Engine Oil & Filter Change

Frequent oil changes may be the best form of preventive maintenance available to the home mechanic.  When engine oil ages, it becomes diluted and contaminated, which leads to premature engine wear.

1) With the engine oil warm (warm engine oil will drain better and more built-up sludge will be removed with the oil), raise and support the vehicle on axle stands.
2) Place a drain pan (I use an old washing up bowl) under the drain plug.  Keep in mind that the oil will initially flow from the sump with some force, soposition the bowl accordingly.  I also have to remove the sump guard.
3) Being careful not to touch any of the hot exhaust components, use a wrench to remove the drain plug near the bottom of the sump.  Keep hold of the nut, do not let it drop into the oil, and be careful as the engine oil is hot.
4) Allow the old oil to drain into the bowl.  It may be necessary to move the bowl further under the engine as the oil flow slows to a trickle.  You may need to lower the vehicle, to get the last bit out.
5) After all the oil has drained, wipe of the drain plug with a clean cloth/rag.  Small metal particles may cling to the plug and would immediately contaminate the new oil.
6) Clean the area around the drain plug opening and reinstall the plug / nut.
7) Move the drain bowl into position under the oil filter.
8) Use an Oil filter remover to loosen the oil filter
9) Completely unscrew the old filter. Be careful, it is full of oil, Empty the oil inside into the bowl.
10) Use a clean rag to remove all oil, dirt and sludge from the area where the oil filter mounts to the engine.  Check the old filter to make sure that the rubber gasket is not stuck to the engine mounting surface.  If the gasket is stuck to the engine, remove it!
11) Apply a light coat of oil around the full circumference of the rubber gasket of the new oil filter.
12) Attach the new filter to the engine. This should be done finger tight, or even better to the correct torque setting.
13) Remove the bowl, and lower vehicle.
14) Remove the engine filler cap,  Use a funnel when pouring the new oil in.  Some oil tubs have built in funnels.  Use as necessary.  Pour three quarters of fresh oil into the engine.  Wait a few minutes to allow the oil to sink down the engine.  Then check the level of oil on the dipstick.  If the oil level is at or near the F / Full Mark, start engine and allow the new oil to circulate.  Run engine for only about a minute and then shut it off.  Immediately look under the vehicle and check for leaks at the oil sump drain plug and around the oil filter.  If either is leaking, tighten with a bit more force.
15) With the new oil circulated and the filter now completely full, recheck the level on the dipstick and add enough oil to bring the level to the F / Full mark on the engine.  (I Do mine just under)
16) During the first few trips after an oil change, make it a point to check frequently for leaks and proper oil level.