In the bustling world of Car Mechanic Simulator 2021, where the roar of engines and the scent of gasoline fill the air, mastering the art of car maintenance is paramount. One of the most fundamental tasks any aspiring mechanic must learn is how to change oil. This seemingly simple procedure is crucial for the health and longevity of any vehicle. Fresh oil lubricates the engine’s moving parts, reducing friction and wear, ultimately ensuring smooth performance and preventing costly repairs down the line. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of changing oil in Car Mechanic Simulator 2021, equipping you with the knowledge and skills to keep your virtual garage running like a well-oiled machine.
Gathering Your Tools and Supplies
Before diving into the oil change process, it’s essential to gather all the necessary tools and supplies. Just like in a real-world garage, having everything readily available will streamline the process and prevent any unnecessary delays. Here’s a checklist of what you’ll need:
Essential Tools
- Wrench Set: A set of wrenches in various sizes is crucial for loosening and tightening the oil drain plug and the oil filter.
- Oil Filter Wrench: This specialized tool is designed to remove the oil filter securely.
- Oil Drain Pan: A sturdy drain pan will collect the used oil as it is drained from the engine.
- Funnel: A funnel helps to guide the new oil into the engine’s oil filler opening, preventing spills.
- Jack and Jack Stands: These are essential for safely lifting the vehicle and providing a stable working platform.
Supplies
- New Engine Oil: Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine the correct oil type and viscosity for your engine.
- New Oil Filter: Choose a new oil filter that is compatible with your vehicle model.
- Rags or Shop Towels: These are handy for wiping up any spills or excess oil.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from the hot oil and potential grime.
Preparing the Vehicle
Once you have all your tools and supplies ready, it’s time to prepare the vehicle for the oil change. This involves several steps that ensure a safe and efficient process:
Parking and Safety
Park your vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. It’s always a good idea to chock the rear wheels for added safety.
Warming Up the Engine
Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to warm up the oil. This will help it flow more freely when draining.
Locating the Drain Plug and Oil Filter
Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual to locate the oil drain plug and oil filter. They are typically located underneath the engine.
Draining the Old Oil
Now that the engine is warm and you’ve located the drain plug, it’s time to drain the old oil. This step requires careful handling to avoid spills and burns:
Positioning the Drain Pan
Place the oil drain pan directly underneath the oil drain plug. Make sure it’s positioned securely to catch all the draining oil. (See Also: What Happens When You Have Low Oil In Your Car? – The Risks)
Loosening the Drain Plug
Using the appropriate wrench, carefully loosen the oil drain plug. Be prepared for hot oil to start flowing out immediately.
Removing the Drain Plug
Once the plug is loosened, carefully remove it by hand. Let the oil drain completely into the pan. This may take several minutes.
Tightening the Drain Plug
Once the oil has drained completely, carefully reinstall the drain plug and tighten it securely using the wrench. Don’t overtighten, as this can damage the oil pan.
Replacing the Oil Filter
With the old oil drained, it’s time to replace the oil filter. This step involves a few key steps:
Removing the Old Filter
Using the oil filter wrench, carefully loosen and remove the old oil filter. Be prepared for some oil to spill out.
Preparing the New Filter
Apply a thin layer of new engine oil to the gasket of the new oil filter. This helps to create a good seal.
Installing the New Filter
Screw the new oil filter onto the engine by hand until it is snug. Then, tighten it an additional quarter to half turn using the oil filter wrench.
Adding New Oil
With the new oil filter in place, it’s time to add the fresh engine oil. This step requires precision to ensure the engine is properly lubricated: (See Also: How Do You Dispose of Old Car Oil? Properly And Safely)
Checking the Oil Level
Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag. Reinsert the dipstick fully and remove it again to check the oil level. The oil level should be between the “Full” and “Add” marks.
Adding Oil
Using the funnel, carefully pour the new engine oil into the engine’s oil filler opening. Add oil in small increments and check the level frequently to avoid overfilling.
Final Check and Cleanup
Once the oil level is correct, reinstall the dipstick and tighten the oil filler cap. Dispose of the used oil and filter properly at a designated recycling center.
Starting the Engine and Checking for Leaks
After adding the new oil, start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter. If you notice any leaks, tighten the connections carefully.
Recap of the Oil Change Process
Changing oil in Car Mechanic Simulator 2021 is a fundamental skill that every aspiring mechanic should master. This process involves several key steps:
- Gathering the necessary tools and supplies.
- Preparing the vehicle by parking it safely, warming up the engine, and locating the drain plug and oil filter.
- Draining the old oil by loosening and removing the drain plug, allowing the oil to drain completely, and reinstalling the drain plug securely.
- Replacing the oil filter by removing the old filter, preparing the new filter, and installing the new filter snugly.
- Adding new oil by checking the oil level, pouring in the new oil in small increments, and ensuring the level is between the “Full” and “Add” marks.
- Starting the engine, checking for leaks, and disposing of the used oil and filter properly.
By following these steps carefully, you can ensure that your virtual vehicles are running smoothly and efficiently. Regular oil changes are essential for maintaining the health and longevity of any engine, and mastering this skill in Car Mechanic Simulator 2021 will serve you well in your virtual mechanic career.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I change the oil in Car Mechanic Simulator 2021?
While the in-game mileage recommendations vary depending on the vehicle, it’s generally a good idea to change the oil every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first. This helps to keep your engine running smoothly and prevents premature wear. (See Also: How Much Engine Oil for My Car? The Ultimate Guide)
What type of oil should I use in Car Mechanic Simulator 2021?
The game typically recommends using the oil type specified in the vehicle’s owner’s manual. Consult the manual for your specific vehicle to ensure you’re using the correct oil viscosity and type.
Can I reuse the old oil filter?
No, it’s not recommended to reuse the old oil filter. The filter is designed to trap contaminants, and reusing it can allow these contaminants back into the engine, potentially causing damage.
What should I do if I overfill the engine with oil?
If you overfill the engine with oil, you’ll need to remove some of the excess oil. Use a siphon pump or a turkey baster to carefully remove the oil from the engine until the level is correct. Be sure to check the dipstick frequently to avoid overfilling again.
Where can I dispose of used oil and filters?
Used oil and filters should be disposed of properly at a designated recycling center. Many auto parts stores and service centers accept used oil and filters for recycling.