A Step-by-Step Guide to Performing a DIY Oil Change with Valvoline

Changing your car’s oil yourself can be a rewarding and cost-saving experience. Valvoline offers a wide range of motor oils and oil change essentials to make the process smooth. Here’s a detailed guide to performing a DIY oil change with Valvoline products, complete with safety precautions and tips for a mess-free experience.

Safety First: Gather Your Supplies and Prepare Your Workspace

• Safety Essentials: Before you begin, prioritize safety. Wear gloves, safety glasses, and closed-toe shoes. Have rags on hand to clean up spills.
• Valvoline Products: Select the appropriate Valvoline motor oil for your car’s engine using the Valvoline oil finder tool. You’ll also need a new oil filter compatible with your vehicle and a drain pan to catch the used oil.
• Tools: Assemble the necessary tools: wrenches (to fit your drain plug and oil filter), a socket wrench (optional), a funnel, and an oil filter wrench (if your filter is difficult to remove by hand).

Getting Started: Draining the Used Oil

1. Warm Up the Engine: Run the engine for 5-10 minutes to warm up the oil, making it drain more easily. Turn off the engine and ensure the car is parked on a level surface.
2. Locate the Drain Plug: Consult your car’s owner’s manual to locate the oil drain plug. Place the drain pan directly underneath the plug.
3. Loosen the Drain Plug: Carefully loosen the drain plug with the appropriate wrench. Be prepared for oil to flow out quickly. It’s helpful to have someone assist you by holding the drain pan securely.
4. Let the Oil Drain Completely: Allow all the used oil to drain into the pan. This may take 10-15 minutes. While waiting, replace the drain plug with a new washer (if applicable) and tighten it snugly with the wrench.

Changing the Oil Filter

1. Locate the Oil Filter: Refer to your owner’s manual to find the oil filter’s location. It’s typically near the engine block.
2. Loosen the Oil Filter: Using the oil filter wrench or your hand (if possible), carefully loosen the filter counter-clockwise. Oil may drain out, so tilt the filter slightly to avoid spillage.
3. Remove the Old Filter: Once loose, remove the old filter completely. Place it upright in the drain pan to allow any remaining oil to drain out.
4. Apply Oil to the New Filter: Lightly coat the rubber gasket of the new filter with fresh oil from the new oil container.

Adding Fresh Oil and Finishing Up

1. Install the New Filter: Screw on the new oil filter by hand until snug. Avoid over-tightening.
2. Refill the Engine with Oil: Using the funnel, carefully pour the new Valvoline oil into the engine’s oil fill port. Refer to your car’s owner’s manual for the exact oil capacity.
3. Check the Oil Level: With the engine off, use the dipstick to check the oil level. Add oil in small quantities until it reaches the “full” mark on the dipstick. Don’t overfill.
4. Start the Engine and Check for Leaks: Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes. Look underneath the car for any leaks around the drain plug or oil filter. If you see leaks, turn off the engine immediately and address the issue.
5. Dispose of Used Oil Responsibly: Don’t throw used oil in the trash! Take it to a local recycling center or auto parts store for proper disposal. Valvoline offers oil recycling programs at some locations; check their website for details https://www.skipthebill.com/at/valvoline.com.

Tips for a Successful DIY Oil Change:

• Choose the Right Oil: Using the wrong oil viscosity can harm your engine. Double-check your car’s owner’s manual or use the Valvoline oil finder tool for the recommended oil type.
• Work in a Well-Lit Area: Good lighting helps you see what you’re doing and avoid mistakes.
• Contain the Mess: Use a large enough drain pan to catch all the used oil. Place cardboard or newspaper under the engine to catch any drips.
• Clean Up Spills Immediately: Clean up any oil spills with rags to prevent them from staining your driveway.
• Keep Records: Maintain a record of your oil changes.

In conclusion, performing a DIY oil change with Valvoline products can be a cost-effective way to maintain your car. By following these steps carefully, prioritizing safety, and utilizing the provided tips, you can ensure a smooth and mess-free experience. Remember, refer to your car’s owner’s manual for specific details and consult a professional mechanic if you have any doubts or encounter difficulties. Happy wrenching!