Changing the oil in your car isn't as scary as it sounds. If you are already savvy when it comes to your car and feel comfortable trying it out, use the directions below. If you are a novice under the hood, however, we recommend bringing your car into Shults Nissan for regular routine maintenance.

Materials

Before you can begin working, you'll need to gather up your materials. You'll need the following:
  • New oil
  • New oil filter
  • Socket wrench
  • Drain pan
  • Funnel
  • Jacks or ramps

Changing Your Car Oil

1. Lift your car, using either jacks or ramps. 
        a. If you jack your car, brace it before working beneath it. 
        b. Make sure you are parked on a flat surface with the parking brake engaged.

2. Idle your car for a couple of minutes to heat up the old oil. This will ensure that the oil drains more quickly.

3. Take off the oil cap under the hood.

4. Get beneath the car and locate the oil pan. 
        a. Place your drain pan directly beneath the oil pan on the ground, so that it can catch the draining oil. 
        b. Using the wrench, unscrew the oil drain plug from the oil pan. Careful, the oil will begin to drain immediately. Give it around 15 minutes to drain completely.

5. Once all the oil has drained out, screw the plug back into the oil pan. 
        b. Caution: do not screw it in too tight.

6. Locate the oil filter. 
        a. There is no standard location for the filter. It varies by make and model, so be sure to research thoroughly in advance.

7. Use a wrench or your hands to unscrew the old filter. If you use your hands, you might need to use the towel for grip.

8. Grab your new filter and prep it for installation.
        a. Dip your finger into the replacement oil and smear it around the gasket ring on the new filter. 
        b. Pour a small amount of oil into the filter.

9. Screw the new filter into place, tightening it to the specifications of the filter you are using. Check the box for instructions.

10. Add new oil to your car, using a funnel. 
        a. You can determine the amount using the manual. 
        b. Put the cap back on.

11. Dispose of the old oil properly. Funnel the oil into a sealing container and take it to a designated collection site.

12. Return your car to the ground and turn it on. Congratulations-you've changed your oil!


Have any questions about changing your oil? Stop in to Shults Nissan for guidance today! We are coveniently located at 311 Fluvanna Ave in Jamestown, NY. If you want to schedule a service appointment, feel free to call us at (888) 706-5898 to make your oil change appointment today. We look forward to serving you. 

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