Changing your vehicle’s oil and oil filter regularly is one of the most important maintenance tasks you can do to keep your car or truck running well. Replacing old, dirty oil and the filter helps remove contaminants and sludge to keep critical engine parts properly lubricated and operating at peak performance.
An oil change is a relatively straightforward process that most drivers can do themselves at home with basic tools and supplies. However, you do need to have the proper equipment on hand before getting started.
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Essential Items Needed
Here are the key items you’ll need to change your vehicle’s oil filter successfully:
- Oil filter wrench or oil filter pliers
- Drain pan
- Rags or paper towels
- Jack and jack stands (for access underneath the vehicle)
- Crawler (optional for access underneath)
- New oil filter
- New engine oil (check your owner’s manual for the recommended type and amount)
- Ratchet, extension, and socket (to remove drain plug)
- Funnel
- Safety equipment – gloves, safety glasses, etc.
Having these basic tools and parts on hand before starting the oil change will help the job go much smoother and take less time. You may also want to lay down cardboard or a tarp to catch any spilled oil.
What Purpose Does Each Item Serve?
Now let’s look at what each item is used for during a routine oil filter change:
Oil Filter Wrench
This specialty wrench (sometimes called an oil filter plier) grips the outside of the oil filter so you can turn it to loosen and unscrew it from the engine block. Oil filters are screwed on very tightly, so using the proper wrench gives you the leverage and grip needed to remove them.
Drain Pan
A drain pan, which may also be called a drip pan, is placed below the oil drain plug and oil filter to safely capture the used oil as it drains out of the engine. Drain pans come in various sizes, with a capacity of 4-6 quarts sufficient for most vehicles. The pan catches the dirty oil so you can safely dispose of it later.
Rags/Paper Towels
Having rags or paper towels on hand allows you to wipe up any oil drips during the oil change process. It’s a good idea to have a supply so you can thoroughly clean the drain plug, oil filter mounting area, dipstick, and other areas to prevent new oil from mixing with old dirty oil.
Jack and Jack Stands
Safely raising your vehicle off the ground provides access underneath to reach the oil drain plug and oil filter. Jack stands support the vehicle once it’s lifted. Ensure the jack and jack stands are properly rated for the weight of your vehicle before using.
Crawler (Optional)
A crawler, also known as a creeper, is a wheeled device that lets you lie on your back and slide under a raised vehicle. This provides better access if you need to get your hands up close to the oil drain and filter areas. Crawlers provide more comfort and flexibility than lying on the ground.
New Oil Filter
Don’t start the oil change without having a new replacement oil filter on hand. Oil filters should be replaced each time the oil is changed. Use a filter that meets the specifications for your vehicle’s year, make and model.
New Engine Oil
You’ll also need 5-7 quarts of new oil to refill your engine after draining out the old oil. Refer to your owner’s manual to determine how much and what viscosity oil your vehicle requires. Most modern vehicles use 5W-30 synthetic or synthetic blend oil.
Ratchet, Socket, and Extension
A ratchet, socket, and extension bar allow you to loosen and remove the oil drain plug. Breaking it loose by hand can be nearly impossible. The socket size (commonly 14mm or 17mm) depends on your vehicle. An extension provides better reach and leverage.
Funnel
A funnel placed into the engine oil fill hole guides the new oil into place smoothly and cleanly, preventing spills and splatters.
Safety Equipment
Oil changes involve slippery fluids, heavy vehicles on jacks, and hot exhaust components. Therefore, safety gear like work gloves, protective eye wear, and thick clothes are recommended. Work gloves improve grip and protect hands from sharp edges. Glasses prevent hot splatters if oil sprays out unexpectedly. Thick jeans and long sleeves also help avoid burns.
Step-by-Step Oil Filter Change Process
Now that you understand what equipment you need, follow these key steps to safely change your oil filter:
- Position your vehicle on level ground and apply parking brake.
- Jack up front of vehicle (refer to owner’s manual for proper jacking points) and place jack stands underneath frame rails. Lower vehicle onto stands.
- Slide drain pan underneath oil drain plug area.
- Use ratchet and socket to loosen and remove drain plug. Allow oil to fully drain into pan.
- Locate oil filter and use filter wrench or pliers to turn counterclockwise and loosen.
- Unscrew filter by hand and allow remaining oil to drain. Use rag to wipe mounting surface clean.
- Apply thin coat of fresh oil to new filter gasket. Screw on new filter by hand until gasket contacts mounting surface.
- Reinstall drain plug and tighten securely with ratchet and socket.
- Lower vehicle off stands by raising jack. Then remove jack stands and jack.
- Add specified amount of new oil through engine fill hole using funnel. Check dipstick for proper level.
