Car maintenance items you’ll need to check and change your car’s oil
Gather your supplies, including:- Vehicle user manual
- Protective gear including safety glasses, and old clothing
- Cleaning rags
- Wrench set with a box end wrench
- Oil drain pan or something similar to catch the drained oil
- Container and a funnel for the used oil
- Gasket (if you need to replace the old one)
- Oil filter
- New engine oil
How to check and change your car’s oil
1. Read through this list of instructions and familiarize yourself with all the steps before you start 2. Consult your vehicle’s user manual and determine where the different parts are situated in your car. Look for the oil fill cap, oil drain plug and oil filter 3. Ensure that your car’s engine is cold and turned off. Engage the parking brake and check that you can safely get under the car with your supplies 4. Open the hood of the car and unscrew the oil fill cap 5. Position yourself underneath the car and find the oil drain plug 6. Place a drain pan underneath the oil drain plug and slowly start unscrewing the drain plug 7. Once the drain plug is loose enough to move, remove it and pull it aside quickly to prevent it from obstructing the flow of oil 8. Wait for a few minutes until all the oil has drained 9. Replace the oil drain plug, installing a new gasket if the old one is worn 10. Move the drain pan underneath the oil filter 11. Remove the oil filter with its gasket 12. Use some of the new engine oil to coat the gasket to ensure a better seal 13. Install and tighten the air filter according to the instructions in your vehicle’s user manual 14. Fill the oil tank with new engine oil via the oil fill cap located in the engine (not underneath the car) and replace the oil fill cap 15. Start the engine and check underneath the car to ensure that there aren’t any oil spills 16. Switch the engine off, open the hood of the car and check the oil dipstick to ensure that there is enough oil in the tankFor more car maintenance tips or to book your next vehicle service with CRS Automotive in Hamilton Ontario, click here.We are located only 5 min driving North of St. Peter’s Hospital – Hamilton Health Sciences and 6 min driving North of Gage Park.Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I check my car’s oil level?
Check your oil at least once a month and before any long trips. Also check after extended driving under heavy load or towing. Regular checks help detect leaks or abnormal consumption early and ensure proper engine lubrication.
Can I change my car’s oil myself following CRS Automotive’s steps?
Yes, you can perform an oil change yourself if you have the proper tools, a suitable workspace, safety gear and follow the vehicle owner’s manual. Follow the steps provided: locate the drain plug and filter, drain the oil, replace gaskets as needed, install a new filter, refill with the correct oil and confirm level with the dipstick.
What supplies do I need to change my car’s oil safely?
You’ll need the vehicle owner’s manual, safety glasses and protective clothing, cleaning rags, a wrench set, an oil drain pan, a container and funnel for used oil, a replacement gasket if needed, a new oil filter and the correct type and amount of engine oil for your vehicle.
How do I dispose of used engine oil properly?
Collect used oil in a sealed container and take it to a licensed recycling center, municipal hazardous waste facility or an auto shop that accepts used oil. Do not pour oil onto the ground, into drains or garbage — improper disposal is harmful to the environment and often illegal.
When should I have a professional at CRS Automotive perform my oil change?
Choose professional service if you lack tools or a safe workspace, are unsure about the correct oil type or filter, encounter leaks or warning lights, or prefer convenience and warranty-safe service. CRS Automotive offers full-service oil changes, inspections and can advise on intervals for your specific vehicle.
