How to change your engine oil: DIY style

A staple in your Charlotte Toyota car maintenance is having your oil changed. If you’re unable to get your oil changed at Toyota of N Charlotte, then we have a simple 10-step DIY! Before you start, be sure to know what type of Charlotte Toyota engine oil you want to use. If you use a more expensive engine oil, then you’ll be able to wait longer between your oil changes. 

Tools you’ll need to change your engine oil

• Funnel
• Jack and jack stands
• Socket and wrench set
• Oil filter wrench
• Oil filter 
• Engine oil (of course)

Step #1 Prepare your Toyota car. 

Make sure you park on a level surface before you being to change your Charlotte Toyota oil. There’ll be less of a mess this way!

Step #2 Find the drain plug. 

Take a dive underneath your car and place your Charlotte Toyota engine oil container under the drain plug. 

Step #3 Loosen the drain plug. 

Take a ratcheting wrench and loosen the drain plug counterclockwise. It’s important not to remove it entirely from the oil pan, and don’t be alarmed if the Charlotte Toyota engine oil drips. This is completely normal! 

Step #4 Drain your engine oil. 

Now you can remove the drain plug! Just keep in mind that your oil is going to pour out super fast! It’s going to take a little bit, so grab yourself a drink and relax! 

Step #5 Change the oil filter. 

Now you can change your Charlotte Toyota oil filter. If your Toyota car has a screw-on oil filter, then remove the filter by twisting it off! You’ll also want to apply a suer light coat of oil to the O-ring! If your car uses a cartridge filter, then just remove the cap and take out the old filter and replace it with the new one! 

Step #6 Reinstall the drain plug. 

A drain plug will usually come with the oil filter you’re using. But, if it doesn’t, then you can call our auto service technicians!  

Step #7 Let the oil flow. 

Remove the cap in the engine and pour your new oil into your engine! 

Step #8 Check the oil level. 

Now that you have all of the oil in, you can check the level by using a dipstick. Just pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean. Then, pull it (again) and be sure that the color is golden and that it’s on the right level. 

Step #9 Put the filler cap on. 

Once you seal everything up you can start your car. Take a quick look and make sure there aren’t any oil leaks! 

Step #10 Clean your mess. 

Take the time to throw away anything and recycle things if you can! Go ahead and clean those tools you used, too! 

Visit Toyota of N Charlotte 

If you have any questions or would prefer to come to our dealership for your auto service, just call our auto service technicians! Book an appointment at (704) 659-2025!