Preventive maintenance is regularly done by changing the engine oil frequently as this tends to get diluted and get contaminants over time thus resulting in much wear. It is recommended changing the oil filter every time the oil is dumped since it is relatively cheaper and can be easily fixed. In preparation for handling or working with milk, it helps to compile all equipment and substances before handling; this should involve use of newspaper and rags for cleaning spills. Work under the car is convenient if the car is lifted on a hoist or ramps, or it is on jack stands, whereas, one should be very careful working underneath a car being supported only by a bumper or a jack. Touch the oil drain plug and the oil filter locations, bring the engine up to normal temp, and get any other tools or oil that may be needed during this warm up. When it is sufficient, drain the used engine oil, and once the new oil is warm, jack up and safely snug the vehicle and placing the drain pan beneath the plug. Using a wrench, unscrew the drain plug slowly to let the oil to flow into the pan and afterward, clean the drain plug and its vicinity and replace it by tightening it. After that, locate the drain pan and place it underneath the oil filter, tightening the oil filter wrench in order to take out the old filter and disposing it into the drain pan, while the content of the filter is being thrown into the drain pan too. Ally the old filter to the new filter to confirm they have the same specifications, than clean the area where the new filter will be mounted, and finally check the Rubber gasket removed from the old filter to see if it is stuck to the engine. Use a thin layer of clean oil in the gasket of the new filter, then the new filter as per manufacturers recommendation, withdrawing all your tools and rags from beneath the car before reducing the car. Over the engine compartment is where the oil filler cap is found and enough fresh oil needs to be poured through the opening which can be done with the help of a funnel. Pour the correct amount of oil and make sure you read and check the dip stick if the engine has to be started, to circulate the new oil. When it has barely warmed up, drop the pan and scrutinize the dipstick and oil filter location for signs of leakage, then replace the oil pan drain plug and re-insert the filter if removed; check the oil quality by holding the dipstick and top up with more oil if necessary. In the subsequent journeys after the change of the oil in the car, one should check out for any signs of dripping and the level of oil. Safely get rid of old oil as you have to take it to the recycling center do not dump it on the ground or drain. Some models have an item showing when the next maintenance is due; go to the maintenance data, choose "Engine Oil" from the options and set the new interval for the oil change.
Posted by NissanPartsDeal Specialist