Routine air filter replacement and oil filter replacement are both vital for optimal vehicular performance and overall safety. Depending on the particular make and model of your car, air filter replacement is usually needed between 12,000 and 15,000 miles. But you don’t have to take your car into the shop for this if you are a hands-on kind of person. You can likely change your own oil and oil filter without the help of a professional mechanic!
Continue reading to learn how to change your car oil and air filters all in one go.
The 101 on DIY Automotive Filter Changes
What You Need
All you need in order to change your air filters is the right supplies and a little knowledge. Then, you are ready to change your car’s oil all by yourself. Acquire a new oil filter, an oil pan to store the dirty oil, a car jack, a socket set, a funnel, and a couple bottles of the motor oil your car uses. Safety goggles, rubber gloves, a flashlight, and a few clean cloths wouldn’t hurt either.
Instructions for Engine Filter Changes
Oil Filter Replacement
First, run your car engine for a few minutes to warm the oil up because warm oil flows easier. Then, lift your vehicle off the ground with the car jack and place the oil pan beneath your vehicle. Be sure you have used a car jack before, as they can pose certain dangers if you don’t know what you are doing.
Next, unscrew your oil cap located under the hood, and the oil drain plug beneath your car. This plug generally looks like a single bolt underneath your car’s oil compartment. Double check your vehicle owners’ manual for instructions on locating the oil drain plug.
Motor oil should be changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, or sooner depending on how often you drive.
Put on your rubber gloves and use a socket wrench to unscrew the drain plug a few rounds, then use your hands to unscrew the rest of the way. Allow all the dirty oil to drain out completely. Replace the drain plug and then change the oil filter.
Once this is all done, you can use your funnel to pour your new, clean oil into your engine. The next step is replacing the oil filter. Simply unscrew the old filter, allow any excess oil to drain, and then replace and tighten the filter. If you are not using paper filters, use a tiny bit of oil to lubricate the edges of the new filter before screwing it back into place.
Air Filter Replacement
Aside from oil filters, your vehicle has air filters that need replaced on a routine basis. These are inexpensive and can be purchased at any local automotive store or general store. Expect to pay anywhere from $15 to $20 per filter. If you neglect to change your air filters, overtime you will notice a major decrease in gas mileage and vehicular performance. Luckily, this is a maintenance job you can do all by yourself! It is a simple ten minute process that is easy to learn how to do. Just follow your owners’ manual instructions!
Need some help with your routine car maintenance needs? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for factory scheduled maintenance in Carmel, Indiana for European vehicles. Our German factory trained mechanics offer dealership quality European auto repair at neighborhood prices!
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