{"id":10225,"date":"2025-10-17T14:15:10","date_gmt":"2025-10-17T13:15:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/?p=10225"},"modified":"2026-04-02T15:04:50","modified_gmt":"2026-04-02T14:04:50","slug":"how-to-change-engine-oil","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/how-to-change-engine-oil\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Change Engine Oil | Step-by-Step DIY Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Is that engine oil light on your dashboard making your heart race? It is stressful but important. Because an engine is a combination of complex moving parts, it needs to run smoothly. By timely changing engine oil, your car engine will run smoothly for a longer time, and it even helps in fuel economy. It is an important part of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/how-to-take-care-of-your-car\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">car maintenance<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Although the oil can also be changed at home with proper tools, and you don\u2019t need to visit a garage. In this blog, we will walk you through the whole process of how to change engine oil step-by-step.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So let\u2019s get started!<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Key Takeaways: How to Change Engine Oil?<\/h2>\n<p>Changing engine oil at home is simple: gather tools, follow safety steps, drain old oil, replace filter, refill with correct grade, check for leaks, dispose responsibly, and record your maintenance<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"253\" data-end=\"1474\">\n<li data-start=\"253\" data-end=\"382\">\n<p data-start=\"255\" data-end=\"382\"><strong data-start=\"255\" data-end=\"298\">Regular oil changes protect your engine<\/strong>: Timely oil changes reduce friction, prevent overheating, and extend engine life.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"383\" data-end=\"539\">\n<p data-start=\"385\" data-end=\"539\"><strong data-start=\"385\" data-end=\"438\">DIY oil changes are possible with the right tools<\/strong>: Spanners, oil filter wrenches, drain pan, funnel, gloves, and ramps or axle stands are essential.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"540\" data-end=\"658\">\n<p data-start=\"542\" data-end=\"658\"><strong data-start=\"542\" data-end=\"558\">Safety first<\/strong>: Always work on a level surface, wear gloves and eye protection, and never rely solely on a jack.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"659\" data-end=\"820\">\n<p data-start=\"661\" data-end=\"820\"><strong data-start=\"661\" data-end=\"685\">Follow correct steps<\/strong>: Warm the engine, drain old oil, replace the filter, refill with recommended oil, check for leaks, and dispose of waste responsibly.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"821\" data-end=\"967\">\n<p data-start=\"823\" data-end=\"967\"><strong data-start=\"823\" data-end=\"860\">Choose the right oil for your car<\/strong>: Use manufacturer-approved grades and specifications (e.g., 5W-30, ACEA C3) listed in your car handbook.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"968\" data-end=\"1098\">\n<p data-start=\"970\" data-end=\"1098\"><strong data-start=\"970\" data-end=\"995\">Avoid common mistakes<\/strong>: Don\u2019t reuse the sump plug washer, avoid overfilling, and ensure the oil filter is fitted correctly.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1099\" data-end=\"1247\">\n<p data-start=\"1101\" data-end=\"1247\"><strong data-start=\"1101\" data-end=\"1133\">Responsible disposal matters<\/strong>: Used engine oil is hazardous \u2014 recycle at local centres or approved garages to stay environmentally compliant.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1248\" data-end=\"1375\">\n<p data-start=\"1250\" data-end=\"1375\"><strong data-start=\"1250\" data-end=\"1271\">Track maintenance<\/strong>: Record the date and mileage of each oil change to maintain service history and support resale value.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><div class=\"row saq-cta_div\">\n      <div class=\"col-xl-12\">\n        <div class=\"bg-yellow exchange-deal-content\" style=\"padding: 5rem 3rem;\">\n          <div class=\"title\">\n            <h3 class=\"big mb-4\">\n              Car damaged beyond repair? Sell it as it is\n            <\/h3>\n            <p class=\"h6 mb-0 fw-normal\">\n              If your car&#8217;s already damaged, Exchange My Car can help. Compare instant offers, book free collection, and get paid fast. It\u2019s quick, simple, and all online.\n            <\/p>\n\t\t\t\n          <\/div>\n         \t <form class=\"row g-4 g-sm-5 gy-5 get-quote-form\" style=\"margin-top:20px;\" action=\"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/my-details\" method=\"post\" id=\"reg_form\" name=\"reg_form\">\n    <div class=\"col-6\">\n      <div class=\"position-relative\">\n        <div class=\"gb-icon-wrap small\">\n          <img src=\"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/ssaq\/assets\/images\/icons\/gb.svg\" alt=\"GB\">\n        <\/div>\n        <input type=\"text\" name=\"reg_num\" required=\"\" class=\"form-control gb-icon saq-reg_field_color saq-milage-field\" placeholder=\"ENTER REG \" title=\"Please enter registration number\" maxlength=\"7\" value=\"\">\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"col-6\">\n          <input type=\"number\" class=\"form-control js-milage_commo saq-milage-field  saq-mileage_field_color\" name=\"mileage\" placeholder=\"MILEAGE\">\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"col-12\">\n      <button type=\"submit\" name=\"homesearch\" class=\"btn btn-big  saq-button-field btn-blue w-100\">Sell your car!<\/button>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/form>\n        <\/div>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Which Tools are Needed to Change Engine Oil?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before you get started, it is important to collect some of the tools to make the job quicker, cleaner and safer. Here\u2019s what you\u2019ll need to change your car\u2019s engine oil at home.