How To Get Under Car To Change Oil? A Step By Step Guide

Changing the oil in your car is an essential maintenance task that helps keep your vehicle running smoothly and prolong its lifespan. Regular oil changes can prevent engine damage, reduce wear and tear on moving parts, and improve fuel efficiency. However, getting under the car to change the oil can be intimidating, especially for those who are new to DIY car maintenance. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps to get under your car safely and efficiently, and provide you with the necessary information to change your car’s oil like a pro.

Preparation is Key: Gathering the Right Tools and Equipment

Before you start, make sure you have the right tools and equipment to change your car’s oil. You will need a car jack, a set of jack stands, a drain pan, a socket wrench or ratchet and socket, oil filter wrench (if applicable), new oil filter, enough motor oil to fill your car, and a car lift (optional). It’s also a good idea to consult your car’s owner’s manual for specific recommendations on oil type and capacity.

Choosing the Right Jack and Jack Stands

When selecting a car jack, consider the weight of your car and the type of lift you need. There are three main types of car jacks: scissor jacks, hydraulic jacks, and floor jacks. Scissor jacks are the most common type and are suitable for most cars. Hydraulic jacks are more powerful and can lift heavier loads, while floor jacks are designed for lifting cars that are already on a lift or a ramp.

Jack stands are essential for providing additional support and stability to the car while it’s raised. They should be placed near the jack and positioned to support the car’s frame. Make sure the jack stands are rated for the weight of your car and are securely positioned before you start lifting.

Types of Jack Stands

Fixed Jack Stands: These are the most common type and are designed to be placed on the ground.
Portable Jack Stands: These are lightweight and can be easily moved around the garage or workshop.
Adjustable Jack Stands: These can be adjusted to fit different car models and are ideal for those who work on multiple vehicles.

Locating a Safe Place to Change Oil

When choosing a location to change your car’s oil, look for a flat, level surface that is clear of any obstacles or tripping hazards. Make sure the surface is also well-ventilated to prevent the buildup of fumes from the oil and other chemicals. If you’re working indoors, consider using a well-ventilated garage or workshop with a drain pan to catch any spills.

It’s also essential to ensure that the surface is stable and can support the weight of your car. If you’re working on a slope or uneven surface, consider using jack stands to provide additional support and stability to the car.

Clearing the Area Around the Car

Before you start lifting the car, clear the area around it of any obstacles or tripping hazards. This includes any tools, equipment, or other items that could get in the way or cause you to trip while working underneath the car.

It’s also a good idea to cover the ground with a drop cloth or old sheets to protect it from any spills or drips. This will make cleanup easier and prevent any damage to the surface.

Important Safety Considerations

Always refer to your car’s owner’s manual for specific recommendations on oil type and capacity.
Make sure you have a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit nearby in case of emergencies.
Never get under the car while it’s supported only by a jack.
Always use jack stands to provide additional support and stability to the car.
Never work under the car in a confined space or with poor ventilation.

Lifting the Car: Using a Jack and Jack Stands

Now that you’ve prepared the area and gathered the necessary tools and equipment, it’s time to lift the car. This is the most critical part of the process, as it requires careful attention to safety and precision. Make sure you follow these steps carefully to avoid any accidents or injuries.

Positioning the Jack

Locate the jacking point on your car, which is usually indicated by a metal reinforcement or a stamped marking on the frame. This is the point where the jack should be placed to lift the car safely. Make sure the jack is centered and stable before you start lifting. (See Also: How Do I Know Which Engine Oil to Use? Choosing The Best)

Position the jack at the jacking point and slowly raise it until it makes contact with the car’s frame. Continue to raise the jack until the car starts to lift off the ground. Make sure the jack is stable and secure before you proceed.

