How to Change Your Oil: The Complete Guide (No Expensive Tools)

How to Change Your Oil

This guide covers everything you need to know about how to change oil. We've researched the most common causes, real diagnostic procedures, and actual repair costs. This is one of the most searched automotive repair topics (300K+/month), so we've made it comprehensive.

Tools You'll Need

  • Oil filter wrench
  • Drain pan (6+ quarts)
  • Funnel
  • Jack and jack stands or ramps
  • Torque wrench
  • Oil (correct viscosity)
  • Oil filter
  • Drain plug gasket/washer
  • Gloves
  • Shop towels

Parts & Estimated Costs

Part Cost Recommended Brands
Engine oil (check owner's manual for viscosity) $25-60 Mobil 1, Castrol, Valvoline, Pennzoil
Oil filter $5-15 OEM, Wix, Mobil 1, K&N
Drain plug washer $1-5 OEM, Dorman

Step-by-Step Repair

  1. Warm engine for 2-3 minutes (warm oil drains faster)
  2. Park on level ground, set parking brake
  3. Locate oil drain plug and oil filter
  4. Position drain pan under plug
  5. Loosen drain plug with correct size socket/wrench
  6. Remove plug by hand quickly - oil will be hot
  7. Let oil drain completely (5-10 minutes)
  8. Inspect drain plug and replace washer if crushed
  9. Reinstall drain plug - torque to spec (usually 20-30 ft-lbs)
  10. Position drain pan under oil filter
  11. Remove old filter with filter wrench
  12. Clean filter mounting surface
  13. Apply thin film of new oil to new filter gasket
  14. Install new filter hand-tight + 1/4 to 1/2 turn
  15. Add new oil through filler cap - check dipstick
  16. Start engine, check for leaks around drain plug and filter
  17. Check oil level again after 1 minute, top up if needed
  18. Reset oil life monitor if equipped
  19. Record mileage and date for next change

Oil Viscosity Guide

Viscosity Common Applications Type
0W-20 Newer Toyota, Honda, Nissan Synthetic or blend
5W-30 Most American, older imports Conventional or synthetic
5W-20 Ford, Chrysler, some Honda Conventional or synthetic
10W-30 Older high-mileage engines Conventional

Pro Tips

  • Use the oil viscosity from your owner's manual - not what's on sale
  • Synthetic oil lasts longer but costs more - follow your manual
  • Never over-tighten the oil filter - hand tight is enough
  • Save receipts - some warranties require proof of oil changes

Service Manuals for Your Vehicle

Every repair is easier with the factory service manual. Here are the manuals we carry for vehicles commonly affected by this issue:

Toyota Camry

Honda Civic

Ford F-150

Nissan Altima

Chevrolet Silverado

When to Get the Full Service Manual

This guide covers the general process, but every vehicle is different. Torque specs, wiring diagrams, and procedures specific to your year and model are in the factory service manual. For $49, you get the exact procedures the dealership mechanics use—including torque specs, fluid capacities, wiring diagrams, and diagnostic flowcharts.

Browse all service manuals →

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