Regularly changing the oil in your car is essential for maintaining its performance and longevity. Change your car’s oil every 3,000 miles or every three months, whichever comes first. While changing your car’s oil is simple, it can be hazardous if not done correctly. Some of the safety practices you should observe when changing your vehicle’s oil include the below information.
1. Wear Protective Gear
Oil can be hot and can cause burns if it comes into contact with your skin. That’s why When changing your car’s oil, it is essential to wear protective gear. Additionally, you want to protect your eyes from any debris that may fly up during the process.
Not only can the oil be hot, but it can also be filled with contaminants that can irritate your skin. You can protect yourself from any potential skin irritation by wearing gloves and long-sleeved shirts. Safety glasses can also protect your eyes from debris or splashing oil during the oil change.
2. Ensure Your Car is on Level Ground
This is important because if your car is on an incline, the car oil may not drain properly, leading to overfilling or underfilling the tank. You can use a level or a smartphone app to check if your car is on level ground.
If the car is not level, it can lead to inaccurate readings and ultimately cause engine damage. Taking the extra time to ensure your car is on level ground will help ensure a successful oil change and prevent potential issues.
3. Allow the Engine to Cool Down
Allowing the engine to cool is important because the oil can be hot and cause burns if it comes into contact with your skin. Additionally, a hot engine can cause the oil to flow too quickly, which can be dangerous.
4. Use the Correct Tools
You will need an oil filter wrench, a drain pan, a funnel, and a new oil filter. Using the wrong tools can damage your car or make the oil change process more challenging than it needs to be.
Ensure you have all the necessary tools to make the process as smooth as possible. You can consult your car’s manual or research online to ensure you have all the required tools. Using the correct tools makes the process easier and helps prevent potential damage to your car.
5. Properly Dispose of the Old Oil
Used oil is hazardous waste and should never be dumped down the drain or thrown in the trash. Most auto parts stores and service centers have oil recycling programs to dispose of your used oil.
If you are still looking for an oil recycling program, check with your local waste management department for guidance. They can provide information on where to take your used oil for proper disposal. Disposing of the old oil properly is crucial to protect the environment and avoid potential fines.
6. Check for Leaks
Start your car and let it run for a few minutes, then turn it off and check for oil leaks. If you notice any leaks, you should address them immediately to prevent further damage to your car.
If there is a leak, it can cause damage to your engine and other parts of your car. Taking the time to check for leaks after an oil change can help you detect any issues early on and prevent costly repairs in the future.
7. Tighten All Parts
This includes the oil filter, the oil drain plug, and the oil filler cap. Loose parts can cause leaks, which can be dangerous for you and your car. It is essential to double-check that all parts are appropriately tightened before driving your car. Loose parts can also cause oil to leak out, leading to a potential fire hazard.
8. Follow the Manufacturer’s Guidelines
Every car is different, and the oil change process may vary depending on the make and model of your car. Refer to the owner’s manual for instructions on changing your car’s oil.
Changing your car’s oil is a straightforward process that can help maintain the performance and longevity of your car. However, it is essential to follow safety practices to ensure the process is done safely and efficiently. Following these safety practices, you can ensure your oil change process goes smoothly and safely.