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Spanner<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oil filter spanner<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oil drain pan<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Funnel<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Protective gloves<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Jack and jack stands<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oil \u2013 check what oil you\u2019ll need and how much in your car owner\u2019s manual<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Replacement oil filter<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Safety Precautions Before You Start Changing Engine Oil<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While changing oil at home, it is important to keep yourself safe because it involves working under a vehicle and handling hot liquids. Here is how you can make yourself safe:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Park your car on a level surface\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Protect yourself by wearing heat-resistant gloves and safety googles<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Keep a suitable fire extinguisher nearby<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Perfectly place an oil drain pan<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to Change Engine Oil Step-by-Step:\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Changing your engine oil is straightforward if you follow a careful, step-by-step process. We\u2019ve broken it down so you can do it safely and efficiently at home.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Step 1: Warm the engine<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Engine oil drains out easily when the engine is slightly warm. Start your car and let it idle for a few minutes, then switch it off and allow it to cool down slightly. This will thin out old oil and allow it to carry out all contaminants with it.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Step 2: Drain Old Oil<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Now it\u2019s time to drain out the old oil. It is important to keep the drain pan in the perfect position so that it drains perfectly without spilling here and there. Then slowly unscrew the plug, and it will start pouring immediately, so be prepared.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Step 3: Replace Oil Filter<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An oil filter&#8217;s primary function is to capture contaminants. It\u2019s important to replace filter every time you change the oil filter. Here is how you can replace the oil filter:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Locate the filter, which is usually near the engine block.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unscrew the old filter with a filter spanner<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check that the old filter\u2019s rubber seal isn\u2019t stuck to the engine.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Screw new filter by hand first and then tighten it with a spanner.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Step 4: Refill with Fresh Oil<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Now the system is ready for new oil, and make sure you are pouring the correct grade and specification for your car. First locate the cap and remove it. Then insert a clean funnel and slowly pour in the recommended amount of fresh oil. Lastly, refit the cap and start the engine for a while to let oil circulate for a minute.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Step 5: Check for leaks &amp; level<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><img src=\"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/assets\/empty.png\" data-original=\"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/timthumb.php?src=https%3A%2F%2Fexchangemycar.co.uk%2Fblog%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F08%2Fcheck-oil.jpg&w=777&h=485\" class=\"img-fluid img-inherit img-cover lazy\" alt=\"how to change engine oil\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before everything is done, it is important to check for all leaks and levels. Leaks can be spotted by starting the engine for 60 seconds while keeping an eye underneath for any drop. If there is any, fix it promptly. For a level check, switch off the car engine and let the oil settle down. Then recheck the oil level using the dipstick.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Step 6: Dispose of waste oil &amp; clean up<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lastly, you are not finished yet until you sustainably dispose of waste oil. Because used engine oil is hazardous, never pour it down drains, onto the ground, or in your household bin. Pour the old oil into a clean, sealed container. Then take it to your local recycling centre or to a local auto parts store.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Choosing the Right Oil &amp; Filter<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before you buy anything, you should read the manual first to know which oil you need to buy for your car. It lists the recommended oil grade (for example, 5W-30 or 0W-20) and whether it should meet <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/European_Automobile_Manufacturers_Association\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ACEA<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or API specifications. The W illustrates <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">how it flows when cold (W for winter), and the second number (30) tells you how it flows when hot.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When selecting a filter, ensure it is either manufacturer-approved or a high-quality alternative. Always prioritise quality, because a better filler offers better filtration and durability.