How to Change Your Own Oil: A Beginner’s Guide | Valvoline

You don’t have to be a mechanic to know how to change the oil in your own vehicle. It’s actually satisfying to know you can routinely change your own oil and keep your car in tip-top shape without visiting a mechanic.

It saves you money, teaches you how your engine works, and lets you choose the oil and filter that are best for your vehicle. Most first-timers finish the job in under an hour, and with each change, it gets faster and easier.

01What Tools and Supplies Do You Need for a DIY Oil Change?

No need to run out and buy a full car repair toolbox. Here’s the honest short list:

Your initial investment runs roughly $70-$100 one time. After that, each oil change costs only what you pay for oil and a filter, typically $25-$45 for a full synthetic job, compared to $70-$120 at a shop. Browse Valvoline’s full synthetic motor oil lineup to find the right viscosity and quantity for your vehicle before your first change.

02Picking the Right Motor Oil for Your Car

Luckily, you don’t have to guess which motor oil to use in your car. It’s easier than most people think. Open your glove box, find the owner’s manual, and look for the oil specification section. It will tell you the viscosity grade your engine requires, something like 5W-30, 0W-20, or 5W-20.

The first number (the "W" stands for winter) describes how the oil flows when your engine is cold. The second number describes protection at normal operating temperature. Using the grade your manufacturer specifies keeps your engine running the way it was designed.

If your vehicle calls for 5W-30, Valvoline Advanced Protection Full Synthetic Motor Oil SAE 5W-30 is a strong choice because it’s formulated to meet the latest API SQ standards and delivers excellent protection through the full drain interval.

03Step-by-Step: How to Change Your Oil

Having a step-by-step tutorial in front of you will set you up for success. Read through it all first, and then keep it around for reference.

1. Step 1. Gather Everything

   Have your oil, filter, drain pan, and tools within arm’s reach before the car goes up. You do not want to be walking back and forth with oily hands.

2. Step 2 - Warm the Engine Briefly

   Run the car for 2-3 minutes, then shut it off. Warm oil drains faster and more completely than cold oil. Don’t do this after a full drive; you don’t want scalding oil coming out.

3. Step 3 - Safely Raise the Vehicle with a Jack

   Drive onto ramps or use a floor jack with jack stands at the proper lift points. Never work under a car supported only by a floor jack. Double-check the vehicle is stable before going underneath.

4. Step 4. Remove the Oil Fill Cap

   Pop the cap on top of the engine before you drain. This breaks the vacuum and lets the oil drain faster.

5. Step 5 - Position the Drain Pain and Remove the Plug

   Slide the drain pan under the oil drain plug on the bottom of the oil pan. Using the correct socket, loosen the plug counterclockwise. When it’s almost out, keep one hand ready, oil will come out fast. Let it drain fully, usually 5-10 minutes.

6. Step 6 - Remove the Old Filter

   Use your filter wrench to loosen the old filter. Have the drain pan ready, because the filter holds oil. Check that the old rubber gasket came off with the filter. If it stays stuck to the engine, peel it off before installing the new filter.

7. Step 7 - Install the New Drain Plug and Washer

   Wipe the drain plug threads clean. If your vehicle uses a crush washer, replace it with a new one. Thread the plug in by hand first, then snug it down with a wrench. Firm is enough because over-tightening strips the threads in the oil pan, which is an expensive repair.

8. Step 8 - Install the New Oil Filter

   Dip a clean finger in fresh oil and run it around the new filter’s rubber gasket. This helps it seat properly and makes the next removal much easier. Thread the new filter on by hand until the gasket contacts the engine, then turn it another 3/4 turn. Hand-tight only, do not use a wrench to tighten.

9. Step 9 - Add Fresh Oil

   Lower the vehicle back to level ground. Pour in the correct amount of fresh oil through the filler hole using your funnel. Start with about a half-quart less than the total capacity listed in your manual. Replace the oil filler cap before starting the engine.

10. Step 10. Check for Leaks and Confirm the Correct Level

    Start the engine and let it run for about 30 seconds. Watch the area around the drain plug and filter for any drips. Shut off the engine and wait 5 minutes for the oil to settle back into the pan, then check the dipstick. Add more oil in small amounts if needed until the level lands between the min and max marks.

04The Most Common First-Timer Mistakes

Even experienced DIYers make these, so it’s worth knowing them upfront.

05Disposing of Used Motor Oil the Right Way

This part matters. Used motor oil is toxic to the environment. The EPA warns that used oil from a single oil change can contaminate one million gallons of fresh water. Never pour it on the ground, down a drain, or into the trash.

Here’s what to do instead:

1. Drain the used oil from your pan into a clean, sealed plastic jug. The empty oil jugs from your new oil work perfectly.
2. Keep the used oil separate from any other fluids. Never mix it with antifreeze, gasoline, or solvents, as this can turn it into a regulated hazardous waste.
3. Take it to a local auto parts store, quick-lube shop, or your municipality’s recycling center. Most accept used oil for free.

The EPA also recommends draining your used oil filter before disposal. Many auto parts stores accept these, too. It takes about 12 hours to drain fully if you let it sit in your pan overnight.

06How Much Money Does a DIY Oil Change Actually Save?

The savings are real, though the range varies depending on where you live and what kind of oil your car needs. Full synthetic oil changes at a shop commonly run $70-$120.

Doing it yourself with premium oil and a quality filter typically costs $30-$50. That’s a savings of $25-$75 per change, with no tools factored in, after the first few changes pay for your one-time equipment purchase.

The real payoff isn’t just money, though. You know exactly what went into your engine. You pick the oil and filter. You can visually inspect other things while you’re under the car, hoses, leaks, and worn hardware, before they become expensive surprises.

07Changing Oil for Beginners FAQ

08Take Control of Your Next Oil Change

Changing your own oil for the first time can feel intimidating, but once you understand the basic steps, it becomes a straightforward and rewarding part of vehicle maintenance. From safely draining the old oil to replacing the filter and refilling with the correct grade, each step plays an important role in keeping your engine clean and protected.

With the right tools, a little preparation, and attention to detail, beginners can confidently handle this essential maintenance task at home. Regular oil changes not only help extend engine life but also give you a better understanding of your vehicle’s overall condition.