How to change engine oil Good quality and clean engine oil is essential to the maintenance of your engine. Regular oil changes

will not only help maintain your engine but will promote more mileage and a longer vehicle life.

Changing the engines oil is a relatively simple process that can save

some money, you will only need a couple of tools and some physical

ability.

When performing an oil change you should always change the oil

filter at the same time.

What you'll need to change your oil

Oil filter wrench

Oil pan or suitable container

A clean funnel

A new oil filter

The correct new Oil

A clean cloth or rag/towel you don't mind getting dirty

How to change the engine oil

Research recommended tools and oil type

Be sure to park on a flat, level surface and allow plenty of time for the vehicle cool down

Jack the vehicle up on the jacking points and place axel stands underneath for safety

Open the bonnet and remove the oil filler cap on the top of the engine

Carefully position yourself underneath the vehicle and find the sump plug, using the correct

size/tool. The most commonly used is a Torx screwdriver or Allen Key.

Release the sump plug slowly.

Remember to take care, the oil could be hot and flow quickly

When draining the oil use a container to catch the oil and make

sure it is large enough to hold the amount of oil

Once the oil slows locate and remove the oil filter. Do this by hand

or if it’s not possible to turn by hand use the oil filter wrench.

Ensure the rubber gasket “O” ring is also removed

Once the oil has finished draining re-secure the sump plug

beginning by hand, be careful to not cross the threading of the

bolt

Position and refit the new oil filter and “o” ring rubber gasket

correctly. Pour some oil into the filter and use the filter wrench

and tighten, do not over tighten.

Using a funnel introduce the new oil and refill to manufacturer recommendations and securely

tighten the oil fill cap back on

Start the engine and run for up to 30 seconds, turn the engine off and check the oil level, top up

the oil as before if needed

Start the vehicle again and run for longer and perform the check again. Watch for warning lights

and look underneath the car for any leaking

If there are no steps that need to be repeated reposition the jacks, remove the axel stands and

set the vehicle back down.

After driving the car check the oil level once it has cooled down and on a level surface.

Do this several times over the next couple of days just to make sure the oil level is as required.

You can read more on vehicle maintenance and head gasket repair here