Oil Change Tips For DIY

For a responsible car owner it is unnecessary to point out the many ways that it is good and helpful to have an oil change. They know that the engine needs to be protected and that the best way to do that is to always have this simple routine maintenance done regularly. They also know that whether they do it themselves or they have someone else do it there are things to consider like temperature and driving conditions. There are number of things that may not have crossed their mind.

For example, it is not a good idea to have an oil change while the engine is hot. Not only is the interior of the hood over two hundred degrees and can burn a person, but also because not all of the deposits and debris are settled to the bottom of the drain pan and so they may not be properly cleaned out without time to cool. If you are going to have someone else do it for you take the automobile straight from your home or work to the service center so that it has not had time to get too hot.

Be sure to look and see how much is meant to be in the engine according to the owner's guide. Modern technology has made it so that less lubricant is needed for the more efficient and compact motors. Generally, about 4 quarts is right but never overfill because you did not check correctly.

Advancements in materials, filtering and tolerances have made the 3,000-mile guideline a thing of the past. Instead check and see what the car manufacturer recommends. Unless the type of conditions or load is extreme there should be no need to have an oil change so frequently. Only you are aware of how and where you drive and under what conditions. Be honest with the wear you are putting on the vehicle and maintain it accordingly.

When performing an oil change be sure to double-check all safety precautions. Set the parking brake and double check it. If performing the work in a garage, roll it out to the street before starting the motor or else allow it plenty of time to air out. Also consider putting blocks under the wheels and having a partner to help watch you and spot for dangerous situations.

Finally make sure that you are a responsible car owner. That means catching the waste that comes out and disposing of the filter and used lubricant. It can save money to do an oil change on one's own but it is not worth damaging the environment to do it. Every city has a toxic waste disposal site.