Getting Down & Dirty

By Sarah Hall

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.' $65? For an oil change? Personally, I am too broke to spend that much money on something I can do myself. Some auto shops scam customers by overcharging for an oil change because they are ignorant of the process. It may seem intimidating to take on the process by yourself for the first time, but there are plenty of videos to guide you and it is way cheaper to do it yourself. Worst case scenario, you can get yourself a friend who can do it for you.

First things first, don’t try to wing it. Do your research, look at your car manual, and figure out all the supplies you need for your specific car.

Supplies include:

-Oil. What kind and amount can be found in car manual

-Oil filter

-Drain pan

-Wrench

-Ratchet and socket set

-Pliers

-Funnel

-Gloves

-Light

-Jack and stand if you have a car low to the ground

Once you’ve researched the task for your specific vehicle, you can start following the steps. 

Step 1: Lift your car if it is low to the ground and you can't get under it.

Step 2: Remove the plastic undertray using the needed tools

Step 3: Unplug the oil receptacle to let in the drain, making sure you have the drain pan  

underneath to catch the liquid.

Step 4: Remove the old filter, starting slowly to let it drain, and then remove it the whole way 

once the liquid stops flowing. Make sure the rubber ring isn’t left behind by the filter.

Step 5: Replace the filter and put the drain plug back on.

Step 6: Reinstall the undertray of the car.

Step 7: Lower the jack, if used, back to the ground.

Step 8: Open the hood of your car and remove the oil cap, it has an oil can symbol on the top.

Step 9: Using a funnel, fill the receptacle with new oil, making sure you are using the right 

amount.

Step 10: Start your vehicle and let it run for 10 seconds to get the oil circulating.

Step 11: Use the dipstick to check the level of your oil and check underneath your car for leaks

If you have the supplies, can follow a video, and are determined, you can pretty much do or learn anything. I'm willing to get down and dirty if it means I don't have to spend a ton of money on it.