5 Safety Tips to Follow When Changing Your Car's Oil

Is your car overdue for an oil change? Rather than taking it to an auto shop, you can save money by changing it yourself. Many drivers prefer to change their own oil. Using just a few basic tools, you can drain the old oil from your car, followed by pouring new oil into the engine. There are several safety tips you should follow, however, when changing your car's oil.

#1) Park on Level Ground

Never attempt to change the oil with your vehicle parked on a sloped or otherwise unlevel ground. The ground needs to be level. Otherwise, there's a chance that your vehicle may roll away while you are underneath it. Before attempting to change the oil, park your vehicle on level ground and then engage the parking brake.

#2) Wait for the Engine to Cool Down

You should wait for the engine to cool down before attempting to change the oil. As it flows through the engine, it will pick up heat. Motor oil can get very -- sometimes over 250 degrees Fahrenheit during normal usage. if you've driven recently, you'll need to wait for the engine to cool down so that you don't accidentally burn yourself.

#3) Wear Glove

Another safety tip to follow when changing the oil is to wear gloves. Oil is gazardous. While getting some on your hands may seem harmless, this isn't always the case. It can cause allergic dermatitis, meaning you may experience a rash, itching, blisters or other symptoms. Oil can also be absorbed through your skin. By wearing gloves, you won't have to worry about getting oil on your hands.

#4) Use Jack Stands

You'll probably need to get underneath your car to change the oil. You can use a jack, of course, to raise your car off the ground. However, you shouldn't rely entirely on a jack to keep your car elevated. Even if you use a jack to raise it, you should still use jack stands. Placing a set of jack stands underneath your car will keep it raised so that you can safely drain the old oil.

#5) Use the Right Tools

In addition to jack stands, there are certain tools you should use when changing your car's oil. You'll typically need a socket set, an oil filter wrench, a funnel and a drain pan. With the right tools, you'll be able to safely change your car's oil.