think about when trying it yourself:

This is a messy task and oily substances are difficult to launder out of clothing. Make certain you wear old clothes that you don’t care about or duds that you will always designate for messier tasks.

Gloves are also a good idea. The hands can become stained without them. A good set of work gloves will not only offer protection but will aid in gripping and handling tools and machinery.

If the engine is cold, it’s best to warm it up before doing this job. A chilly engine will allow deposits to move out of the suspension and may not be properly cleaned out during this process.

Check the dipstick. Pull it out, wipe it off, and then replace it. After waiting a couple of minutes, pull it out and check it again. This method will give a more accurate reading of oil usage.

Make certain you have the proper tools before starting this process as you don’t want to have to go looking for them right in the middle. You will need wrenches, a jack and a funnel. You will also need a container to drain the fluid into.

In order to keep the car from rolling during this task, in is important that you wedge bricks or blocks behind the tires. A rolling vehicle can be disastrous for the mechanic working beneath it. Take precautions against this potential mishap with wedged chocks, blocks or even rocks.

Filters should be changed at the same time. Make certain that you purchase the top quality filter for the best results. Go to the auto supply shop and they can help you find the best one for your auto.

All oil is not created the same. The owners’ manual will list the type and weight of lubricant that is designated for your car. The sides of the cans usually have the designation stamped on them. A cautionary note is to beware of accidentally picking up “non-detergent” oil which may look very similar but is actually the lubricant used for landscaping tools.

Be kind to the planet and recycle the dirty lubricant. Pouring it on the ground or down the drain is an absolute no-no. Water supplies and plants can be extremely adversely affected by this act of ignorance. Recycling is simple. Fill up old milk jugs and tote the discarded stuff to the local auto shop. They will take it off your hands for free and recycle it.

Doing your own oil change can be great for your automobile and a satisfying experience for you, the motorist. One more mission accomplished.