How To Change Your Engine Oil at a DIY Car Workshop
Changing your own vehicles engine oil is one of the easiest jobs to do in a DIY car workshop, especially one that provides all the tools and workshop equipment you need
With a hoist, the job is much quicker, cleaner, and safer than doing it on the ground.
This guide covers what you need, how to do it, and what to avoid.
What You’ll Need Before You Start
Bring these with you to the workshop:
Consumables
-
• Correct engine oil for your car
• New oil filter
• Nitrile gloves
• Rags or shop towels
Tools
-
• Oil drain pan
• Funnel (wide or spill-proof)
• Oil filter wrench
• Socket or spanner for sump plug
Step-by-Step Oil Change Process
1. Raise the car on the hoist
Make sure the vehicle is level. This helps the oil drain fully.
2. Remove the sump plug
Position the drain pan under the sump. Loosen the plug slowly. Oil will flow fast at first.
3. Let the oil drain completely
Give it a few minutes. This is where a hoist saves time and mess.
4. Remove the old oil filter
Use an oil filter wrench if needed. Expect some oil to spill.
5. Fit the new oil filter
Lightly oil the rubber seal. Tighten by hand only.
6. Refit the sump plug
Clean the threads. Tighten firmly, not aggressively.
7. Refill with fresh oil
Use a funnel. Add oil gradually. Check the dipstick.
8. Start the engine and check for leaks
Let it idle for 30 seconds. Turn off and recheck oil level.
Common Oil Change Mistakes
• Over-tightening the oil filter
• Forgetting to refit the sump plug washer
• Overfilling the engine
• Not checking for leaks after startup
Avoid these and the job is straightforward.
How Long Does It Take?
At a DIY car workshop, most oil changes take:
• 1–2 hours, including clean-up for a novice
Book Your Hoist Session
An oil change is faster and cleaner on a hoist.
