When it is time to change your car’s oil, you have two options – either take it to nearest used car dealers in Dallas TX for professional services or do it yourself. Average costs of oil change range from $20 to $55 depending on whether you choose independent automobile shop or an authorized dealership. If you wish to save some bucks, then you may do it yourself. Even though changing oil isn’t rocket science, it is an important task that demands keen attention. Committing any mistakes will turn the process into an ugly chore and expensive damages. So let us look into the step-by-step procedure given below to learn how to change the oil quickly.

Materials and tools required:

·  Car engine oil
·  Oil filter
·  Replacement drain plug washer (optional)
·  An oil filter wrench
·  A box end or socket wrench
·  A large oil drain pan
·  A funnel
·  Latex or rubber gloves
·  Ramps or jack stands (optional)


Step 1 – Buying the right oil and filter: Read the car’s owner’s manual to find more information about oil change procedures. Checking the manual will give you a better idea about the oil requirements and filter specifications. Moreover, it will provide you a schedule on when to change the oil and what type to use. Purchase the oil and filter based on the specifications.

Step 2: Prepare your car: Drive the car onto ramps or use jacks and jack stands to raise the car for better access. Car engine should be a bit warm. If the vehicle is hot, then wait for half an hour and if the car is tool cold, then start it and let it run for five minutes.

Step 3 - Locate the oil drain plug and drain the oil: Open the hood and locate the oil drain plug, which is typically at the bottom rear of the engine. Turn the plug counterclockwise using the wrench. Place the pan beneath to collect the dripping oil. Make sure to keep your hands out of the way as the oil is going to come out quick and warm.

Step 4 - Tighten the drain plug: Inspect the oil drain plug and replace the plug washer, if necessary. Tighten the plug properly with a wrench.

Step 5 – Change the oil filter: Locate the filter assembly and unscrew the oil filter. Start it by using a filter wrench and complete the removal by hand. Go slowly to avoid spillage and tip its contents into the drain pan. Take the new filter and smear a dab of new replacement oil on its gasket ring. Screw on the new oil filter carefully. In general, you don’t tighten oil filters more than three-quarters of a turn to a full turn beyond the point where gasket touches the sealing surface. Hence, it is better to consult the owner’s manual for confirming the specifications.

Step 6 – Add the new clean oil: Check the car manual to find out the recommended amount of oil. Use a funnel to pour new oil into the fill hole on the engine. Make use of a dipstick to confirm the oil fill levels. Replace the filler cap and wipe up the spills.

Step 7 - Test driving the vehicle: Lower the car off the jack stands or ramps. Start the engine and run it for a minute. Look for any drips or leaks. After turning off the car, recheck the oil levels using a dipstick to ensure the proper oil level.

Extending the life of your automobile, routine oil change and filter replacements cut down the chances of unexpected breakdowns and repairs. Some of the undeniable benefits of regular car oil change include better engine performance, clean engines, better fuel economy and less harmful emissions.