Engine oil is the life blood of an engine. Changing it regularly and properly is one of the most important services you will perform. Start by running the engine until it reaches operating temperature, then shut it off. Next, remove the oil fill cap. This will allow the oil to flow out of the engine more freely. Place the cap on or near the hood hinge. This is good way to remind yourself to reinstall the cap when you are finished. Next, raise the vehicle on a lift and place a drain pan under the engine oil pan and remove the drain plug. Then inspect the plug threads and gasket. If the plug is damaged, replace it with a new one. While the oil is draining, inspect the underside of the vehicle. Check for signs of leakage and damaged, loose or hanging components. Also, inspect the tires and check the tire pressure. Next, re-install the drain plug, making sure to tighten it to the manufacturer's specifications. Some vehicles use a cartridge type filter that is accessible from the top of the engine. If the oil filter is accessible from underneath the engine, move the drain pan under the filter. Then use a filter wrench to loosen it. Make sure to loosen the filter just enough to let the oil drain out. After the oil slows, remove the filter. Inspect the filter mounting area, making sure the gasket did not stay on the engine. Then wipe the mounting area with a clean shop rag. Next, check the new filter to make sure it's the proper type and number for the vehicle you are working on. Place a small amount of new oil on the filter gasket. Install the filter, tightening it by hand. Most manufacturers recommend that the filter be turned ½ to ¾ of a turn after it's finger tight. As always, follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Next, Install the proper amount of oil, making sure it meets the manufacturer's specifications and is the proper weight and type for the vehicle. Now replace the oil fill cap. Next, start the engine. The oil light should go out within 20 seconds. If the vehicle is equipped with an oil pressure gauge, it should read at least 20 psi. If the light doesn't go out or if the pressure doesn't rise, stop the engine immediately. If the pressure is OK, leave the engine running and check under the engine for leaks. Then shut the engine off, wait a few minutes, and recheck the oil level. The level should be above the ADD mark but at or below the FULL mark. Finally, reset the oil life indicator if the vehicle has one, or install a reminder sticker on the vehicle.
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