How To Change Your Oil And Filter Like A Pro

Watch this quick video to learn how to change your oil and filter like a pro. 

Master your weekend oil change with our step-by-step guide. Discover the exact tools, fluid steps, and tips required for an exceptional engine service. 🛢️✨ 

How Do You Successfully Change Your Engine Oil and Filter? 

To successfully complete a DIY oil change, you need to elevate your vehicle safely, drain the old lubricant from the sump, replace the filter canister, and refill the engine with premium fluid according to manufacturer specifications. Randburg Midas stocks all the specialised tools, standard parts, and expert advice to ensure a seamless process. 🛠️🔋 

While the basic steps are straightforward, a single minor error like a twisted rubber seal can cause costly leaks or engine damage. Discover our expert breakdown of the tools required, hidden pro tips, and a foolproof step-by-step guide to mastering this essential maintenance task. 🔍👇 

Essential Tools and Spares for Your DIY Oil Change 

Before you get your hands dirty, you need to gather the correct equipment. Having the right tools in one place saves time and prevents unnecessary frustration halfway through the job. 🧰📦 

Your Essential Checklist: 

• Premium Engine Oil: Ensure you choose the exact grade and viscosity recommended for your specific make and model. 

• Replacement Oil Filter: A high-quality matching filter to keep your fluid free of harmful contaminants. 

• Socket Set: Specifically required to safely loosen and remove your engine’s sump plug. 

• Oil Filter Wrench: The ideal tool for removing a stubborn oil filter. 🪛 

• Durable Oil Pan: Essential for catching the used oil without making a complete mess of your garage floor. 🧼 

• Sturdy Funnel: Helps keep your engine bay clean by preventing accidental spills when refilling the engine oil. 

• Jack and Axle Stands: Essential safety equipment for lifting and supporting your vehicle securely while working underneath it. 🏋️‍♂️ 

💡 PRO TIP: Warm up your engine for two to three minutes before starting, as this makes the oil less viscous, allowing it to drain more easily. We also recommend using an engine oil flush additive, available in-store, to help remove sludge and carbon deposits that may have built up over time. ✨ 

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Oil and Filter 

Follow these straightforward steps closely to ensure your vehicle continues running at its absolute prime. 🏁🚘 

The Draining Process: 

1. Locate and loosen the sump plug: Carefully position yourself under the vehicle and locate the main drain plug on the oil pan. 🔧 

2. Position your oil pan: Place the pan directly beneath the sump plug before removing it completely to catch the used oil. 🪣 

3. Drain the system completely: Leave the fluid to empty for five to ten minutes or until it has stopped dripping. ⏳ 

4. Refit the sump plug: Reinstall the sump plug and tighten it to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification. 

The Filter Replacement: 

5. Remove the old filter: Keep the old canister completely upright as you spin it off so the trapped fluid doesn’t spill out. 🔄 

6. Prepare the new filter: Apply a light coating of clean engine oil to the new rubber seal to help it seat correctly and prevent it from twisting. 💧 

7. Clean the mounting housing: Check the filter area for any grit, old remaining seals, or road contaminants, and wipe it clean. 🧽 

8. Install the new filter: Wind your fresh filter back on strictly as per your vehicle specifications. 

Refilling and Checking: 

9. Pour in the fresh oil: Use your funnel to add the fluid, making sure to check your owner’s manual to ensure you do not overfill the capacity. 📖 

10. Seal the engine: Replace the oil filler cap securely. 🧢 

11. Check the dashboard: Start your engine and monitor the oil pressure indicator. If the light doesn’t go off within 20 seconds, shut the engine off immediately. 🚨 

12. Inspect for leaks: Take a quick look under the chassis to verify that everything is completely dry. 🔎 

13. Final level check: Lower the car back onto flat ground and use your dipstick to verify the final oil level. 📈 

How Often Should You Replace Your Engine Fluids? 

To keep your engine running at its absolute peak, your oil and oil filters should generally be replaced every six to nine months, or between 8,000 and 15,000 kilometres. It is always best to check your unique owner’s manual to find the exact intervals for your driving style. With the right tools and quality parts, changing your own oil can be a rewarding DIY project. 🛠️🏅 

Ready to Tackle Your Weekend Garage Project? 

Have you ever tried changing your own oil? 🌟 Drop your favourite DIY tips in the comments below, or share this practical guide with a fellow vehicle owner who enjoys working on their own car. 

If you’re unsure which parts are right for your vehicle, pop into our store on Bram Fischer Drive today. Our knowledgeable team will help you find exactly what you need. 🤝🚗 

Hit that subscribe button on our YouTube Channel for more amazing videos! 

🚗 Find everything you need, from service kits, brakes, clutches, suspension/shocks, oils, and car accessories to brake fluids! We’ve got you covered. 💪✨  

Take advantage of our convenient kiosk for a quick snack and drink while you shop. 🍔🥤  

Our friendly team is ready to assist you. 

📍 191 Bram Fischer Drive, Randburg. 

🗨️ Let’s Chat! 

📝 Get a quote. 

📞 (011) 789-4411 / (011) 036-0200 
📩 marco@midasrandburg.co.za 

 
*TCs current stock price | While stocks last. 

 
⚠️ All products and prices only apply to Randburg Midas on Bram Fischer Drive (191 Bram Fischer Drive, Randburg). 

We invite you to leave us a Facebook or Google Review. 

We want to see you! Show us your auto styling projects @RandburgMidas