Step-by-Step: What Happens During a Professional Oil Change Service

Getting a professional oil change is one of the most important and routine maintenance tasks for your vehicle. But have you ever wondered what actually happens during the process? Understanding each step can help you appreciate the value of this service and ensure your car gets the best care possible. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on what happens during a professional oil change service.

Why an Oil Change Matters

Oil lubricates your engine’s moving parts, reduces friction, helps keep the engine cool, and prevents wear and tear. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes contaminated, making it less effective. That’s why regular oil changes are crucial to maintain engine health and performance.

Step 1: Vehicle Inspection and Preparation

When you arrive at the service center, a technician will typically start by inspecting your vehicle. They may check fluid levels, tire condition, and look for any visible leaks or issues. This helps catch potential problems early.

Once your car is prepped, it’s driven onto a service lift or positioned so the technician can easily access the oil drain plug underneath.

Step 2: Draining the Old Oil

The technician locates the oil drain plug under the vehicle and carefully removes it. This allows the old, used oil to drain out completely into a collection pan. Draining the old oil removes the dirty, contaminated fluid from your engine, making way for fresh oil.

Step 3: Removing and Replacing the Oil Filter

After the old oil drains, the next step is to remove the oil filter. The filter traps dirt and debris from the oil, so replacing it is crucial for protecting your engine.

The technician removes the old filter and replaces it with a new one designed specifically for your vehicle. The new filter ensures that the fresh oil stays clean longer.

Step 4: Adding New Oil

With the old oil drained and the filter replaced, the technician then adds the correct type and amount of fresh oil to your engine. They use oil that meets your vehicle manufacturer’s specifications — whether conventional, synthetic, or a blend.

After filling, they check the oil level using the dipstick to ensure it’s just right — not too little and not too much.

Why Trusting a Professional Oil Change Matters

While DIY oil changes might seem simple, professionals have the training, tools, and knowledge to do the job thoroughly and safely. They use quality oil and filters, properly dispose of used oil, and can spot other potential vehicle issues during the process.

Final Thoughts

A professional oil change service is more than just draining old oil and adding new. It’s a careful, multi-step process designed to protect your engine and extend your vehicle’s life. Next time you visit your mechanic for an oil change, you’ll know exactly what’s happening under the hood!