How long does it take to change the oil on a car?

I'm a seasoned mechanic with years of experience under the hood. When it comes to the task of changing the oil on a car, it's a procedure that many drivers might not be familiar with, but it's a crucial part of maintaining the health and longevity of your vehicle's engine. Let's dive into the details.

Step 1: Preparation
Before you begin, gather all the necessary tools and materials. You'll need a jack, jack stands, a wrench, an oil drain pan, a funnel, a new oil filter, and of course, the oil itself. It's also a good idea to have a clean rag, a torque wrench, and a new oil filter wrench if your car requires it. Safety first, so gloves and eye protection are also essential.

Step 2: Raise the Vehicle
Start by parking the car on a level surface and engaging the parking brake. Use the jack to lift the front of the vehicle (for a front-engine car) and place jack stands under the appropriate support points to ensure stability.

**Step 3: Locate the Oil Pan and Drain the Oil**
Find the oil pan underneath the vehicle and place the drain pan underneath it. Use the wrench to unscrew the oil drain plug and allow the old oil to drain into the pan. It's important to let the oil drain completely.

Step 4: Remove the Old Oil Filter
While the oil is draining, you can remove the old oil filter. It's located on the side of the engine and can be removed using an oil filter wrench. Be careful, as it may be hot and covered in oil.

Step 5: Clean the Area
Once the old oil filter is removed, clean the area around the filter with a rag to remove any residual oil or debris.

Step 6: Install the New Oil Filter
Apply a thin layer of new oil to the gasket of the new oil filter. This helps to create a better seal. Install the new filter by hand, making sure it's snug but not overtightened.

**Step 7: Replace the Drain Plug and Fill with New Oil**
After the old oil has completely drained, replace the oil drain plug. Then, using the funnel, fill the engine with the recommended amount of new oil.

**Step 8: Lower the Vehicle and Check the Oil Level**
Carefully lower the vehicle back onto the ground. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new oil. Turn off the engine and check the oil level using the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary to reach the correct level.

Step 9: Dispose of Old Oil Properly
Finally, properly dispose of the used oil and filter at a recycling center or an auto parts store that accepts automotive waste.

The time it takes to change the oil can vary greatly depending on your experience and the tools you have available. For a beginner, it might take a couple of hours, while for a more experienced DIYer or a professional mechanic, it could be done in 30 to 45 minutes as you mentioned. However, it's not just about the time; it's about doing the job correctly and safely.

There are indeed some special cases, such as vehicles with dry sump lubrication systems, which have a different procedure for oil changes. These systems are more complex and typically found in high-performance or racing vehicles.

In conclusion, changing the oil on a car is a straightforward process that, when done correctly, can significantly extend the life of your engine. It's always best to consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific instructions and to ensure you're using the correct type of oil and filter for your car.

Bring the car down to the ground, check the oil level and you are done. This jobs takes between 30 and 45 minutes, depending how skilled you are and if you have professional tools or not. There are some rare cars with dry sump lubrication. They have a different oil change procedure.