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Recommended Engine Oil for Popular UK Cars<\/span><\/h3>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Car Model<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Engine Type<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Recommended Oil Viscosity<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Oil Specification<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/sell-my-car\/makes\/volkswagen\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Volkswagen<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Golf Mk7<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Petrol &amp; Diesel<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5W-30 or 5W-40<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ACEA C3 or A3\/B4; VW 504 00\/507 00<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ford Focus<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Petrol (e.g., 1.6 Ti)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5W-30<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ACEA A5\/B5<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">BMW 3 Series<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Petrol &amp; Diesel<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5W-30 or 0W-30<\/span><\/td>\n<td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/sell-my-car\/makes\/bmw\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">BMW<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Longlife-04<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nissan Qashqai<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Petrol &amp; Diesel<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10W-40 or 5W-40<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ACEA A3\/B4 or ACEA C3<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kia Sportage<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diesel (e.g., 1.7 CRDi)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5W-30<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ACEA C3<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common Mistakes to Avoid<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Changing engine oil is a simple process, but small mistakes can cost you more. So be keen while changing engine oil and here is how you can avoid mistakes:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not replacing the sump plug washer, and always using a new washer for a proper seal.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Using the wrong oil grade, so check your car\u2019s manual.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Overtightening the oil filter can strip threads and crack parts.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Skipping safety measures\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How often should I change my car\u2019s oil in the UK?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The old standard is around 3000 miles, where a car owner should change their car\u2019s engine oil. In modern cars, it&#8217;s often between <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10,000 and 20,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first. However, you will find the best answer in your car\u2019s manual, which will give the most accurate interval.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do I need to change the oil filter every time?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, it&#8217;s highly recommended. A new filter is inexpensive insurance for your engine. Putting fresh, clean oil through an old, dirty filter will contaminate the new oil almost immediately.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How do I dispose of used engine oil in the UK?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The best way to dispose of used engine oil is to pour it in a sealed container. Then take it to the designated oil banks or to a local recycling centre. Also, keep in mind that never pour into solid or drainage. It is iligal and environmentally harmful.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How long does a DIY oil change usually take?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For most UK cars, a full DIY oil change takes 30\u201360 minutes, including draining, filter replacement, refill, and clean-up.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Why is an engine oil change necessary?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Engine is the combination of complex moving parts and needs to be lubricated for better movement. It reduces friction and prevents <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/engine-overheating\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">engine overheating<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Engine oil also behaves like a cooling agent, which draws heat away from the engine.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Conclusion: How to Change Engine Oil<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regularly changing engine oil after specific intervals is the best practice to maintain your car. It helps in running your car smoothly and maintaining engine health for a long time. By now you may have got all those important steps on how to change engine oil safely at home. Everyone can do that with proper tools and precautions.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For car maintenance expert advice, visit our <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">blog<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> section.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Is that engine oil light on your dashboard making your heart race? It is stressful but important. Because an engine is a combination of complex moving parts, it needs to run smoothly. By timely changing engine oil, your car engine will run smoothly for a longer time, and it even helps in fuel economy. It [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":10226,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"_mi_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0},"categories":[1],"tags":[1744,1743,1742,1745],"acf":[],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10225"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/15"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=10225"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10225\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":11481,"href":"https:\/\/exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10225\/revisions\/11481"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/10226"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=10225"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=10225"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=10225"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}