One of the first things I ever learned how to do when it came to home mechanic work was the oil change. In this article, I’ll be showing you that this is easy to do with some simple tools. For the purpose of clarity, I am performing this procedure on my 2015 GMC 2500HD. Be aware that things such as filter type, filter location, and oil type will vary for each vehicle, but the premise is the same. This guide also does not cover vehicles with a “cartridge” or internal type oil filter.

Always ensure you have the right oil and filter for your vehicle. Oil information can either be found printed on the oil cap on the engine or in the owner’s manual. As for the filter, auto parts stores have directories in the filter aisle, or you can ask their helpful associates to assist you in finding the right parts. Each vehicle has a different oil capacity, so check your owner’s manual to find out how much oil you need to buy beforehand. It never hurts to have a little extra on hand though.

Tools You WILL Need

· Socket Set or Spanner Wrenches

· Oil Filter Wrench

· Drain Pan

· Funnel

· Paper Towels

Wait, that’s it? Yup real simple stuff. Sometimes you don’t even need the filter wrench but more than likely you will for removing the oil filter.

Step 1: Draining the Oil

First things first, never, and I mean never, perform an oil change on a vehicle that has recently been running. Parts and the oil will be hot to the touch and you could get seriously burned.

On vehicles that have a lower ride height, you will need to put the vehicle up on jack stands or ramps to perform this step.

· First, locate your oil pan on the bottom of the motor.

· Then find the drain plug typically located on the side or the rear of the oil pan itself.

· Select the appropriately sized wrench or socket for the drain plug.

· Place your drain pan beneath the drain plug, ensuring that the pan extends away from the plug to catch oil as it comes out.

· Loosen the drain plug with the wrench until it becomes loose enough to remove by hand.

· Check the position of the drain pan before removing the plug, then remove the plug and let the oil flow!

· Grab a beverage of your choice and sit back for a bit to allow the oil to completely drain.

· Once the oil is completely drained; replace the drain plug. Ensure that it is snug, but do not over-tighten as it could cause a leak by deforming the seal.

· Wipe off any excess oil from the oil pan.

· Position the drain pan under the oil filter.

· Take your filter wrench and turn the oil filter counterclockwise until it is removed.

· Place the oil filter, thread side down, in the drain pan and allow any oil to drain from the filter location for a few minutes.

· Once all oil has stopped flowing, clean the surface of the filter location of excess oil.

· Take your new oil filter and remove it from it’s packaging.

· Open your new oil and dip either your finger or a (clean) towel into it.

· With your freshly oiled finger (or towel) coat the surface of the rubber seal on the filter with a light film of oil. This helps to ensure a proper seal when installing the new filter.

· (optional) Some people fill their oil filters with new oil when installing. Personally, I have never done this, but I have seen it recommended before.

· Turn the oil filter clockwise until it is as tight as you can get it by hand. Oil filters are supposed to seal, but do not need to be tightened very much.

Now, a few helpful hints. If you are worried about staining the concrete or whatever surface you are working on. Find a large cardboard box to lay underneath the drain pan to catch any errant drips of oil. Another helpful but not necessary tip is to remove the oil fill cap on the engine before draining the oil. This allows the oil to flow out a little quicker, helping to get the job done sooner. Now, let’s finish the job.

After checking that the drain plug and new oil filter are properly installed, these are the steps to follow.

· Lower the vehicle off any ramps or jack stands. (if necessary)

· Remove the oil fill cap (if you didn’t already)

· Place the narrow end of the funnel into the oil fill location.

· Pour the new oil into the fill location until you have met the capacity of your engine.

· Allow a few minutes for the oil to settle into all the nooks and crannies that it needs to; then check the level on the dipstick.

· Pull the dipstick out and clean it off with a towel. Then, re-insert the dipstick, let it sit for a moment, then remove the dipstick and check the level again.

· After ensuring that you have the appropriate amount of oil in, remove your funnel and replace the oil fill cap.

· Check the underside of your vehicle for any leaks before starting the vehicle again and you’re done!

Congratulations! You’ve changed your own oil. Now, if it is your first time doing this, you may note that a local shop could have done it for less money. Bear in mind that you had to invest in tools to do the job. From now forward, you’ll have those tools on hand and will almost always be able to perform this bit of basic maintenance for less money, and in less time than if you had taken it to a shop.