Sometimes bringing your vehicle to get auto service in Cortland isn’t always an option for you. Whether you don’t have time or just can’t get there, we can help. Our Cortland Action Auto service technicians have step by step instructions on how to change oil yourself.

Figure out how to change oil yourself from our Action Auto techs!

How to change oil in Charlotte

Learning how to change oil is easy because there are only four steps!

Step #1: Buy and round up all the supplies you will need! To learn how to change oil in your car you will need:

  • 4-6 liters of oil. Double check to make sure you buy either the conventional or synthetic oil that owner’s manual specifies.
  • Socket wrench
  • Oil pan
  • Funnel
  • New oil filter and an oil filter wrench
  • Car jack

Step #2: Drain the old oil already in your car. To do this, lift up your car using a car jack. Once propped up safely, turn on your car so the oil can get warmed up and will come out easier. After a few minutes, turn the car off. Next, get underneath your vehicle and located the drain plug. Make sure the oil pan is on the ground, beneath the plug. Use your socket wrench to release the drain plug and let the old oil drain out into the pan.

Step #3: Replace your oil filter. During the 5-10 minutes it takes for the oil to drain, you have to change the oil filter. An oil filter should be replaced every time the oil is changed in a vehicle. Use the owner’s manual to find where the oil filter is located. Once you’ve found it, use the oil filter wrench to unscrew the old one. After disposing of the old oil filter, screw in the new one. If you want to, wipe a small amount of new oil around the gasket ring of the new oil filter. This ensures a tight seal and the car to run more efficiently!

Charlotte oil change

Car maintenance in Cortland is easy!

Step #4: You’re almost there! Replace the engine oil.  First, make sure you’ve placed the drain plug back in securely using the socket wrench. Once that is done, remove the oil cap located under the hood of the car. Using the funnel, pour the new oil in. After you’ve emptied the new oil into the car, check the dipstick to make sure there is enough oil. Put the cap back on, and you’re done!

Make sure to clean up and properly dispose of the old oil in the pan. Safely return your car to the ground and you’re good to go!

Congrats! You’ve learned how to change oil all by yourself!

It’s simple to learn how to change oil, but maybe it’s a little too much work for you. That’s fine! Bring your car in for a Cortland oil change and any routine car maintenance at our auto service center. If you’re looking for a great deal, we even offer Cortland oil change savings. Check-in with your Yelp phone app and save $$

Our Action Auto Service Center is located at 3899 State Route 281 Cortland NY 13045, just off of I-81 near Suny Cortland!