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

Taking care of your car’s engine is essential for maintaining its performance and longevity. Regularly changing your oil and filter is a key part of this routine, and with a little know-how, you can easily do it yourself at home using Valvoline products. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring a successful and mess-free oil change.

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Before You Begin: Gather Your Supplies

• Valvoline motor oil: Choose the right oil weight and type for your car based on your owner’s manual and climate. Valvoline offers a variety of options, including conventional, synthetic blend, and full synthetic oils.
• Valvoline oil filter: Select the appropriate filter for your vehicle make and model.
• Oil drain pan: Large enough to collect all the used oil.
• Socket wrench set: To remove the drain plug and oil filter.
• Funnel: For pouring new oil into the engine.
• Rags: To wipe up any spills.
• Gloves: To protect your hands from oil.
• Safety glasses: To shield your eyes from splashes.
• Owner’s manual: Refer to it for specific oil capacity and drain plug location for your car.

Safety First!

• Work in a well-ventilated area. Oil fumes can be irritating.
• Let the engine cool completely before starting. Hot oil can cause burns.
• Wear gloves and safety glasses for protection.
• Be prepared to dispose of used oil responsibly. Many auto parts stores and service stations accept used oil for recycling.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Warm Up the Engine: Run the engine for a few minutes to warm up the oil, making it drain more easily.
2. Park on a Level Surface: Engage the parking brake and chock the wheels for safety.
3. Locate the Drain Plug and Oil Filter: Refer to your owner’s manual for specific locations.
4. Place the Oil Drain Pan Underneath: Position the drain pan directly below the drain plug to catch the used oil.
5. Loosen the Drain Plug: Using the socket wrench, carefully loosen the drain plug by turning it counter-clockwise. Be prepared for oil to flow out immediately.
6. Let the Oil Drain Completely: Allow all the used oil to drain into the pan. This may take several minutes.
7. Replace the Drain Plug: Once draining is complete, tighten the drain plug snugly using the wrench. Do not overtighten.
8. Remove the Oil Filter: Use the socket wrench or a filter wrench to loosen the oil filter. Be careful, as some used oil may remain in the filter. Once loose, remove it by hand and be ready to contain any drips with a rag.
9. Clean the Filter Mounting Area: Wipe away any dirt or old gasket material from the engine block where the filter mounts.
10. Prepare the New Filter: Apply a thin coat of fresh oil to the gasket of the new Valvoline oil filter.
11. Install the New Oil Filter: Screw on the new filter by hand until snug, following the manufacturer’s tightening instructions (usually “hand-tight plus 1/4 turn”).
12. Add New Oil: Using a funnel, carefully pour in the recommended amount of fresh Valvoline oil as specified in your owner’s manual. Don’t overfill!
13. Check the Oil Level: Using the dipstick, check the oil level. Add oil in small increments if needed until the level reaches the “full” mark on the dipstick.
14. Start the Engine and Check for Leaks: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Look underneath for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter.
15. Turn Off the Engine and Recheck Oil Level: After a few minutes, turn off the engine and wait a further two minutes to allow the oil to settle. Then, recheck the oil level on the dipstick and adjust if necessary.
16. Dispose of Used Oil Responsibly: Take your used oil and filter to a designated recycling center. Do not pour it down the drain or throw it in the trash.

Congratulations! You have successfully completed your DIY oil change using Valvoline products.

Tips for a Successful Oil Change:

• Work on a clean surface: This will help prevent dirt and debris from contaminating the new oil.
• Organize your workspace: Having all your tools and supplies within reach will save time and frustration.