How to Change the Oil in Your Car (the Right Way)

Summary

In this video, Scotty Kilmer demonstrates how to properly change oil in modern cars. He explains the differences between older and newer engines, emphasizing the importance of using the correct type of oil (synthetic for newer vehicles) and quality filters. Scotty provides practical tips on tools, removing the drain plug, replacing the oil filter, and correctly measuring the oil to ensure the engine runs smoothly. He also advises on recycling used oil responsibly. This guide is ideal for car owners looking to maintain their vehicle’s engine health and save on maintenance costs with a DIY oil change.

Takeaways

• 😀 Older cars use conventional motor oil and need oil changes every 3,000 miles.
• 😀 Modern cars with features like variable valve timing require synthetic oils with lighter weights like 5w30.
• 😀 Synthetic oils are designed for tighter engine tolerances, and they last longer compared to conventional oils.
• 😀 Some cars that use 0w oil can go 10,000 miles or a full year between oil changes, as recommended by manufacturers.
• 😀 A quality oil filter is just as important as the right oil, with premium filters offering better filtration and longer durability.
• 😀 When choosing an oil filter, look for more pleats and better materials, such as composite paper, for superior dirt holding capacity.
• 😀 The anti-drainback valve in high-quality filters is made from metal, while cheaper ones use plastic, making the premium ones more reliable.
• 😀 Jacking up the car for an oil change requires caution. While some prefer using jack stands, the car is still safe if only the tires are off the ground.
• 😀 A long bar can help loosen tough drain plugs during oil changes, making the process easier.
• 😀 Always warm the engine before draining the oil to ensure smoother flow, but wait for about 10 minutes to avoid burns from hot oil.
• 😀 Used oil should be disposed of properly by taking it to a recycling center or an auto parts store that accepts it for recycling.

Q & A

What type of oil is recommended for older cars like the Toyota Celica?

Older cars like the Toyota Celica typically use conventional motor oil, which should be changed every 3,000 miles.

Why do modern cars require synthetic oil?

Modern cars require synthetic oil because it is lighter and better suited for tighter engine tolerances, which are common in modern engines with features like variable valve timing.

What is the recommended oil change interval for a 2007 Toyota Matrix?

For a 2007 Toyota Matrix, it's recommended to change the oil every 5,000 miles.

Why do some cars with 0W oil require oil changes only once a year or every 10,000 miles?

Cars using 0W oil typically have highly efficient engines and advanced oil formulations that allow for longer oil change intervals, as recommended by manufacturers like Toyota.

How can you tell if an oil filter is of better quality?

A better quality oil filter can be identified by its weight (it weighs more due to better filtration material), the type of seal (metal versus plastic), and the amount of pleating in the filter's material, which increases surface area for filtering.

What is the function of the anti-drain back valve in an oil filter?

The anti-drain back valve prevents oil from draining out of the filter when the engine is off, which helps maintain proper lubrication when the engine starts.

What safety precautions should you take when jacking up a modern car for an oil change?

While it's not always necessary to use a jack stand, you should always ensure the car is safely lifted and stable. The tires should remain on the ground to prevent injury in case the jack fails.

Why is it important to warm up the engine before changing the oil?

Warming up the engine helps the oil flow better, making it easier to drain. However, you should wait for about 10 minutes after turning off the engine to avoid burns from hot oil.

What should you do with the old oil after changing it?

The old oil should be poured into a sealed container and taken to a recycling center or an auto parts store that accepts used oil for proper disposal and recycling.

How can you ensure that the new oil filter seals properly during installation?

Before installing the new oil filter, wipe oil around the lip of the filter’s rubber seal to ensure a better seal and make it easier to remove during future oil changes.