As a used car owner, you should never overlook the importance of getting the motor oil and oil filter changed regularly, and it is something you can do at home. It's quick, it's easy and it can feel rewarding knowing you did it yourself. Just follow these simple steps to change the oil in your used car. We'll start this article off with the first 7 steps for changing your oil. In the second article we will provide the last 4 steps. So without further adieu here are your first 7 steps: Step 1 The first thing you need to do is find a spot on your driveway or in the garage that is nice and flat. My grandfather would actually use the ditch out front of his house, his own personal hoist he would call it. Step 2 This is usually a personal preference. Some people may tell you it is better to change oil when it is hot, others say when it is cold. Whatever you decide to do, drive around the neighbourhood to warm up the oil or change it while it is cold, the second step would be to properly secure your used car. Ensure the parking brake is set and block the tires and or set the car up on jack stands. Step 3 It is now time to slide under your car to find the oil drain plug, if you don't have a mechanics dolly you can always try your kids skateboard to get under there easily. The oil drain plug should be the closest thing to the ground and it looks like a large nut with a washer under it. Sometimes it may even be labelled as drain plug. Just make sure you are not looking at the transmission drain plug. Step 4 Using your 3/8-Drive Socket Set find a socket that fits the oil drain plug and loosen it to the point that you can turn it with your hands. Not too much though or you will have oil all over your face. Step 5 Spread the old newspapers under the car to catch any dripping oil from both the drain plug and where the oil filter sticks out. Next, place whatever container you are going to use to catch the used oil and then remove the drain plug completely. Step 6 Next take your Oil Filter Wrench and loosen the oil filter, once it feels loose continue to remove it completely by hand, but be careful, because if you warmed up the car there will be hot oil in the filter. Drain the filter into your container and place the used oil filter in the Ziploc bag. Step 7 It's time to get out from under the car, open the hood and remove the oil filler cap, this will help drain the used oil a little faster. The majority of the oil will drain within the first two minutes, but if you have the time it is a good idea to let the oil fully drain for about an hour. Ok, that about does it for the first seven steps. Since you have some time why not go for a snack, or maybe a nap? Meet me back here in an hour for Part II and the last 4 steps on how to change your oil.

corey rozon is a freelance writer from ottawa. when changing your oil, don't forget to pick up some oil filters for your used cars ontario.

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