Optimizing Performance: CarHub's Essential Guide to Oil Changes
Posted on May 4, 2021
Do you know what is the easiest thing in the world to do? It’s to bring your vehicle into CarHub to let a certified technician perform an oil change for you.
Taking care of and understanding your driving machine makes you a better driver, leads to better vehicle maintenance, and keeps a high standard of vehicles on the road, which is better and safer for everybody.
As big believers in regular car maintenance and education, we want to give you our car maintenance tips, including a breakdown of how to change car oil.
Know When You Should Change Engine Oil
Your car's engine oil is essential for its health. And while it lubricates parts, it also gathers debris. Regular oil changes are a must to keep your engine running smoothly, usually every three months or 3,000 miles, although synthetic oil users may go longer.
While some cars have electronic systems signaling when it's time for an oil change, it's smart not to depend solely on them. Consulting your car's manual is recommended for precise advice on timing and oil type.
Step-by-Step Oil Change Instructions
Here’s our guide to a smooth oil change procedure to keep your car's engine happy and healthy.
1. Prepare Your Vehicle for an Oil Change
After driving, let your car cool for at least an hour, or if it's been sitting, take a brief drive before allowing it to cool.
- Park on a flat surface, engage the emergency brake, and ensure stability and proper placement if using a ramp or jack.
- Place protective material under the engine to protect your garage floor.
- Prioritize safety by never going under the car unless confident in the stability of your equipment.
- Remember to wear gloves and eye protection when handling engine oil and exercise caution around warm vehicle components.
With these precautions in place, you're ready to kick off your oil change journey.
2. Lift the Vehicle Safely
To access the oil pan drain plug, slide under the car. You can use a ramp or lift the car with a jack and secure it with jack stands.
3. Position the Catch Pan and Remove the Drain Plug
Place the catch pan strategically beneath the drain and ensure it's spacious enough to contain all the oil. As you loosen the drain plug with a socket wrench, reposition it accordingly, and then cautiously remove it by hand to prevent any misplacement amidst the flowing oil. Keep in mind that the oil might be hot, so exercise caution during this step.
4. Inspect the Vehicle While Allowing Oil to Drain
While the oil is draining, which usually takes a few minutes, take this opportunity to inspect various parts of your car. It's a good moment to ensure everything is in good condition.
5. Reinstall the Drain Plug and Apply the Torque
Now, it's time to put things back together. Reinstall the drain plug and give it a good torque. Wipe down the drain plug and the threads on the oil pan, taking a moment to check the plug threads' condition – swap it out if anything seems off.
Once the oil has finished draining, pop the drain plug back into its spot. Grab your socket wrench and tighten it just like your owner's manual recommends.
6. Remove the Old Oil Filter
Now, let’s remove the old oil filter. Locate it on your car and twist it by hand or use an oil filter wrench to remove the cap. Remember that the filter might still hold some oil, so handle it carefully, considering its position.
7. Clean Mount and Remove the Old O-Ring
Clean the mount thoroughly and ensure the old O-ring is completely removed. Check that the O-ring from the previous filter isn't still sticking to the engine mounting plate, and clear away any residue from the mounting plate for a clean and smooth surface.
8. Apply Lubrication to the New Filter and Attach It by Hand
Gently apply a bit of fresh oil to the O-ring area of the new filter to make installing it easier. Screw the filter onto the engine mounting plate by hand.
Usually, filters are tightened three-quarters to one full turn after the filter's O-ring touches the engine, but it's always a good idea to double-check the filter's instructions for precise guidance.
9. Remove the Oil Fill Cap and Add Fresh Oil
Take off the oil fill cap and pour in the fresh oil. Check your owner's manual to find the right oil type and amount for your car. When adding oil, take off the oil fill cap, and to keep things neat, use a funnel to pour in the suggested quantity.
10. Install the Oil Fill Cap and Begin the Engine
Put back the oil fill cap and kickstart the engine. Allow it to run idle for a good thirty seconds, giving you the perfect window to check the drain plug and filter zones for any sneaky oil leaks. If you spot any leaks, don’t hesitate to immediately shut the engine down and get those fixes sorted.
