Auto Repair Encyclopedia
Sometimes referred to as Engine Oil and Filter, Oil and Filter, Oil Filter, Oil Change, Change Oil, Lube Oil Filter
Engine oil lubricates and removes heat from internal engine components. The oil filter removes harmful deposits from the engine oil, preventing them from being circulated throughout the engine.
Manufacturers differ in their recommended guidelines for when engine oil and oil filters should be changed. As a general rule, however, engine oil should be changed every 3,000 miles to keep the engine healthy and to prolong its life.
When changing or adding engine oil, follow the manufacturer's recommendation for the weight (0/30W, 5/30W, 20/50W), grade, and type of oil to use. Using an incorrect type or weight may invalidate your manufacturer's warranty.
To change the oil and filter, the technician removes the drain plug at the bottom of the engine oil pan and drains the oil. S/He removes the oil filter and replaces it with a new one. The technician reinstalls the drain plug and fills the engine with fresh oil. S/He starts the engine and checks for leaks. Finally, the technician switches off the engine, rechecks the the oil level, and resets the maintenance light.
About this Repair: Oil and Filter Change
Recommendations
Replacing the engine oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, even if the manufacturer recommends it less frequently, can greatly extend the useful life of the engine.
We recommend using a high-quality engine oil filter. Cheap filters wear more quickly and may not properly keep contaminants out of the engine.
We recommend always replacing the drain plug gasket along with the oil and oil filter.
Why this happens
Using high-quality, fully synthetic oil can dramatically extend the life of the engine as well as increase fuel efficiency.
