Step 1 - Warm up the engine

Run the engine until normal operating temperature is reached & switch off, as warm oil will drain more effectively than cold oil and help to drain out any built up sludge.

Step 2 - Raise and Secure Vehicle

Park your vehicle on a level surface and make sure that the handbrake is on and the wheels are chocked. If necessary, jack the car up off the ground and support with axel stands. Alternatively, car ramps can be used.

Step 3 - Drain the old oil

Place the drain pan underneath the sump ready to catch the flow. (HOT OIL CAN BURN!) Once all the oil has completely drained, refit the sump plug (preferably with a new gasket) and tighten firmly but not too tight.

Step 4 - Install a new oil filter

Using an oil filter removal tool, remove the oil filter. Rub some fresh engine oil over the oil filter gasket and then screw it into location. Hand tight is usually adequate though a slight tighten up with the filter wrench may be necessary when hands are a little oily.

Step 5 - Refill oil

Ensure that you know the quantity of oil your car takes before you add any oil to the engine. Never fill exactly the specified quantity of oil immediately as it is good practice to initially fill 80% of the specified capacity. (e.g if your car takes 5 litres put 4 litres in to begin with).

Remove the oil filler cap on the top of the engine. Place a medium sized funnel in the aperture and surround the base with a rag or two to catch any spills. Carefully pour in the new oil SLOWLY. Some engines have a habit of developing airlocks which result in the oil spilling back out the filler hole. Periodically, stop pouring and allow the oil to settle down into the engine sump.

Check the dipstick until you have the correct level. Note: the dipstick will often indicate an overfill when the correct quantitiy of oil is added. The level will drop once the oil has circulated to the new filter. Start the engine and make sure the dashboard OIL light goes out or the gauge indicates pressure. If not, stop the engine immediately.

Step 6 - Check for oil leaks

Once you are satisfied with your oil level, run your engine for around 1 minute and then shut it off. Check the engine for oil leaks- particularly around the oil filter and sump plug. Re-check oil level.

Step 7 - Dispose Of old oil correctly

Check with local authorities about disposing of used oil. Many communities have collection centres which will see that oil is disposed of safely. Never dump used oil on the ground, into drains or in the rubbish bin.