How to Change Your Car’s Oil

Changing your car’s oil may seem intimidating, but anyone can do it! Not only is it a simple task to do on your own, but you save money in the long run by changing the oil yourself. Middle Country Automotive provides you with a few easy steps to do the job yourself. We are experts in all auto repair, auto inspections, and brake repair services in Selden, NY 11784 and Centereach NY 11720.

What you will need:
Engine Oil
Gloves and Rags
Container to catch the old oil
New Oil filter
Jack or ramp
Socket set

Step 1
Turn your car on and let it run for 2-3 minutes. Letting your car run for a longer period of time will cause the oil to get extremely hot.

Step 2
Locate the drain plug and place a container large enough to catch all the old oil under it. You may need to lift your car using a ramp or jack. Unscrew (you will probably need a socket wrench) the drain plug and be sure to use either rags or gloves to protect your hands. The old oil will begin to drain out. You can put down some oil rags under and around the container just in case any oil spills. It will take a few minutes for all the oil to drain out. Once it has, screw the drain plug back in.

Step 3
Time to replace the oil filter. Depending on the make and model of your car, the filter can be located in different places. Remove the oil filter and let the oil drain out of it. Open the new oil and dip your finger into it. Then use your finger to put some oil on the gasket of your new filter. Follow the directions on filter to install it properly.

Step 4
Remove the cap from the oil filler hole. Slowly start filling it with oil. Stop when you have reached the full line. Put the oil filler cap back on.

Step 5
Run your car for up to 1 minute. Turn it off and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. This allows the oil to settle in your oil pan. Re-check the dip stick and add some more oil if it is not up to the fill line.

Step 6
Remove the container full of your old oil and put it into an empty container. Find a facility that will dispose of your old oil for you.
If you are uncomfortable performing an oil change on your vehicle on your own, schedule an appointment with Middle Country Autmotive for an oil change service in Centereach, NY or Selden, NY.