Lifting a car for an oil change might seem like a straightforward task, but it’s one that requires careful attention to detail. Failure to properly lift your vehicle could lead to accidents or damage to your car. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on the best way to lift a car for an oil change, which can help you to perform this task safely and efficiently.
Before you get started, it’s important to ensure that you have all the necessary tools and equipment at your disposal. You will need a quality jack, jack stands, and a wheel chock to prevent the vehicle from moving. Always make sure that you are working in a safe and stable environment, and that the ground beneath the car is level and firm.
Preparations Before Lifting Your Car for an Oil Change
Before lifting your car for an oil change, you need to prepare your car and your workspace to ensure a smooth and safe process. Here are the steps to follow:
| Park your car on a flat surface: | It’s essential to park your car on a flat and stable surface, such as a driveway or a garage floor, to avoid the risk of your car rolling or sliding. |
| Turn off your car: | Before lifting your car, make sure to turn off your engine and engage the parking brake to prevent your car from moving. |
| Gather your equipment: | You will need a hydraulic jack, jack stands or car ramps, and a wrench to remove the oil plug. Make sure your equipment is in good condition and rated to lift your car’s weight. |
| Locate the oil filter and oil pan: | The oil filter and oil pan are usually located under your car’s hood. Consult your car’s manual to locate these parts before starting the lifting process. |
Different Methods of Lifting a Car for an Oil Change
There are several ways to lift a car for an oil change, each with its pros and cons. Here are the most common methods:
Hydraulic Jack:
A hydraulic jack is a popular tool for lifting cars for an oil change. It’s easy to use, relatively inexpensive and can lift your car quickly. It’s vital to ensure that the hydraulic jack is stable and securely in place to avoid accidents.
Jack Stands:
Jack stands are a more stable and secure option for lifting your car. They are usually made of sturdy materials such as steel and can hold a significant amount of weight. However, they require more effort and time to set up and are not as portable as hydraulic jacks.
Car Ramps:
Car ramps are another popular option for lifting your car for an oil change. They are easy to use and provide a gradual incline, making it easy to drive your car up onto the ramp. They require more space and are not suitable for cars with low clearance.
Blocks:
Blocks are simple and effective tools that you can use to lift your car for an oil change. They come in different sizes and materials such as wood, plastic, and rubber. To use blocks, place them under the car’s frame, making sure they’re securely in place before raising the car with a hydraulic jack.
Safety Precautions to Take When Lifting Your Car for an Oil Change
Lifting your car for an oil change can be a hazardous task if you don’t take the necessary precautions. Here are the safety measures to take:
Use the Right Equipment
Make sure you have the right equipment and that it’s in good condition before starting the lifting process. Using faulty or worn-out equipment can result in accidents and injuries.
Lift Your Car on a Flat and Stable Surface
As mentioned earlier, it’s essential to lift your car on a flat and stable surface to prevent your car from rolling or sliding.
Use Jack Stands or Blocks
Never rely on a hydraulic jack alone to hold your car. Always use jack stands or blocks to secure your car and prevent it from falling.
Avoid Working Under the Car
Never work under the car while it’s lifted. It’s essential to lower the car onto the jack stands or blocks before working under it.
Wear Protective Gear
Always wear protective gear such as gloves, safety glasses, and closed-toe shoes when lifting your car to avoid injuries.
A Step-by-step Guide to Lifting a Car for an Oil Change
Step 1: Find the Right Jacking Points
The first step in lifting your car is to locate the right jacking points. These points are designed to hold the weight of the vehicle and are usually indicated in the owner’s manual. It’s important to avoid lifting your car from any other points, as this can cause damage to the vehicle.
Once you have identified the jacking points, position your jack beneath them. Most cars have jacking points located along the frame rail or under the front and rear axles. If you are unsure of the exact location of these points, consult your owner’s manual.
Step 2: Use a Jack to Lift the Vehicle
Once you have located the jacking points, it’s time to use your jack to lift the vehicle. Begin by cranking the jack up until it just touches the car’s frame. Be sure to position the jack in the center of the jacking point, to ensure that the weight of the vehicle is evenly distributed.
Slowly pump the jack handle until the car is lifted to the desired height. Avoid overextending the jack, as this can cause it to tip over or fail. Once the car is lifted, slide the jack stands underneath the car, making sure to position them on a firm and level surface.
Step 3: Secure the Vehicle With Jack Stands
After lifting your car with the jack, it’s important to secure it with jack stands. Jack stands are designed to hold the weight of the car, and they provide a stable platform for you to work under the vehicle. Make sure that the jack stands are positioned beneath the car’s jacking points, and that they are adjusted to the right height.
