Changing your own oil may sound messy or complicated at first, especially if you’ve never worked on a vehicle before. But ignoring regular oil changes can shorten engine life, reduce performance and lead to expensive repairs over time. The good news is that learning how to change oil is simpler than many drivers think. With the right tools, safe steps and a little preparation, you can handle a basic oil change confidently at home or know when it’s best to visit DRIVEN in Newmarket.
Before learning how to change oil, make sure you have the correct tools, enough time, and a safe workspace. Preparing everything in advance helps the process go smoother and reduces the chance of spills, missing tools or installation mistakes.
| Detail | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Estimated Time | 45–90 minutes for beginners |
| Experience Level | Beginner to intermediate |
| Best For | Drivers comfortable using basic hand tools |
| Work Area | Flat, stable, well-ventilated surface |
| Safety Priority | Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack |
| When to Choose DRIVEN | Low-clearance vehicles, active oil leaks, warranty concerns, or limited tools |
| Tool / Supply | Why It’s Needed |
|---|---|
| Engine Oil | Use the manufacturer-recommended viscosity and specification |
| Oil Filter | Replaces the old filter that traps contaminants |
| Oil Drain Pan | Collects used engine oil safely |
| Socket and Wrench Set | Removes drain plugs and fasteners |
| Oil Filter Wrench | Helps loosen tight filters |
| Funnel | Prevents spills while adding fresh oil |
| Jack and Jack Stands | Safely lifts and supports the vehicle |
| Wheel Chocks | Helps prevent vehicle movement |
| Nitrile Gloves | Keeps oil and debris off your hands |
| Shop Rags or Paper Towels | Cleans spills and checks the dipstick |
| Flashlight or Work Light | Improves visibility underneath the vehicle |
| Replacement Drain Plug Washer | Helps prevent oil leaks after reinstallation |
| Owner’s Manual | Confirms oil type, capacity, filter type, and torque guidance |
Many drivers in Newmarket choose synthetic oil because it flows more consistently during Ontario winter cold starts and helps improve engine protection in freezing temperatures. Always follow the oil specification listed by your vehicle manufacturer.
This step by step oil change guide is for general education. Always follow your vehicle’s manual first.
Taking a few minutes to prepare before starting your car oil change can save time, prevent mistakes and make the process much safer especially if it’s your first time doing a DIY oil change.
Before lifting the vehicle or draining oil, confirm three important details:
Some vehicles come with multiple engine options depending on trim level or model year. Oil type and oil capacity can vary between engines.
You can usually find your engine information by:
Using the wrong engine oil can affect lubrication, fuel economy, cold-weather performance and long-term engine wear.
Most vehicles use one of these common oil viscosities:
You’ll usually find the recommended oil grade:
There are three common types of motor oil:
| Oil Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Conventional Oil | Older vehicles and lighter driving conditions |
| Synthetic Blend | Balanced protection and affordability |
| Full Synthetic Oil | Better cold-weather performance and engine protection |
For drivers in Newmarket and across Ontario, full synthetic oil often performs better during winter cold starts because it flows more consistently in freezing temperatures.
Adding too little oil can increase friction and heat buildup. Overfilling can create pressure problems, leaks or oil foaming.
To confirm oil capacity:
Once you confirm the correct oil type, filter and capacity, gather your tools and move to the next step.
Before starting the actual oil change, you’ll need enough space to work safely underneath the vehicle.
Depending on your setup, you can use:
Always park on a flat, stable surface and engage the parking brake before lifting the vehicle.
Never work under a vehicle supported only by a floor jack. Always use properly rated jack stands placed at the manufacturer’s recommended lift points.
Many modern vehicles have plastic underbody panels or splash shields designed to:
To access the oil pan and filter, you may need to remove clips, screws or fasteners using basic hand tools or a plastic clip removal tool.
Keep all hardware organized so reinstallation is easier later.
Before draining the oil, inspect the underside of the engine for:
Finding leaks early can help prevent bigger engine problems later. If you notice heavy oil buildup or active leaking, it may be safer to schedule a professional inspection instead of continuing the DIY repair.
Before loosening anything, locate both the:
On many vehicles, these sit underneath the engine near the oil pan. Some models may also have splash shields or underbody covers that need removal first.
Some vehicles place the transmission drain plug close to the engine oil drain plug. Draining the wrong fluid by mistake can cause serious mechanical damage, so double-check the location before removing anything.
Place your oil drain pan or container underneath the drain plug before loosening it.
Most passenger vehicles hold several litres of engine oil, so make sure your drain pan is large enough to avoid spills.
Try to angle the pan slightly toward the expected oil flow. Oil may initially shoot outward before flowing straight down.
Use the correct wrench or socket to slowly loosen the drain plug by turning it counterclockwise.
As the plug becomes loose:
Once removed, allow the old oil to drain completely.
Most vehicles need several minutes for the oil to fully drain from the engine.
Wait until:
Taking extra time here helps remove more contaminated oil before adding fresh motor oil.
After the old oil finishes draining, move to the oil filter.
Most oil filters are mounted directly to the engine and look like a small metal cylinder, although some newer vehicles use cartridge-style filters inside a housing.
Position the drain pan underneath the filter area before loosening it because leftover oil may spill out during removal.
Using:
slowly turn the filter counterclockwise until it loosens. Once oil flow slows, fully remove the filter.
Before installing the new filter, inspect the mounting surface carefully.
Make sure the old rubber gasket came off with the old filter. If the old gasket stays attached to the engine, the new filter may not seal properly, which can cause rapid oil leakage after startup.
Apply a thin layer of fresh engine oil to the new rubber gasket before installation.
