How to Change the Oil and Oil Filter (with Detailed Demonstration Pictures)

Maintenance
Perhaps the PM service that is best known to the public is changing the engine’s oil and filter. Because oil is the lifeblood of an engine, it is critical that the oil and filter are changed on a regular basis. These photo sequence show the steps involved in changing the engine oil and oil filter. Whenever doing this, make sure the oil is the correct rating for the vehicle.

1. Always make sure the vehicle is positioned safely on a lift or supported by jack stands before working under it. Before raising the vehicle, allow the engine to run awhile. After it is warm, turn off the engine.

2. The tools and other items needed to change the engine’s oil and oil filter are rags, a funnel, an oil filter wrench, safety glasses, and a wrench for the drain plug.

3. Place the oil drain pan under the drain plug before beginning to drain the oil.

4. Loosen the drain plug with the appropriate wrench. After the drain plug is loosened, quickly remove it so the oil can freely drain from the oil pan.

5. Make sure the drain pan is positioned so it can catch all of the oil.

6. While the oil is draining, use an oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the oil filter.

7. Make sure the oil filter seal came off with the filter. Then place the filter into the drain pan so it can drain. After it has completely drained, discard the filter according to local regulations.

8. Wipe off the oil filter sealing area on the engine block. Then apply a coat of clean engine oil onto the new filter’s seal.

9. Install the new filter and handtighten it. Oil filters should be tightened according to the directions given on the filter.

10. Prior to installing the drain plug, wipe off its threads and sealing surface with a clean rag.

11. Tighten the drain plug according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Overtightening can cause thread damage, whereas undertightening can cause an oil leak.

12. With the oil filter and drain plug installed, lower the vehicle and remove the oil filter cap.

13. Carefully pour the oil into the engine. The use of a funnel usually keeps oil from spilling on the engine.

14. After the recommended amount of oil has been put in the engine, check the oil level.

15. Start the engine and allow it to reach normal operating temperature. While the engine is running, check the engine for oil leaks, especially around the oil filter and drain plug. If there is a leak, shut down the engine and correct the problem.

16. After the engine has been turned off, recheck the oil level and correct it as necessary.