Types of Jacks and Their Uses

Jack Type	Description	Use
Scissor Jack	A scissor jack is a compact, portable jack that is designed for lifting small to medium-sized cars.	Use for lifting cars with a weight capacity of up to 2 tons.
Hydraulic Jack	A hydraulic jack is a powerful jack that uses hydraulic fluid to lift heavy loads.	Use for lifting cars with a weight capacity of over 2 tons.
Floor Jack	A floor jack is a low-profile jack that is designed for lifting cars that are already on a lift or a ramp.	Use for lifting cars with a weight capacity of up to 1 ton.

Positioning the Jack Stands

Once the car is lifted off the ground, position the jack stands near the jacking points and lower the car onto them. Make sure the jack stands are securely positioned and can support the weight of the car.

Lower the car slowly and carefully onto the jack stands, making sure they are stable and secure. Once the car is safely supported by the jack stands, you can remove the jack and proceed with the oil change.

Important Safety Considerations

Always refer to your car’s owner’s manual for specific recommendations on jacking points and weight capacity.
Make sure the jack is stable and secure before you start lifting.
Never get under the car while it’s supported only by a jack.
Always use jack stands to provide additional support and stability to the car.
Never work under the car in a confined space or with poor ventilation.

Draining the Oil: Removing the Oil Drain Plug

Now that the car is safely lifted and supported by the jack stands, it’s time to drain the oil. This is the most critical part of the oil change process, as it requires careful attention to safety and precision. Make sure you follow these steps carefully to avoid any accidents or injuries.

Locating the Oil Drain Plug

The oil drain plug is usually located at the bottom of the engine, near the front of the car. It’s a large bolt or plug that holds the oil pan in place. Make sure you locate the correct oil drain plug for your car, as it may be different from other models.

Use a socket wrench or ratchet and socket to remove the oil drain plug. Be prepared for the oil to start draining out quickly, so make sure you have a drain pan in place to catch the oil.

Types of Oil Drain Plugs

Screw-on Oil Drain Plug: This type of plug is screwed onto the oil pan and requires a socket wrench or ratchet and socket to remove.
Slotted Oil Drain Plug: This type of plug has a slot in the center and requires a screwdriver or wrench to remove.
Tabbed Oil Drain Plug: This type of plug has a tab or notch in the center and requires a specialized tool to remove.

Draining the Oil

Once the oil drain plug is removed, the oil will start draining out quickly. Make sure you have a drain pan in place to catch the oil, and be prepared for the oil to spill over the edges of the pan.

Allow the oil to drain completely before proceeding with the oil change. This may take several minutes, depending on the amount of oil in your car.

Important Safety Considerations

Always refer to your car’s owner’s manual for specific recommendations on oil drain plug location and removal.
Make sure you have a drain pan in place to catch the oil before removing the oil drain plug.
Never get under the car while it’s supported only by a jack.
Always use jack stands to provide additional support and stability to the car.
Never work under the car in a confined space or with poor ventilation.

Replacing the Oil Filter

Now that the oil has been drained, it’s time to replace the oil filter. This is a critical step in the oil change process, as it ensures that the new oil is clean and free of contaminants. (See Also: How to Change Oil in a 115 Mercury Outboard Motor? A Step-by-Step Guide)

Locating the Oil Filter

The oil filter is usually located on the top or side of the engine, and is held in place by a filter wrench or socket. Make sure you locate the correct oil filter for your car, as it may be different from other models.

Types of Oil Filters

Cartridge Oil Filter: This type of filter is a disposable cartridge that is designed to be replaced every oil change.
Canister Oil Filter: This type of filter is a sealed canister that contains a filter element and is designed to be replaced every oil change.
Spin-on Oil Filter: This type of filter is a sealed canister that contains a filter element and is designed to be replaced every oil change.

Removing the Old Oil Filter

Use a filter wrench or socket to remove the old oil filter. Be careful not to spill any oil that may still be inside the filter.

Important Safety Considerations

Always refer to your car’s owner’s manual for specific recommendations on oil filter location and removal.
Make sure you have a new oil filter ready to install.
Never get under the car while it’s supported only by a jack.
Always use jack stands to provide additional support and stability to the car.
Never work under the car in a confined space or with poor ventilation.

