I want to start doing my own oil changes but I'm nervous about messing something up. I've watched a few YouTube car repair tutorials but they all seem to assume you already know some basics.
Can anyone recommend a really good DIY oil change tutorial that's beginner friendly? Also, what tools do I absolutely need for this? I'm trying to build up my collection of tools for DIY car work but don't want to buy unnecessary stuff.
For a good DIY oil change tutorial, I highly recommend searching YouTube for your specific car model + oil change". The Civic has been around forever so there are tons of great videos. Look for ones that show every step clearly and mention safety precautions.
Essential tools you'll need:
- Socket wrench and the right size socket for your drain plug (usually 14mm, 17mm, or 19mm)
- Oil filter wrench (get the kind that fits over the end of the filter, not the strap kind)
- Drain pan (at least 5 quart capacity)
- Funnel
- Jack and jack stands (NEVER work under a car supported only by a jack)
- Gloves and rags
The process is basically: warm up engine slightly, jack up car and secure with stands, remove drain plug, drain oil, replace drain plug, remove old filter, lubricate new filter gasket with oil, install new filter, lower car, add new oil, check for leaks, check oil level.
Take your time the first few times. It gets much faster with practice. I can do mine in about 20 minutes now.
I just did my first oil change last month! I was super nervous too. The YouTube channel ChrisFix" has amazing tutorials that are really beginner friendly. He shows everything in detail and explains why you're doing each step.
One thing nobody told me that I learned the hard way: make sure you have the new oil filter BEFORE you start. I drained all the oil, took off the old filter, then realized the auto parts store gave me the wrong filter. Had to put the old one back on temporarily and drive to get the right one (with no oil in the engine - not ideal).
Also, buy a Fumoto valve to replace your drain plug. It's like $25 but makes future oil changes so much easier - just flip a lever instead of removing a bolt. Best investment I've made for DIY oil changes.
When looking for DIY oil change tutorials, pay attention to the production quality. Some of the best ones have multiple camera angles so you can see exactly what they're doing. Avoid videos where the person is just holding a phone in one hand while working.
For tools, here's what I'd prioritize:
1. Quality jack and jack stands - this is safety critical, don't cheap out
2. Correct socket for your drain plug - measure it or check your owner's manual
3. Oil filter wrench that actually fits your filter - some cars have weird filter locations
4. Drain pan with at least 1-2 quart capacity more than your oil capacity
5. Funnel with a flexible neck
A pro tip: put down cardboard or an old tarp under your work area. You WILL spill some oil no matter how careful you are. Also, have a container ready for the old oil - most auto parts stores will take it for recycling.
The first time will take you an hour or two. By the third time, you'll be down to 30 minutes. The savings add up fast - I save about $40 every oil change doing it myself.
I've been doing my own oil changes for 15 years. The best advice I can give is to create a checklist and follow it every time. Mine looks like:
1. Gather all tools and supplies
2. Warm engine for 5 minutes
3. Jack up car and use jack stands
4. Place drain pan under drain plug
5. Remove drain plug (careful, oil will be hot!)
6. While draining, remove oil filter
7. Clean drain plug and area around drain hole
8. Install new drain plug washer (if applicable)
9. Reinstall drain plug to proper torque
10. Lubricate new filter gasket with oil
11. Install new filter (hand tight plus 3/4 turn)
12. Lower car
13. Add new oil (check capacity in manual)
14. Start engine, check for leaks
15. Check oil level after 5 minutes
16. Properly dispose of old oil
Following the same steps every time prevents mistakes. Also, write down the date and mileage in your maintenance log.