A quick-lube shop charges $70-100 for an oil change. You can do the same job at home in 30 minutes for about $30 in parts — and it's probably the easiest maintenance job on a car. If you've never done one, this is the perfect first DIY project.
Why Do It Yourself?
Beyond the savings, DIY oil changes let you:
- Use quality oil and filters. Shops often use cheaper house-brand oil. You can pick full synthetic from trusted brands.
- Spot problems early. Every time you're under the car, you're checking for leaks, worn parts, and anything that looks off.
- Track maintenance properly. No more guessing when your last change was or what they put in.
- Avoid upsells. No one trying to sell you an "engine flush" you don't need.
What You'll Need
Tools
- Floor jack and jack stands — to get clearance under the car. See floor jacks →
- Wrench or socket for the drain plug (check your manual — usually 13, 14, 15, or 17mm)
- Oil filter wrench — most filters are hand-tight after months of heat cycling, so you'll need this. Oil filter wrenches →
- Drain pan — at least 6 quart capacity. See drain pans →
- Funnel — for clean refilling
- Rags or shop towels
Parts and Fluids
- Engine oil — check your owner's manual for weight and capacity (most modern cars use 0W-20 or 5W-30, 5 quarts)
- Oil filter — specific to your vehicle; any auto parts store can look it up
- New crush washer (for some cars — Honda, Toyota, BMW all use these)
The Process
Step 1: Warm Up the Engine (Briefly)
Run the engine for 2-3 minutes. Warm oil flows better, so you'll drain more of the old stuff. Don't get it fully hot — you'll burn yourself on the drain plug.
Step 2: Jack It Up Safely
Use your floor jack to lift the front of the car, then immediately place jack stands under the proper jack points (check your manual). Lower the car onto the stands. Never work under a car held up only by a jack.
Step 3: Drain the Old Oil
Place the drain pan under the oil pan drain plug. Loosen the plug with your wrench (lefty-loosey), then carefully spin it out by hand. Keep your hand on it so it doesn't fall into the pan. Let the oil drain for 5-10 minutes.
Step 4: Replace the Oil Filter
The filter is usually nearby — either a canister that spins off, or a cartridge in a housing on top of the engine. Spin off the old filter (have rags ready — it holds ~1 quart of oil). Before installing the new one, lightly oil the rubber gasket with fresh oil. Thread it on by hand until snug, then tighten 3/4 turn more — no wrench needed.
Step 5: Replace the Drain Plug
Install a new crush washer if your car uses one (Toyota, Honda, BMW). Thread the drain plug in by hand, then tighten with a torque wrench or moderately firm by feel. Do not overtighten — you can strip the oil pan threads, which is a very expensive mistake.
Step 6: Add New Oil
Lower the car back to the ground. Open the hood, find the oil fill cap, and pour in the correct amount (usually 5 quarts — check your manual). Use a funnel. Replace the fill cap.
Step 7: Check and Run
Pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert, and check the level. It should be between the two marks. Start the car and run for 30 seconds — watch for leaks at the drain plug and filter. Shut off, wait 5 minutes, check level again and top off if needed.
Disposing of Old Oil
Never pour used oil down the drain or in the trash — it's illegal and terrible for the environment. Every AutoZone, O'Reilly, Advance, and Walmart Auto Center takes used oil for free. Bring it in the original oil jugs or an empty container.
How Often to Change
Modern cars with full synthetic oil can go 7,500-10,000 miles between changes. Stick to the interval in your owner's manual. The "every 3,000 miles" rule is outdated and sells more oil.
Common First-Timer Mistakes
- Forgetting to replace the drain plug before adding oil — yes, people do this. All your new oil goes onto the garage floor.
- Double-gasketing — when the old filter's gasket stays stuck to the engine. Always check that the old gasket came off with the old filter.
- Overfilling — too much oil can damage your engine. Stick to the spec.
- Working on a hot engine — warm is fine, hot will burn you.
Ready to Start?
Check our Oil Change guide for vehicle-specific notes (drain plug sizes, filter types, oil weights for every major make). And while you're at it, swap your air filter — it takes 2 minutes and saves another $40.