- Start engine and check for any leaks. Allow oil to circulate before rechecking level.
- Properly dispose of used filter and old oil.
Carefully following these steps using the outlined equipment will allow you to successfully change your oil filter each maintenance interval.
Recommended Maintenance Intervals
Most automakers recommend changing your vehicle’s oil filter every time the oil is changed. This is part of routine maintenance that keeps your engine operating at peak efficiency and performance.
The frequency of oil and filter changes depends on your driving habits and conditions. Here are some general guidelines:
| Driving Type | Miles Between Oil Changes |
|---|---|
| Normal Conditions | 5,000-7,500 |
| Severe Conditions | 3,000-5,000 |
Severe conditions include extensive idling, frequent towing, very hot or cold weather, and driving on dirt or dusty roads. Always consult your owner’s manual because some automakers have vehicles that can go 10,000 miles or more between changes with synthetic oil.
DIY or Professional Service
While changing your oil filter is something you can learn to do yourself, you may instead opt to have it done by a professional technician. Most repair shops and quick lube chains will change your filter when performing an oil change service.
Benefits of DIY oil filter changes:
- Cost savings from supplies versus paying for labor
- Convenience of working on your own schedule
- Satisfaction of taking care of your own vehicle
Benefits of professional oil filter changes:
- Specialized experience and efficiency
- Proper disposal of used oil/filters
- No need to handle or store supplies
- Maintenance records from shop
Your choice may come down to your mechanical skill and willingness to take on DIY maintenance. Either way, having the oil and filter changed regularly is critical.
Conclusion
Changing your vehicle’s oil filter is easy to do yourself if you have the proper tools and supplies on hand. The key items needed include an oil filter wrench, drain pan, jack and jack stands, new filter, new oil, and basic tools like a ratchet and socket set.
Safely jacking up your vehicle provides access to the underside where the oil drain plug and filter are located. Always wear protective gloves and eyewear when handling oil. Dispose of used filters and oil properly. Remember to check your owner’s manual for the service intervals recommended for your driving conditions.
Performing a timely oil and filter change using the right equipment will extend engine life and maintain performance. Your ride depends on good lubrication, so don’t skip this critical maintenance task.
Changing oil filters is a basic automotive task that any do-it-yourselfer can handle at home. However, if you prefer the convenience of professional service, repair shops can handle the job efficiently. Either way, staying on top of scheduled oil changes will keep your engine clean and running great for years to come.
An oil change with filter replacement every 5,000-7,500 miles is recommended for most driving conditions. Shorter 3,000-5,000 mile intervals are ideal for severe service such as frequent towing, extensive idling, or very hot or cold operation. Check your owner’s manual because some newer vehicles can go up to 10,000 miles between changes with synthetic oil.
Don’t put off or skip recommended oil changes. Over time, old contaminated oil can lead to accelerated wear, sludge build-up, and even engine damage. The small investment of a timely oil and filter change pays big dividends in extended engine life and optimized fuel economy and performance.
Be sure to track oil change intervals and keep receipts for proof of maintenance. Changing the oil filter yourself requires having the right tools like an oil filter wrench, drain pan, jack stands, ratchet and socket, and safety equipment. Alternatively, repair shops can perform the oil and filter replacement as part of routine maintenance.
Regular oil and filter changes are one of the best ways to protect your vehicle’s engine and keep it running smoothly for many miles. The modest investment in parts and time is money well spent compared to the high cost of major engine repairs or replacement.
Don’t let old, dirty oil undermine your engine performance and longevity. Equip yourself with the essential tools and knowledge for DIY oil filter changes. Or rely on experienced technicians to handle this maintenance task. Either way, make oil and filter replacement at the manufacturer’s recommended intervals part of caring for your vehicle.
Changing your car or truck’s engine oil and oil filter is one of the most important things you can do to protect engine life and performance. While new vehicles can go 5,000-10,000 miles between oil changes, the oil filter still needs to be replaced at least once per change interval. Driving under severe conditions requires changing the oil and filter more frequently.
Doing it yourself requires being prepared with the proper equipment to safely access the oil drain plug and filter. An oil filter wrench or pliers loosens the old filter for removal. Jacks and jack stands safely lift the vehicle for access underneath. Other essentials include oil drain pan, funnel, ratchet and socket for the plug, and protective equipment like gloves and eye wear.
When performing an oil change, the filter should always be replaced with a new one. Make sure to lubricate the filter gasket before installation. Then properly dispose of the used oil and filter. For convenience, many choose to have oil and filter changes done by a professional technician.
Either way, staying on top of this routine maintenance provides big dividends for your engine and vehicle longevity. The small initial investment saves much larger repair costs down the road.