A properly maintained engine is crucial for the longevity and performance of your car. While adding or changing engine oil is a regular part of car maintenance, many people overlook how to properly close the engine oil lid, clean it, and ensure the oil is correctly added. In this article, we’ll go through everything you need to know, from how to take engine oil to how to properly close the lid and ensure your engine runs smoothly.
How to Take Engine Oil
When it comes to taking engine oil out, either for a change or to check its condition, understanding the process is essential to avoid spilling or damaging the engine.
Understanding the Need to Change Engine Oil
Motor oil is essential for lubricating your engine’s moving parts, reducing friction and preventing wear and tear. Over time, the oil breaks down and becomes less effective, which is why changing engine oil regularly is crucial. Generally, it’s recommended to change your oil every 3,000 to 7,000 miles, but this can vary depending on your car’s make and model.
Steps for Removing the Engine Oil
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Lift the Car Ensure the car is on a flat surface. Use a jack and place the car securely on jack stands.
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Find the Drain Plug The engine oil drain plug is usually located beneath the engine. You may need to remove a protective cover.
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Remove the Plug Use a wrench to loosen and remove the drain plug. Be careful as the oil will start draining, and it will be hot if the engine was running recently.
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Let the Oil Drain Allow all the old oil to drain out for at least 10 minutes.
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Replace the Plug Once the oil has completely drained, replace the drain plug tightly.
Cleaning and Handling Oil
While taking the oil out, be mindful not to spill it. Use an oil pan to catch the old oil and dispose of it in an environmentally friendly way. For cleanliness, wear gloves to avoid contact with the oil, as it can be harmful to your skin.
How to Put Engine Oil
After draining the old oil, it’s time to put new oil in. This is a simple step, but it requires precision to ensure you don’t overfill or underfill the engine.
Selecting the Right Engine Oil
The type of oil required depends on the manufacturer’s recommendations. You can usually find this information in the owner’s manual. There are different types of engine oil, such as synthetic, semi-synthetic, and conventional. Make sure to choose the correct viscosity, indicated by numbers like 5W-30.
Adding New Engine Oil
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Locate the Oil Filler Cap This is typically located on the top of the engine. In most cars, it is a black cap with an oil can symbol.
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Open the Oil Filler Cap Use your hand to unscrew the cap, which you should have already located in the previous step.
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Pour in the Oil Use a funnel to carefully pour the new engine oil into the engine. Do this slowly to avoid spilling. Add oil in small amounts, checking the level frequently.
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Check the Oil Level Use the dipstick to check the oil level. Insert the dipstick, remove it, and wipe it clean. Reinsert it and remove it again to check the oil level. If necessary, add more oil until it reaches the full mark.
Closing the Oil Lid
After adding the oil, don’t forget to close the engine oil lid properly. If the cap is not securely closed, oil can leak or evaporate, leading to engine damage. Here’s how you do it:
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Place the Oil Cap Back on Gently place the cap back on its fitting.
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Twist and Tighten Ensure that the cap is tightened enough to prevent any leaks. But, don’t over-tighten as it could damage the threading.
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Double Check Once secured, give it a slight twist to make sure it’s firmly in place. You should feel some resistance as you turn it, indicating it’s properly closed.
How to Clean Engine Oil
Cleaning up engine oil that has been spilled or is on the engine parts can seem challenging, but it’s an important step for maintaining a clean engine and preventing damage.
Steps to Clean Spilled Engine Oil
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Soak Up the Oil If oil has spilled, the first step is to absorb it using rags or paper towels. Act quickly to avoid stains or damage to surfaces.
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Use Degreaser Apply a degreaser to the affected area. Degreasers are available at auto parts stores, and they help break down the oil.
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Scrub the Surface Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the area with degreaser. This will help lift any remaining oil from the engine parts.
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Wipe the Surface After scrubbing, wipe the area clean with a rag. Be sure to remove any residue left from the degreaser.
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Check for Residue After cleaning, check if there’s any excess oil residue left on the engine. If so, repeat the cleaning steps until the area is spotless.
Preventive Cleaning
For a cleaner engine overall, consider cleaning the oil cap and the surrounding areas regularly. Keeping these areas free of dirt and grime will help the cap seal tightly and ensure the oil stays inside the engine.
Disposal of Old Oil
Remember to always dispose of used engine oil properly. Most auto parts stores accept used oil for recycling, and some service stations will dispose of it for you.
Conclusion
Maintaining your engine oil properly is key to keeping your engine running efficiently. Whether you’re adding new oil, taking out the old, or cleaning up after a spill, it’s essential to handle your engine oil with care. Always ensure the oil lid is properly closed to avoid leaks and maintain your vehicle’s health. Regular oil checks and changes will extend the lifespan of your car and prevent unnecessary repairs.
By following these simple steps, you ensure your engine remains well-oiled, running smoothly, and ready to face the road ahead. Regular maintenance might seem like a hassle, but it saves you money and trouble in the long run, helping your vehicle stay in peak condition.
