You’ve probably heard that oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle. When it gets dirty, your engine suffers, that’s why regular oil changes are recommended. An essential step in the process is swapping out the old oil filter for a new one. Because otherwise, what’s the point? When it comes to removing and replacing the filter, here are a few tips, courtesy of Peruzzi Toyota.
Start by running the engine for a few minutes, so that any contaminants circulate. Shut off the engine and engage the parking brake. Locate the oil drain plug underneath your car, and place a pan or basin big enough to catch all the oil beneath it. Loosen the plug with a wrench, then remove it by hand. Allow all the oil to drain out, then replace the drain plug.
Now, tackle the oil filter. It will be filled with hot oil, so make sure the basin is in place to catch it. Loosen the old filter by turning it counterclockwise with an oil filter wrench, then removing it by hand.
You can find the correct filter for your vehicle by checking your owner’s manual or asking at the automotive parts store. Before you install it, rub a little clean oil around the rubber gasket; this will help ensure a solid fit. Screw the new filter onto the engine block by hand, being careful not to over-tighten it (a half to three-quarters of a turn should do the trick). A too-tight filter can crack and leak.
Using the recommended viscosity and using a funnel, pour in all but one quart of the new oil. Replace the cap, and run the engine to let it circulate. Turn off the car and check for any leaks (fix them as needed). Wait a few more minutes, then use a clean dipstick to check the oil level. Continue adding oil a little at a time, until it reads “full” (wiping the dipstick in between each check).
Dispose of your old oil and oil filter at your nearest oil recycling center. Any questions? The expert mechanics at Peruzzi Toyota are ready to help. Visit our Toyota service center for help with changing oil or any other maintenance task your vehicle requires. If you’re looking for a new vehicle instead, look no further than Peruzzi Toyota’s huge selection of nearly 300 new Toyota vehicles available for purchase or lease near Allentown, PA and Bethlehem, PA. If you’re looking for something less expensive or from a different brand, Peruzzi Toyota also has an inventory of nearly 500 pre-owned vehicles available for purchase in Hatfield, PA. Visit us today at 2601 Bethlehem Pike in Hatfield, PA or give us a call at 877-545-2111 to learn more or schedule an appointment.
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