To test whether the jack stands are securely in place, give the car a gentle shake. If the car wobbles or moves, the jack stands are not secure, and you should readjust them. It’s important to never work under a car that is only supported by a jack, as this can be extremely dangerous.
Step 4: Remove the Oil Filter and Drain Plug
Once your vehicle is securely lifted and supported, it’s time to start the oil change process. Begin by removing the oil filter and drain plug. Use a wrench or socket to loosen the drain plug and drain the old oil into a catch pan.
Next, remove the old oil filter and replace it with a new one. Be sure to lubricate the gasket on the new filter before installing it, and tighten it by hand until it is snug. Avoid over-tightening the filter, as this can cause it to leak.
Step 5: Refill the Engine With New Oil
After you have removed the old oil filter and drained the old oil, it’s time to refill the engine with fresh oil. Be sure to consult your owner’s manual for the correct oil type and capacity.
Slowly pour the new oil into the engine, using a funnel to prevent spills. Once you have added the recommended amount of oil, replace the oil filler cap and start the engine.
Step 6: Check for Leaks and Oil Level
After you have added new oil, it’s important to check for leaks and ensure that the oil level is correct. Run the engine for a few minutes and then turn it off. Use a rag to wipe the dipstick clean, and then reinsert it into the engine. Remove the dipstick again and check the oil level. If the oil level is too low, add more oil until it reaches the correct level. If you’ve ever been driving on the road and noticed a stream of smoke coming from your car, it might be a sign that your oil levels are too low.
Inspect the area around the oil filter and drain plug for leaks. If you notice any leaks, tighten the drain plug or oil filter as necessary. It’s important to address leaks immediately, as they can cause serious damage to your engine.
Step 7: Lower the Vehicle
Once you have completed the oil change and checked for leaks (fixing an oil leak is not as difficult as it may seem and can often be done with a few basic tools and some know-how), it’s time to lower the vehicle. Begin by removing the jack stands, and then slowly lower the car using the jack. Make sure that you are standing clear of the vehicle as you lower it, and that the wheels are chocked to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
Once the vehicle is safely on the ground, turn off the engine and check the oil level once again. If necessary, add more oil until it reaches the correct level.
Outcome
Changing your car’s oil is an important task that can help to prolong the life of your engine. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can safely and efficiently lift your car for an oil change. Always make sure that you have the necessary tools and equipment, and that you are working in a safe and stable environment.
Remember to consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions on jacking points and oil type and capacity. If you are not comfortable performing an oil change yourself, it’s always best to consult a professional mechanic. With the right tools and knowledge, however, changing your car’s oil can be a simple and rewarding task.
FAQ’s
Why Do I Need to Lift My Car for an Oil Change?
Lifting your car for an oil change allows you to access the oil drain plug and oil filter easily, making it simpler to replace old oil with new oil. This helps to ensure that your car is running smoothly and can prevent potential engine damage. Additionally, it can be dangerous to work under a car that is not properly lifted and secured, making it important for your safety as well.
How Many Jack Stands Do I Need to Use to Lift My Car?
You should use four jack stands to lift your car, one for each side of the car. This ensures that the weight of the car is evenly distributed, making it more stable and less likely to tip or fall. It’s important to choose jack stands that are rated to support the weight of your car and are placed on a flat and stable surface.
Can I Lift My Car With a Floor Jack and Then Place Jack Stands Under It?
Yes, you can use a floor jack to lift your car, but it’s important to use jack stands to hold the weight of the car. Once the car is lifted to the desired height, the jack stands should be placed under the reinforced sections of the frame rails. This ensures that the car is properly supported and stable, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.
Do I Need to Remove the Wheels to Lift My Car for an Oil Change?
No, you don’t need to remove the wheels to lift your car for an oil change. However, it’s important to chock the wheels to prevent the car from rolling. Once the car is lifted to the desired height, you can access the oil drain plug and oil filter without removing the wheels, making the process easier and more efficient.
Is It Safe to Lift My Car on a Gravel Surface?
No, it’s not safe to lift your car on a gravel surface. The uneven and unstable surface can cause the jack or jack stands to shift or sink, making the car unstable and increasing the risk of accidents or injuries. It’s important to lift your car on a flat and stable surface, such as a concrete garage floor or asphalt driveway, to ensure safety and stability.
How Do I Know if I’ve Lifted My Car High Enough for an Oil Change?
To know if you have lifted your car high enough for an oil change, you should check the clearance between the ground and the undercarriage of the car. You can also refer to your car’s owner’s manual for the recommended height for lifting the car. It’s important to ensure that the car is high enough for you to comfortably access the oil drain plug and oil filter, but not so high that it becomes unstable or dangerous.