How to Remove Engine Oil?

Removing engine oil requires a careful and methodical approach to avoid spills and ensure safe handling of the used oil. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Warm Up the Engine (Briefly): Run the engine for a few minutes. This warms the oil, making it flow more easily. Do not run it for too long, as hot oil can cause burns. Switch the engine off.

2. Prepare Your Work Area:

   • Park your vehicle on a level surface.
   • Engage the parking brake.
   • Gather necessary tools: a wrench or socket for the drain plug, an oil filter wrench (if you're changing the filter too), a drain pan, gloves, and rags.

3. Position the Drain Pan: Place a drain pan (large enough to hold all the engine oil – check your car's manual for oil capacity) directly beneath the oil drain plug on the engine's oil pan (sump).

4. Locate and Loosen the Drain Plug:

   • Identify the oil drain plug on the bottom of the oil pan. It's usually a large bolt.
   • Clean the plug area with a clean rag to remove any dirt or debris.
   • Use the correct size wrench (usually a ring spanner or socket is best to avoid rounding the bolt) to slightly loosen the drain plug.

5. Remove the Drain Plug and Drain the Oil:

   • Position the drain pan carefully.
   • Carefully unscrew the drain plug completely by hand (wear gloves!). Be ready for the oil to flow out quickly.
   • Let the oil drain completely. This can take 15-30 minutes.

6. Inspect the Drain Plug:

   • Once the oil has finished draining, inspect the drain plug.
   • Check the condition of the sealing washer (if present). Replace it if it's damaged or worn.

7. Reinstall the Drain Plug:

   • Clean the drain plug thoroughly.
   • Install a new sealing washer if needed.
   • Tighten the drain plug to the manufacturer's specified torque (check your car's repair manual). Do not overtighten, as this can damage the oil pan. If you don't have a torque wrench, tighten it snugly, but not excessively.

8. (Optional) Change the Oil Filter: This is usually done at the same time as an oil change. Instructions vary depending on filter type and location. Generally, you'll need an oil filter wrench to loosen the old filter, and then screw the new, pre-lubricated filter on by hand until snug.

9. Add New Oil:

   • Locate the oil fill cap on top of the engine.
   • Remove the cap.
   • Using a funnel, pour in the correct amount of new oil, as specified in your vehicle's owner's manual.
   • Replace the oil fill cap.

10. Check the Oil Level:

    • Wait a few minutes for the oil to settle.
    • Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and then pull it out again to check the oil level.
    • Add more oil if needed to reach the "full" mark on the dipstick.

11. Dispose of the Used Oil Properly:

    • Pour the used oil into a sealed container.
    • Take the used oil to a recycling center or auto parts store for proper disposal. Never pour used oil down the drain or into the ground.

12. Start the Engine and Check for Leaks:

    • Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.
    • Check around the drain plug and oil filter for any leaks. If you see a leak, stop the engine and tighten the plug or filter as needed.