How To Change the Oil in Your Own Mazda

Are you approaching your Mazda’s 3,000-mile or three-month mark, signaling it’s time for an oil change? If you don’t feel like going to an express lube shop, consider changing the oil yourself. It’s cheaper than doing it at an auto shop and can be fun and fulfilling.

If you want to save time and avoid long wait times, changing your car’s oil is a simple process that you can do yourself. Although it may take longer than 30 minutes for beginners, it becomes much quicker with practice. To help you get started, here is a step-by-step guide on what you need and how to do it. You’ll save money and feel a sense of accomplishment by completing the job yourself.

What You’ll Need for a Mazda Oil Change

First, check your owners manual for your vehicle’s specific engine oil type. If you need more clarification, contact your local Mazda dealer for guidance on getting the right genuine Mazda premium oil for your car. Then, visit an auto parts store to stock up on the following tools and materials:

• Oil filter wrench.
• Oil drain plug remover.
• Drain pan.
• Replacement drain plug washer that meets your Mazda’s requirements.
• New oil filter.
• Basic screwdriver or socket wrench set.
• Genuine Mazda premium oil.
• Funnel.
• Latex gloves.
• Paper towels.
• Car jack and jack stands.

How To Change Your Mazda’s Oil: A Step-By-Step Guide

Follow each step of this guide to get the job done. Be sure to consult your car manual for additional tips.

Step One: Jack Up Your Mazda and Find the Engine’s Underside

Completing an oil change requires you to work above and below your vehicle, so you’ll need to use a car jack to lift the Mazda. Put on latex gloves to protect your hands. Set the jack under the vehicle at appropriate jack points, typically on the car frame behind the front wheels and in front of the rear wheels. Lift the car high enough for you to move around underneath it comfortably. Use jack stands to support the vehicle and hold it in place while you work to ensure your safety.

Inspect the area to find access to the underside of the engine. If there’s a plastic undertray, use a screwdriver or socket wrench to remove the screws or bolts before removing the cover. Take a moment to make sure there are no oil leaks. If you find one, having a professional service technician conduct the oil change may be best.

Step Two: Prepare Your Area and Unplug the Drain Plug

Position the oil drain pan under the reservoir to prepare your work area. Ensure the drain pan is aligned to catch all the used oil that will flow out, which could be around a gallon or more. When you’re ready to drain, use the oil drain plug remover to unplug it carefully. The oil will start to flow out immediately, so be cautious when removing the plug. Let the oil pour into the drain pan for at least five minutes or until the flow slows.

Step Three: Remove the Oil Filter

Locate the oil filter, a cylindrical-shaped tube attached to the underside’s engine. Loosen it using your hands or the oil filter wrench if it’s too tight.

Once the flow subsides, remove the filter altogether. Inspect the engine opening to ensure the old filter gasket is not left behind. If it’s still there, gently remove it so the new filter can seal properly. Use paper towels to clean up and remove leftover oil before moving on to the next step.

Step Four: Replace the Plug and Install the New Filter

Before adding new motor oil, you must replace the drain plug to prevent fluids from leaking. Check your Mazda manual to see if the drain plug washer needs replacing. If so, remove the old washer and replace it with a new one. Reattach the drain plug to the oil pan and tighten it until it’s snug. Avoid overtightening because it could damage the oil tank and drain plug.

After replacing the oil plug, install the new oil filter. Using your finger, begin by coating the rubber gasket on top of the filter with a small amount of oil, which is essential to ensure a proper seal when you tighten the filter onto the engine. Just like the drain plug, twist the filter until it’s snug, but avoid overtightening it. Once finished, reinstall the plastic undertray to cover the engine’s underside. Then, remove all tools and the drain pan from underneath your Mazda, move the jack stands, and lower your car back to level ground.

Step Five: Add New Engine Oil

Pop the vehicle’s hood open and locate the engine. Remove the oil cap to add the Mazda premium oil. Place the funnel in the opening, pour the oil, and fill it to the manufacturer’s required volume. Replace the oil cap and wait a few minutes before the next step.

Step Six: Check the Levels

To ensure the oil level is appropriate, use the dipstick. Just pull the dipstick out of its tube, wipe it clean with a paper towel, replace it, and then remove it to check if the oil aligns with the “full” mark on the tip.

If the levels are correct, replace the dipstick, turn on your vehicle, and let the engine idle. After a few minutes, check underneath the car for leaks. And there you have it. You changed your Mazda’s oil and know what to do next time. You should feel proud.

Book Your Next Auto Service at a Trusted Mazda Dealer

Did you notice any issues with your Mazda during the oil change? Bring it to our certified auto service department in Orange, California. Our expert service technicians can diagnose what’s happening in your car and take care of it in record time. We ensure quality work with genuine Mazda parts to help you keep your vehicle in top shape.

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