Servicing · Car

Change your car's engine oil

An oil change is the most rewarding job to do yourself: half an hour of work, and you choose an oil that meets the manufacturer's spec.

Time 45 minDifficulty ManageableAt a garage, this job costs £70 – £150

Tools

  • Spanner or socket for the drain plug
  • Oil filter wrench (strap or cup)
  • Drain pan of at least 6 litres
  • Axle stands or ramps, jack
  • Funnel, gloves, rags

Parts

  • Oil to the exact spec in the handbook (e.g. 5W30 C2, VW 504.00)
  • Oil filter
  • New drain plug washer

Before you start

Run the engine for 5 minutes: warm oil drains better without being scalding.
Park on level ground and apply the handbrake.

Steps

  1. Raise the front and set the car on axle stands. Never work under a car held only by a jack.
  2. Remove the filler cap on top of the engine so the oil drains faster.
  3. Place the pan, loosen the drain plug, then finish by hand while pressing it against the sump.
  4. Let it drain for 10 to 15 minutes until it only drips.
  5. Unscrew the oil filter. Oil the new filter's seal and tighten by hand, then a quarter turn more.
  6. Refit the plug with a new washer at the specified torque (often 25 to 35 Nm). Over-tightening strips the sump thread.
  7. Pour in 80% of the stated capacity, wait two minutes and check the dipstick.
  8. Top up to MAX, start the engine for 30 seconds, switch off and recheck after five minutes.
  9. Reset the service indicator and take the used oil to a recycling centre.

Safety

Used oil is hazardous waste and must never go down the drain.
Oil that does not meet the manufacturer's spec can damage the engine, notably PureTech wet belts.

Indicative estimate. MecaScan cannot see your vehicle: always have a diagnosis confirmed by a professional, and never work on brakes, steering or airbags without the skills.