Home mechanics can conduct regular oil changes, which are important for routine maintenance. Engine oil gets diluted and contaminated as it ages, thereby wearing the engine prematurely. Each time the oil is changed, make sure you use a new oil filter since it is inexpensive and simple to install. Before starting, collect all the tools required for the job together with clean rags and newspapers to clean up any spills. You should be able to reach the lower side of your car either by placing it on ramps or stands or lifting it up with a hoist. Find out where these parts are located under your car before proceeding further. First warm the engine up to operating temperature and gather all necessary tools and oil. Raise and support the vehicle with warmed engine oil in place safely. Place a drain pan below the loosened plug and take out this component using an open end wrench. Allow old oil to fall into the pan then wipe off both ends of the plug and tighten it again right away. Place a drain pan beneath the filter then unscrew it fully using a filter wrench. Remove any rubber gasket stuck on the engine and smear some fresh oil over its replacement gasket on your new filter. Pour some fresh oil inside this filter prior to firmly installing it according to its tightening specification. Lower the car's front end as you pour fresh oil through its filler opening at top of engine compartment so that air will not get trapped inside when done filling it up completely Pour 3 quarts of oil into engine; wait until it is drained into pan before checking level on dipstick; start briefly for leaks from plug/ filter at drain plug/oil check again adding more if needed throw several short trips check for leakage after every few times change dispose used one proper place such as reclamation center shop filling stations don't belong there.
