Learn how to do your own oil change

Sometimes you’re just too busy to come in for “just” an oil change. You figure you can go on for more miles before you have to take your Orlando Toyota in. Postponing your recommended oil change can be unhealthy for your car’s engine. So, what do you do? Change the oil yourself! Our staff at Toyota of Orlando is here to help you figure out everything you need to know so you can do your own oil changes. 

What you need for a DIY oil change

When tackling an oil change all on your own, you need to make sure you have the right equipment. The tools you’ll need include:

●     Fresh oil (make sure to pick the right type of oil for you driving style and vehicle)

●     A new oil filter

●     A 5-7 quart oil pan

●     An oil filter wrench

●     Funnel

●     Jack with jack stands

●     Wrench

We also recommend a change of clothes. We recommend picking clothes that you usually wear around the house or when you’re doing chores. You wouldn’t want to accidentally get oil on your favorite blouse or pair of jeans!

Now that you have the tools, it’s time to change the oil in your Orlando vehicle! Here are some step-by-step instructions to master your own oil change:

1. Jack your car up and rest it on the jack stands.
2. Once the car is secure, go underneath the car to find the oil drain plug and place the oil pan there
3. Once placed, idle your car for up to ten minutes so the oil can warm up
4. Switch of the car and pop the hood you can loosen the oil filter cap to let the oil drain quicker
5. Go back under your Orlando car and remove the oil drain plug. It should take approximately 5 minutes to drain completely.
6. Find your oil filter and use the oil filter wrench to remove it.
7. After disposing the old oil filter, replace it with a new oil filter.
8. Tightly put the drain plug back in place, tightening it with the wrench.
9. Use a funnel to pour the recommended amount of new oil into the filter hole under the hood.
10. Replace the fill car and start running your car.

And there you have it! You can officially say you can do your own oil changes! If you need any help, feel free to ask our expert service team for advice the next time you come in for Orlando routine car maintenance. Or check out our tips on our website!

Come to Toyota of Orlando for all your maintenance needs

Does doing your own oil change seem like it may be too much to handle? Don’t worry! Our Orlando service staff will gladly change your oil along with other auto maintenance services.

Our Toyota service center is located at 3575 Vineland Road just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. Call us at (407) 298-4500 to schedule auto service!