How to Change Your Car's Motor Oil

Nowadays a simple oil change can cost you at least $25. Most owners' manuals recommend a new oil change every 3,000 miles. In today's economy, most of us have to tighten their belts, but it is not recommended to skimp on oil changes. Regular oil changes are recommended in order to ensure a smooth running engine. This will not only reduce gasoline expenses, but also without an oil change, the motor oil in your car will get dirtier and dirtier eventually resulting in a ruined engine. If you are remotely handy, you can save some money by doing your own oil change. Changing your car's motor oil is an easy do-it-yourself job as long as you don't mind getting a little dirty. Even women will find this is a maintenance job for their car they can easily handle themselves. Just follow this easy eight-step instruction guide:

As a first step to changing your own motor oil you will have to gather up all the materials and tools. Just like when baking a pie, you don't want to have to search for an 'ingredient' in the middle of the oil changing process. If you don't already own the required materials, you will be able to purchase them at a local automotive, hardware, or mass-merchandising store. Here is a list of materials needed:

- Oil (Consult your car's owner's manual or a sales associate to find out what type of oil your car should use and how much of it is needed.)

- Ratcheting Wrench

- Socket Set

- Oil Filter Wrench

- New oil filter (Check with your owner's manual or a sales associate to find out the kind needed for your vehicle.)

- A bucket to drain your old motor oil into (It needs to be big enough for that purpose. The average engine holds about five to six quarts of oil)

- Ramps (For safety purposes you should not use car jacks to elevate the car)

- Something to lay on, while working under the car (If you want more comfort, you might want to choose something to lay with your back on that also has wheels to easily roll yourself under the car)

- Sturdy gloves

- Old rag/shop rag for cleaning up small spills

- Funnel