Cost is one of the major reasons why so many people change their own car oil. There's a small initial investment for supplies, but you'll make that back the first time you do it yourself. Frequent oil changes are the best preventative maintenance the home mechanic can give the engine, because old oil becomes contaminated and burnt, which leads to premature engine wear.
             Changing oil can be a messy job, so wear old clothes and have plenty of rags and old newspaper handy. Before starting, you'll need clean oil and a new oil filter as well as a few hand tools like, a drain pan, gloves, oil filter, wrench, ratchet, and several assorted-size sockets. Depending on what kind of car you have determines what type of filter and oil you need. The best selling car oils in the U.S. are 5W30 and 10W30. If you're still unsure, read over the owner's manual again, or consult a local mechanic.
             Make sure all the necessary tools are available, and that your car is parked on a level spot. Wear gloves to stay clean. Warm oil drains more easily than cold oil, so run your engine for just a few minutes before you start. Next, raise the front part of the car; be sure to support it safely on jack stands. Now that the vehicle is raised, place the drain pan under the drain plug, and remove the plug with the ratchet and socket. Allow the oil to drain until it slows to a drip. Carefully clean the area around the drain plug opening and the plug itself. Install the drain plug back into the oil pan securely. Loosen the oil filter. Sometimes an oil filter wrench is required because it is installed too tightly. As it is removed, immediately turn it up so that any remaining oil will not spill out. Clean the surface on the engine, so that the new filter will seal properly. Now, screw the new filter in with hand; tighten it firmly. Wipe off any spilled oil on the engine components. Remove all tools and rags from under the vehicl
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