DIY Oil Change: Save Money and Keep Your Car Running Smoothly with O'Reilly Auto Parts

Yulia Chive

3 min read

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10-01-2025

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DIY Oil Change: Save Money & Keep Your Car Running Smoothly with O'Reilly Auto Parts

Introduction:

Regular oil changes are crucial for keeping your car running smoothly and extending its lifespan. While professional oil changes can be expensive, performing a DIY oil change is a straightforward process that can save you significant money. This guide, leveraging the convenience and selection of O'Reilly Auto Parts, will walk you through each step, empowering you to maintain your vehicle's health and your wallet's wellbeing.

Why Choose a DIY Oil Change?

• Cost Savings: Professional oil changes can cost anywhere from $50 to $100 or more, depending on the type of oil and service. A DIY oil change, using parts from O'Reilly Auto Parts, typically costs significantly less.
• Convenience: You control the timing and location of the oil change. No more scheduling appointments or waiting at the mechanic's shop.
• Learning Experience: It’s a valuable skill to learn, giving you a better understanding of your car's maintenance needs.

What You'll Need (Easily Found at O'Reilly Auto Parts):

• New Oil: Check your owner's manual for the correct type and amount. O'Reilly's knowledgeable staff can assist you in selecting the appropriate oil for your vehicle's make, model, and year.
• New Oil Filter: Again, your owner's manual specifies the correct filter. O'Reilly stocks a wide range of filters to match any vehicle.
• Oil Filter Wrench: Choose a wrench that fits your car's oil filter. O'Reilly carries various sizes and types.
• Wrench for Drain Plug: This will vary depending on your vehicle. O'Reilly has a selection of wrenches to choose from.
• Drain Pan: A large enough pan to catch the used oil.
• Funnel: To easily pour the new oil into the engine.
• Jack and Jack Stands (or ramps): For safe and stable vehicle access. O'Reilly may offer these as well; check with your local store.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from oil and grime.
• Shop Rags or Paper Towels: For cleaning up spills.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Preparation:

• Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions and torque specifications for your vehicle's drain plug.
• Warm up your engine for a few minutes to thin the oil, allowing for easier draining.
• Position your vehicle securely on jack stands or ramps. Safety First! Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.

2. Draining the Old Oil:

• Locate the oil drain plug, usually underneath the engine.
• Place your drain pan under the plug.
• Carefully loosen and remove the drain plug using the correct wrench. Let the oil drain completely – this may take 15-20 minutes.
• Once drained, replace the drain plug and tighten it securely to the manufacturer's specifications (refer to your owner's manual).

3. Replacing the Oil Filter:

• Locate the oil filter.
• Use the oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old filter. Have a drain pan handy, as some oil will spill out.
• Lightly lubricate the rubber gasket on the new filter with fresh oil.
• Screw on the new oil filter by hand until it's snug. Then tighten it an additional ¾ to 1 full turn.

4. Adding New Oil:

• Locate the oil fill cap (usually marked with an oil can symbol).
• Remove the cap and carefully pour the correct amount of new oil into the engine using a funnel. Refer to your owner's manual for the exact amount.

5. Checking the Oil Level:

• Replace the oil fill cap.
• Start your engine and let it run for a minute or two.
• Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle.
• Use the dipstick to check the oil level. Add more oil if necessary to reach the "full" mark.

6. Disposal of Used Oil:

• Important: Used motor oil is hazardous waste. Do not pour it down the drain or on the ground. Take it to your local O'Reilly Auto Parts store or a designated recycling center for proper disposal. They often have a used oil recycling program.

7. Final Steps:

• Dispose of used oil filter responsibly (check local regulations).
• Double-check all connections.
• Lower your vehicle safely.

Conclusion:

Performing your own oil change with parts from O'Reilly Auto Parts offers a significant cost savings and a rewarding sense of accomplishment. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult your owner's manual for specific instructions relevant to your vehicle. With a little time and effort, you can keep your car running smoothly and save money in the process. O'Reilly Auto Parts is your one-stop shop for all your DIY oil change needs.