This helps:
Thread the new filter on by hand until the gasket contacts the mounting surface.
Then tighten it according to the filter manufacturer’s instructions. In most cases, hand-tight is enough. Avoid overtightening the filter.
Use a clean rag or shop towel to wipe away excess oil around:
Cleaning the area now makes it easier to spot leaks later after adding fresh oil.
Once the old oil has fully drained, reinstall the drain plug carefully.
Start threading the plug by hand first to avoid cross-threading the oil pan. If the plug does not turn smoothly by hand, stop and realign it before tightening further.
Many vehicles use a crush washer or sealing washer behind the drain plug to help prevent leaks.
Inspect the washer for:
Some manufacturers recommend replacing the washer during every car oil change. Check your owner’s manual for your vehicle’s requirements.
Use a wrench or socket to tighten the drain plug until snug.
Avoid:
Overtightening can:
Undertightening can lead to oil leaks.
Some manufacturers also provide an exact torque specification for the drain plug. If available, use a torque wrench and follow the recommended setting.
Before adding fresh oil:
Once the drain plug and oil filter are securely installed, reinstall any underbody covers or splash shields removed earlier.
Lower the vehicle safely back onto level ground before adding fresh oil. A level surface helps provide a more accurate oil level reading later.
Open the hood and locate the engine oil cap, usually marked with an oil can symbol.
Remove the cap and place a funnel into the opening to help prevent spills.
Slowly pour in the manufacturer-recommended engine oil using the correct viscosity and specification for your vehicle.
Instead of adding the full amount immediately:
This helps reduce the risk of overfilling.
Too much oil can:
Before starting the engine:
This helps prevent leaks and burning oil smells after startup.
Once fresh oil has been added and the oil cap is secured, start the engine and let it run for about 30–60 seconds.
This allows the new oil to circulate through the engine and fill the new oil filter properly.
While the engine is running:
If the oil warning light stays on, shut the engine off immediately and recheck the oil level and filter installation.
With the engine idling, look underneath the vehicle and around:
Check for:
Even a small leak can become a bigger issue once the engine reaches operating temperature.
Turn the engine off and wait several minutes for the oil to settle back into the oil pan.
Then:
The oil should sit near the “Full” mark without going above it. If needed, add small amounts of oil gradually and recheck the dipstick each time.
Before driving:
Learning how to change oil in car properly can help you:
If you notice leaks, warning lights, burning smells or unusual engine noise afterward, schedule a professional inspection before continuing to drive.
Used motor oil needs careful disposal. Do not pour oil into a sink, toilet, storm sewer, driveway, lawn or catch basin.
The City of Windsor warns that oil and chemical waste should never go into storm sewers, drains, toilets, or onto lawns because it can create dangerous sewer conditions and costly cleanup.
Environment and Climate Change Canada has also identified used crankcase oils as toxic under CEPA 1999.
For Newmarket residents, check official local waste guidance before disposal. Used oil, oil containers, and filters are commonly handled through household hazardous waste programs. You can also ask DRIVEN about responsible oil handling when booking an oil change in Newmarket.
Fully electric vehicles do not have traditional engine oil because they do not use a gasoline engine.
Hybrids are different. Since most hybrids still have an internal combustion engine, they usually need oil changes. Always follow the maintenance schedule for your exact model.
EVs may still need other fluids checked, such as coolant, brake fluid, and washer fluid.
Most vehicles list oil change intervals in the owner’s manual. That schedule should be your first guide.
However, Newmarket drivers often face conditions that may require more frequent service:
Natural Resources Canada recommends following the manufacturer’s maintenance guidance as part of good vehicle care.
For a first oil change to a new car, follow your manufacturer’s maintenance schedule. Modern engines usually do not need an extremely early oil change unless the manual says so.
Keep your receipts and mileage records. They help support warranty history and improve resale confidence later.
Related Article: Where Should You Get Your Car Serviced – At An Auto Shop or A Dealership?
Knowing how to change oil helps you understand your vehicle, spot warning signs and avoid costly mistakes. Still, a professional oil change can save time, reduce mess and protect your maintenance records.
For a safe, clean and reliable oil change in Newmarket, book your next service with DRIVEN today.
Most modern vehicles follow oil change intervals listed in the owner’s manual. However, frequent short trips, stop-and-go traffic, towing and cold Ontario winters can shorten oil life. If you are unsure about your maintenance schedule, DRIVEN in Newmarket can help you determine the right interval for your driving habits and vehicle type.
Old engine oil gradually breaks down and becomes less effective at lubricating engine components. Over time, this can lead to sludge buildup, increased engine wear, overheating, lower fuel efficiency and expensive repairs. Regular car engine oil change service helps protect long-term engine performance.
Some vehicles have enough ground clearance to access the drain plug and oil filter without lifting the vehicle. However, many modern cars sit too low for safe access. If lifting is required, always use properly rated jack stands or ramps and never rely only on a hydraulic jack.
Synthetic oil usually performs better during cold starts because it flows more consistently in low temperatures. Many drivers in Ontario prefer synthetic oil for winter driving conditions, but the final choice should always match the manufacturer’s recommendations for your vehicle.
Common DIY oil change mistakes include:
Taking your time and following the correct oil change steps helps prevent these problems.
If you prefer professional service instead of a DIY motor oil change, DRIVEN provides oil changes, filter replacement, fluid checks and preventative vehicle maintenance for drivers in Newmarket, Ontario.
Yes. Replacing the oil filter during every oil change helps remove contaminants trapped inside the old filter and allows clean oil to circulate properly through the engine. DRIVEN includes filter replacement as part of routine oil change service.