Every automobile has a list of operations that needs to be performed on a regular basis to ensure its reliability and consistent performance.

Changing your oil is essentially done in the same manner on every passenger vehicle, although the locations of various parts may vary. If you understand the concept of how the lubrication system for your engine operates, you'll have much less trouble switching between makes and models. The goal of the oil to begin with, is to reduce friction between moving metal parts within your engine that will come into contact with one another. Friction causes heat and damage, so the oil is circulated constantly throughout the engine to prevent it. A properly lubricated engine will last you as long as you live, with nothing but periodic maintenance! Unfortunately, this simple operation is often overlooked or postponed for whatever reasons people come up with. This can and will lead to permanent engine damage if not taken care of.

Learning to perform this task yourself can save you money, gasoline, and time, but before you get started you should make sure you have all the necessary tools to complete this task. Any work done on a vehicle is made frustrating very quickly if you are not properly equipped to deal with what you are to encounter with.

Changing your oil is not difficult or complex, but there is a specialized tool that you will require. This certain tool is called a strap wrench, and they should be available at your local auto parts store for no more than five or six dollars. You'll also need the proper amount of oil for your vehicle (see owner's manual for the oil type your engine requires), a clean funnel, and a wrench that will fit around the oil drain plug bolt. This bolt is located on the bottom of the oil pan, which in turn resides underneath your engine. Avoid filters that contain cardboard-type elements, as they can sometimes clog very easily. This will cause problems elsewhere in the vehicle. Get a container that will catch and hold the amount of oil that is said to be in your vehicle's engine.

When you're ready to get started, first warm up your engine for a couple of minutes to get the oil hot and flowing freely, then turn your ignition off. Put your catch container underneath of the drain plug, being mindful of its angle. Remove the oil cap on the valve cover, then unscrew the drain plug and move your hand out of the way fast. Don't drop the plug in the oil! Once it's mostly drained, you can remove the filter using the strap wrench. Be careful, it is filled with roughly 3/4 quart of hot oil, so have a dirty rag underneath to catch whatever spills. Install the new filter as instructed on the box. Now all you have to do is screw your plug in, fill her up, and replace your cap! Be sure you dispose of all oil correctly after putting it in the empty oil bottles you just bought, and you're good to go!