🛠️ How to Change the Oil in a Car 

When you’re building a car to be faster, cleaner, or just better, it’s easy to focus on mods and overlook the basics. But if you don’t keep up on the essentials, like regular oil changes, all that work under the hood won’t mean much for long.

Changing your car’s oil is one of the easiest ways to keep your engine healthy, and if you’re serious about tuning, you should know how to do it yourself. TunerScene is here to explain how you can change your car's oil yourself. 

What You'll Need:

• Fresh oil (check your owner's manual for type & amount)

• New oil filter

• Oil filter wrench

• Socket wrench set

• Oil catch pan

• Funnel

• Jack and jack stands (or ramps)

• Gloves and rags

• Maybe a crush washer for the drain bolt (optional but smart)

Step 1: Prep Your Workspace

First things first, safety. Park your car on a flat surface, set the parking brake, and let the engine cool down a little if it’s hot. You want it warm enough that the oil flows easily, but not so hot that it burns your skin. Jack the car up securely and toss some jack stands under there before you even think about sliding underneath.

Step 2: Drain the Old Oil

Grab your oil pan and position it under the oil drain bolt (usually at the lowest point of the oil pan).

• Use your socket wrench to loosen the bolt and let the oil drain completely.

• Watch out — it comes out faster than you expect.

• Once it slows to a drip, wipe down the bolt and replace it (ideally with a fresh crush washer to prevent leaks).

Step 3: Swap the Oil Filter

Now, find the oil filter. (Pro tip: on some tuners and performance builds, it’s hidden in annoying places.)

• Use the filter wrench to loosen and remove it.

• A little oil will probably spill, so keep the pan close by.

• Before installing the new filter, lightly coat the rubber gasket with fresh oil — it helps seal better.

• Hand-tighten the new filter. No need to crank it with a wrench unless the manual says so.

Step 4: Refill with Fresh Oil

Pop the hood and remove the oil cap.

• Using a funnel, pour in the new oil slowly.

• Check your manual for the exact amount, but typically you’re looking at 4–5 quarts for a four-banger.

• After filling, replace the cap.

Step 5: Check and Top Off

Start the engine and let it run for a minute.

• Watch for leaks under the car — especially around the drain plug and filter.

• Turn the car off and wait a couple minutes for the oil to settle.

• Pull the dipstick, wipe it, reinsert, and pull again to check the level.

• Add a little more oil if needed until it’s at the full line.

Pro Tips:

• Always dispose of used oil properly — most auto parts stores will take it for free.

• Keep a log of your oil changes, especially if you track your car or beat on it often.

• Some tuned engines (especially turbo builds) may benefit from more frequent oil changes.

Change Your Car Oil Like a Pro 

Learning how to change the oil in a car isn’t just maintenance, as it’s part of being connected to your car. Every time you wrench on it, you understand it better. Plus, saving money on basic maintenance means more cash for real upgrades. Stay wrenching, stay building, and keep that scene alive, with more help from TunerScene on the way!