Changing your car’s oil is a fundamental maintenance task that can save you money and give you a deeper understanding of your vehicle. Performing an oil change at home is not complicated, but having the right tools is crucial for an efficient, safe, and clean process. As a car owner, equipping yourself with the necessary tools to change oil in your car empowers you to take control of your car’s maintenance schedule and ensures its longevity. This guide will walk you through the essential tools needed for a successful DIY oil change.
1. Car Jack: Lifting Your Vehicle Safely
While your car likely comes with a scissor jack for emergency tire changes, it’s not designed for the repeated and stable lifting required for oil changes. Investing in a proper car jack is one of the first steps when gathering Tools To Change Oil In Car. A floor jack, also known as a trolley jack, is a much safer and more convenient option.
Floor jacks are typically hydraulic and wheeled, making them easy to maneuver and operate. They allow you to lift your car higher and more steadily, providing ample space to work underneath. When choosing a car jack, consider its lifting capacity and maximum height. Ensure the jack’s capacity exceeds your vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) for safety.
For heavier vehicles, the Blackhawk Service Jack, capable of lifting 3-1/2 tons up to 22 inches, is a robust choice, although it is heavier to move around. For lighter vehicles and easier handling, the Pro-Lift Hydraulic Trolley Jack is a more portable option, lifting 1-1/2 tons up to 12 inches. Always prioritize safety and choose a jack that meets or exceeds your vehicle’s specifications.
2. Jack Stands: Ensuring Stable Support
Once your car is lifted with a jack, it is absolutely critical to use jack stands. Jack stands are essential safety tools to change oil in car, providing stable and secure support for your vehicle while you are working underneath. Never rely solely on a car jack to hold the vehicle’s weight during an oil change.
Jack stands come in steel and aluminum. While aluminum might be perceived as weaker, both materials are suitable for jack stands. Steel jack stands are generally more affordable but slightly heavier. The Pro-Lift Double Pin Jack Stands offer a good balance of strength and portability, supporting up to three tons as a pair.
Aluminum jack stands, like the Torin Big Red Lightweight Jack Stands, are lighter and still offer substantial support, also typically rated for three tons per pair. Regardless of the material, always choose jack stands with a weight rating that meets or exceeds your vehicle’s weight and ensure they are properly placed at designated vehicle support points before you begin working under the car.