11. Stop the Engine, Lower the Vehicle, and Check the Dipstick Level
Turn off the engine and wait for 30 seconds before checking the oil level. Once the car is lowered, use a cloth to clean the dipstick thoroughly after pulling it out.
Put it back in, then pull it out again to check the oil level. Compare the oil level on the dipstick to the recommended range. If it's low, add more oil until it reaches the level suggested in your car manual. Think of it as a quick health check for your car, making sure it has the perfect amount of oil for a smooth drive.
Additional Pro Tips for Mastering the Oil Change Process
Discover easy tips for a hassle-free oil change. Whether you enjoy tinkering with your car or simply like staying informed, consider this your go-to guide.
- For a cold engine, give it a five-minute warm-up; for a hot one, wait at least 30 minutes to avoid burns.
- Stick to the right tools – use the proper-sized box-end wrench for the drain plug, avoiding adjustable wrenches.
- Always employ jack stands; never rely on just a jack when working under your car.
- Prior to installation, coat the oil filter gasket with new oil.
- Hand-tighten the filter; avoid filter wrenches.
- Discover nearby oil and oil filter recycling centers on earth911.com or through a quick internet search.
- Line up your oil bottles beforehand to keep track during the fill-up – no more guessing games. It's time to make your oil change into a smooth ride from start to finish.
The Significance of Regular Car Oil Changes
Regular oil changes aren't just a task; they're vital for keeping your car running smoothly.
Here's why it matters:
1. Cleaner Emissions
Giving your car regular oil changes is a small step that makes a significant difference in reducing harmful engine emissions. It's a little effort for your vehicle but a giant leap for the environment.
2. Improved Gas Mileage
As gas prices soar, every drop counts. Consistent oil changes enhance fuel efficiency, guaranteeing you achieve more mileage from every liter and ultimately saving you money in the long term.
3. Extended Engine Life
Keeping your engine well-maintained makes it last longer. When you get regular oil changes, you ensure your engine has clean, debris-free oil, which adds to your car's overall lifespan.
4. Enhanced Engine Performance
Taking good care of your engine has a positive chain reaction. It means cleaner emissions, improved gas mileage, and a longer-lasting engine. A well-maintained engine runs efficiently, giving you more miles per gallon, emitting fewer pollutants, and making sure your car stays on the road for a longer time.
Choosing Between Synthetic and Regular Engine Oil
Choosing between synthetic and regular oil for your car impacts both how your engine performs and your budget.
Here's a breakdown:
- Regular Oil: This oil comes from crude oil, gets refined, and then boosted with extras for better performance. Plus, it's usually easier on your wallet.
- Synthetic Oil: An artificially created chemical compound blending conventional and human-made oil. Although pricier, it boasts a longer lifespan, better engine performance, and lower pollution.
While it's a good idea to stick to what the manufacturer suggests, research shows that synthetic oil comes with some great perks. Just remember, it does cost more—around two to three times the price of regular oil.
How Much Does an Oil Change Cost?
Curious about oil change prices? Well, it depends on where you go and the type of oil you pick. In Ontario, you're looking at about $100 for regular oil changes (typically between $80 and $110) and roughly $130 for synthetic oil changes (ranging from $120 to $140) and for Diesel, that can cost you about $240.
It's a modest investment to keep your car's engine running smoothly and avoid more expensive repairs down the road.
Don't Let Your Engine Suffer - Supercharge Your Vehicle's Performance with an Oil Change at CarHub
Prioritizing regular oil changes is crucial for optimizing your vehicle's performance and ensuring its longevity. Now that you know how to do it, you may still choose to leave it to a professional though, for the sake of time and ease.
If that’s the case, you can make an appointment today for an oil change and general car service with a CarHub registered technician! Contact us now.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Changing Oil
Can I recycle used oil filters?
No, it's best to avoid reusing oil filters. Swap them out with each oil change for optimal performance.
Can I do an oil change without using a jack?
Absolutely. No need for a jack; just ensure there's ample space to reach the oil drain and filter.
What if I don't change my car's oil regularly?
Skipping oil changes can result in reduced engine performance, more wear and tear, and the risk of expensive engine damage over time. Keep it regular for a smoother ride!