Installing the New Oil Filter

Now that the old oil filter has been removed, it’s time to install the new one. Make sure you follow these steps carefully to avoid any accidents or injuries.

Installing the New Oil Filter

Take the new oil filter and apply a thin layer of oil to the gasket or seal. This will help to ensure a tight seal and prevent any leaks.

Place the new oil filter onto the engine and hand tighten it. Make sure it’s securely in place and won’t come loose while driving.

Important Safety Considerations

Always refer to your car’s owner’s manual for specific recommendations on oil filter installation.
Make sure the new oil filter is securely in place and won’t come loose while driving.
Never get under the car while it’s supported only by a jack.
Always use jack stands to provide additional support and stability to the car.
Never work under the car in a confined space or with poor ventilation.

Refilling the Oil

Now that the new oil filter has been installed, it’s time to refill the oil. Make sure you follow these steps carefully to avoid any accidents or injuries.

Locating the Oil Filler Cap

The oil filler cap is usually located on top of the engine, and is held in place by a cap or plug. Make sure you locate the correct oil filler cap for your car, as it may be different from other models.

Types of Oil Filler Caps

Cap-style Oil Filler Cap: This type of cap is a screw-on cap that is designed to be removed and replaced.
Plug-style Oil Filler Cap: This type of cap is a plug that is designed to be removed and replaced.

Refilling the Oil

Use a funnel to pour in the new oil. Make sure you use the correct type and amount of oil for your car, as specified in the owner’s manual.

Replace the oil filler cap and start the engine. Let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new oil.

Important Safety Considerations

Always refer to your car’s owner’s manual for specific recommendations on oil type and capacity.
Make sure you use the correct type and amount of oil for your car.
Never get under the car while it’s supported only by a jack.
Always use jack stands to provide additional support and stability to the car.
Never work under the car in a confined space or with poor ventilation.

Final Check

Now that the oil change is complete, it’s time for a final check. Make sure you follow these steps carefully to avoid any accidents or injuries.

Checking the Oil Level

Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new oil. Then, turn off the engine and check the oil level using the dipstick. (See Also: How Long to Let Car Run After Adding Oil? Safe Driving Tips)

Make sure the oil level is at the recommended level, and top it off if necessary.

Important Safety Considerations

Always refer to your car’s owner’s manual for specific recommendations on oil level checks.
Make sure the oil level is at the recommended level.
Never get under the car while it’s supported only by a jack.
Always use jack stands to provide additional support and stability to the car.
Never work under the car in a confined space or with poor ventilation.

Recap

Changing the oil in your car is a critical maintenance task that helps keep your vehicle running smoothly and prolong its lifespan. Regular oil changes can prevent engine damage, reduce wear and tear on moving parts, and improve fuel efficiency. By following these steps, you can change your car’s oil like a pro and keep your vehicle running like new.

Key Points to Remember

Always refer to your car’s owner’s manual for specific recommendations on oil type and capacity.
Make sure you have the right tools and equipment for the job.
Never get under the car while it’s supported only by a jack.
Always use jack stands to provide additional support and stability to the car.
Never work under the car in a confined space or with poor ventilation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I change my car’s oil?

A: The frequency of oil changes depends on the type of vehicle, driving conditions, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Typically, oil changes are recommended every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.

Q: What type of oil should I use in my car?

A: The type of oil to use depends on the type of vehicle, driving conditions, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Typically, synthetic oil is recommended for most modern vehicles.

Q: How do I dispose of used oil and filters?

A: Used oil and filters should be disposed of at a recycling center or an auto parts store that accepts used oil and filters. Do not dispose of them in the trash or down the drain.

Q: Can I change my car’s oil myself?

A: Yes, you can change your car’s oil yourself if you have the right tools and equipment and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. However, if you are not comfortable doing it yourself, it’s recommended to take your car to a professional mechanic.

Q: How long does an oil change take?

A: The time it takes to change the oil in your car depends on the type of vehicle, the experience of the person doing the oil change, and the tools and equipment used. Typically, an oil change can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.