Changing Your Oil

Changing the oil on a car is one of the more difficult maintenance tasks. Many times it is just as easy to take it to the local Wal-Mart auto shop to avoid the labor, and it costs nearly as much to buy the oil and oil filter yourself. I recommend having it done professionally, but it should not cost you more than $30 to have it done. Don't let the repairmen talk you into the more expensive oil, because unless you drive a sports car, it really isn't necessary. You should change your oil every 4,000 miles, or every six months if you do not drive that often.

One thing that you do need to check once a month is your oil level. I will tell you how to do this to keep your engine working great. CAUTION: If your oil gets too low, your engine can overheat and break, which can cost thousands of dollars to fix or replace.

1. Park your car on a level surface.
2. Pop the hood and locate the oil dipstick (the handle is usually is yellow).
3. Remove the dipstick and wipe it off with a clean towel.
4. Return the dipstick and push it all the way in.
5. Remove the dipstick again and check to see if the oil is within the normal range.
6. If the oil is low, add oil until it is within the normal range, but be sure to avoid overfilling.
7. Return the dipstick once you are done.

Click here to watch instructional video on how to check your oil level.