When it was time for me to apply for my driver’s license, my father told me that I had to learn how to take care of a car. One of the first things he taught me was how to change the motor oil in a vehicle. Over the years it has saved me hundreds of dollars.

Changing motor oil involves draining the old oil from the engine and replacing it with new to keep the engine well lubricated. Oil should be changed every 5,000 kilometers. (3,000 miles) or whatever is specified for your vehicle in the Owner’s Manual. The oil filter should always be changed at the same time. This will help the engine in your vehicle to give you the best performance and make it last longer.

What you will need:

3/8 drive metric socket set

an old bucket or draining pan to catch the old oil (follow oil disposal laws)

oil filter wrench

sealing washer

funnel

plastic re-sealable bag

combination wrench set (includes both open and closed end wrenches)

plenty of old rags

empty containers or jugs with screw-on tops

new oil filter

oil to refill the engine (check owner’s manual for quantity and grade) (brand names are best)

Note: Never use synthetic oil unless specifically called for in the owner’s manual.