How To Perform A Basic Oil Change

There are certain things that every guy should know how to do. How to change a tire, how to jump start a car, and how to change your own oil. But most people are lazy, and they simply take their cars to the dealership or some quick lube shop when it’s time for an oil change. What you might not realize is that it’s REALLY easy to change your own oil, and you’ll save a bunch of money in the process.

To illustrate this point, we decided to change the oil in Anthony’s 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX and record the whole process for our readers. As you’ll see in the video below, it’s one of the easier DIY tasks that you can perform on your car, and you’ll walk away with a sense of accomplishment to boot. Another added bonus is that you’ll save a bunch of money by doing it yourself. We spent about $24 in materials, while our dealership charges us close to $60 for an oil change!

It’s important to consult your owner’s manual to make sure you’re using the correct type (regular, synthetic, blend) and weight oil for your car. When it comes to oil filters, we prefer to use the Purolator PureOne oil filter, which you can find at most auto supply stores.

Why Purolator?

Purolator invented the oil filter right here in the USA back in 1923, and they’re trusted by professionals and do-it-yourselfers. You’ll appreciate the 100% grip control of the filter, which make for easy installation and removal. Their exclusive Micronic filter media traps even microscopic contaminants, and their silicone anti-drainback valve offers superior protection against dry-start. ‘Nuff said!

Changing your oil and oil filter is a simple six step process:

1. Put your car on jack stands or ramps
2. Remove the oil drain plug and let oil drain
3. Remove the old oil filter
4. Install new oil filter
5. Replace oil
6. Check oil level

Still not convinced that you can do this job yourself? Then watch the following video, where we take you through the process step by step:

So that’s how to do your own oil change. It’s easy, only a little messy (wear gloves), and it’s far cheaper than going to the dealership. In total, we spent about an hour doing the oil change, which wasn’t too bad at all!

Disclosure: Purolator provided us with the PureOne oil filter and paid us to review it. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own.