Mastering Vehicle Maintenance: A Step-by-Step Guide to Oil Changes

Welcome to the Schooler Truck and Auto blog, where we empower Fort Worth businesses with essential automotive knowledge. Today, we're diving into one of the most fundamental aspects of vehicle maintenance: changing the oil. As a trusted provider of premium auto parts since 1944, we understand the importance of regular maintenance in keeping your fleet running smoothly. Join us as we break down the basics of oil changes, empowering you to maintain your company vehicles like a pro.

Why Regular Oil Changes Matter: Before we delve into the step-by-step process, let's quickly review why regular oil changes are crucial for your vehicles. Oil serves as the lifeblood of your engine, lubricating its moving parts, reducing friction, and preventing overheating. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes contaminated with dirt and debris, compromising its effectiveness. Regular oil changes ensure optimal engine performance, prolonging the lifespan of your vehicles and minimizing the risk of costly repairs down the road.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Vehicle's Oil:

1. Gather Your Supplies:
   • New oil filter
   • Appropriate oil for your vehicle (check your owner's manual)
   • Oil filter wrench
   • Drain pan
   • Funnel
   • Gloves and protective eyewear
2. Prepare Your Vehicle:
   • Park on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
   • Allow the engine to cool down to prevent burns.
   • Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels for added safety.
3. Drain the Old Oil:
   • Locate the oil drain plug underneath the vehicle.
   • Position the drain pan beneath the plug.
   • Use a wrench to loosen the drain plug and carefully remove it.
   • Allow the old oil to drain completely into the pan.
4. Replace the Oil Filter:
   • Locate the oil filter, typically near the drain plug.
   • Use an oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old filter.
   • Apply a thin layer of new oil to the rubber gasket of the new filter.
   • Screw the new filter into place by hand, ensuring it's snug but not over-tightened.
5. Refill with Fresh Oil:
   • Consult your owner's manual to determine the correct oil type and capacity.
   • Use a funnel to pour the new oil into the engine.
   • Check the oil level using the dipstick, and add more if necessary.
6. Dispose of Used Oil Properly:
   • Transfer the used oil from the drain pan to a sealed container.
   • Take the used oil to a recycling center or an auto parts store for proper disposal.

Congratulations!
​You've just mastered the art of changing your vehicle's oil. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your company vehicles remain in peak condition, ready to tackle the challenges of the road ahead. At Schooler Truck and Auto, we're committed to empowering Fort Worth businesses with the knowledge and tools they need to keep their fleets running smoothly. Stay tuned to our blog for more expert tips on vehicle maintenance and auto parts essentials.

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