How to Change Engine Oil: A Step-by-Step Guide

Changing engine oil at the correct interval helps maintain your engine, but the oil grade, capacity and filter depend on the exact vehicle. This guide covers general preparation; always follow the owner’s manual or service information for your make, model, year and engine.

Before you begin: check parts and safety

Confirm the specified oil grade and required standard, refill quantity, filter and drain-plug washer for your vehicle. Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Hyundai and other manufacturers use different specifications across models and engines. Match parts by VIN/chassis or the original part number rather than choosing by brand alone. If you cannot confirm the specification, ask a qualified technician.

Park on firm, level ground, apply the parking brake and let hot components cool enough to handle safely. Wear eye protection and gloves, keep children and pets away, and prepare a drain pan. If access underneath the vehicle requires lifting it, use the manufacturer-approved lifting points and properly rated axle stands on a level surface. Never work beneath a vehicle supported only by a jack.

Step 1: Locate the drain plug and oil filter

Consult the service information to identify the correct oil pan, drain plug and filter location. Remove an undertray only if required and keep its fasteners together. If the vehicle is leaking, damaged, or difficult to support securely, stop and have it inspected by a professional.

Step 2: Drain the used oil

Position a suitable drain pan beneath the plug. Using the correct tool, loosen the plug carefully and allow the oil to drain without touching hot oil or exhaust parts. Keep the plug and washer safe. Do not force a damaged or rounded plug; incorrect tools can damage the oil pan.

Step 3: Replace the oil filter and washer

Remove the old filter with the correct tool if needed. Check that its old sealing gasket has not stuck to the engine, then fit the correct new filter and any required seal according to its instructions. Replace the drain-plug washer when the manufacturer specifies it. Tighten the filter and plug to the vehicle’s specified procedure and torque; do not guess or overtighten.

Step 4: Refill with the specified oil

Refit any removed cover and lower the vehicle safely before refilling if the service procedure requires it. Add the manufacturer-specified oil gradually, using a clean funnel. Do not pour in the full listed capacity blindly: the amount needed can vary depending on the filter and how completely the old oil drained.

Step 5: Check the level and inspect for leaks

Follow the manual’s procedure for checking the dipstick or electronic oil-level display. Add small amounts only as needed and avoid overfilling. Start the engine briefly only if the service procedure allows, check for leaks around the filter and drain plug, then switch off and recheck the level as directed. Stop the engine if an oil-pressure warning appears or a leak is found.

Dispose of used oil responsibly

Collect used oil and the old filter in sealed containers and take them to an approved collection or recycling point. Never pour oil onto the ground or into a drain. Keep a record of the oil and filter used for your vehicle’s maintenance history.

The correct oil and filter vary by model year, engine and market. Before ordering Toyota, Nissan, Honda or other car parts, check the vehicle details and OEM number against the manufacturer’s specification.