DIY Oil Change Guide for a 2016 Ford Escape SE 1.6L 4-Cylinder.

Changing your oil is a fundamental aspect of vehicle maintenance, and doing it yourself can save you both time and money. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.

Tools and Materials Required

• New oil filter
• New engine oil (as per manufacturer's recommendation)
• Oil drain pan
• Wrench set (including the appropriate socket for the drain plug)
• Jack and jack stands
• Funnel
• Cloth or paper towels for cleanup
• Oil filter wrench (if necessary)
• Oil filter gasket (if necessary)

Ensure you have the correct filter and oil by cross-referencing with your vehicle's manual or consulting a professional.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Vehicle

• Park on a level surface and engage the parking brake.

2. Lift the Vehicle

• Place the jack under the front center of the vehicle and lift the car. Secure it on jack stands for safety.

3. Drain the Old Oil

• Locate the oil drain plug underneath the engine and position the oil pan directly underneath it.
• Using the appropriate-sized wrench, loosen the oil drain plug and carefully remove it. Allow the old oil to drain completely into the pan.

4. Remove the Old Oil Filter

• While the oil is draining, locate the oil filter, typically on the side of the engine. Place the oil pan under the filter to catch any additional oil.
• Unscrew the old oil filter with your hand or an oil filter wrench. Be cautious as the filter may still contain hot oil.

5. Install the New Oil Filter

• Before installing the new oil filter, lubricate the gasket on the new filter with a bit of fresh oil. This will ensure a proper seal and make it easier to remove during the next oil change.
• Screw on the new oil filter by hand, tightening it to the manufacturer's recommended torque. Do not over-tighten.

6. Reinstall the Oil Drain Plug

• Wipe the area clean and reinstall the oil drain plug, tightening it to the manufacturer's specifications.

7. Lower the Vehicle

• Lower the vehicle from the jack stands and remove the jack.

8. Add New Oil

• Using a funnel, pour in the appropriate amount of new oil for a 1.6L 4-cylinder engine. Refer to your owner's manual for the correct oil type and capacity.

9. Check for Leaks and Oil Level

• Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new oil. Check for any leaks around the oil filter and drain plug.
• Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes. Check the oil level using the dipstick and add more oil as needed to reach the proper level.

10. Dispose of Old Oil and Filter

• Dispose of the old oil and filter responsibly at a local recycling center.

11. Record the Oil Change

• Record the oil change details, such as the date and mileage, for future reference.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using Incorrect Oil/Filter: Always use the recommended oil type and oil filter for your vehicle.
• Over-tightening/Under-tightening: Ensure the oil filter and drain plug are tightened to the manufacturer's specifications to avoid leaks.
• Improper Disposal: Used oil and filters should be disposed of at certified recycling centers.
• Incorrect Oil Level: Adding too much or too little oil can lead to engine damage or poor performance.
• Ignoring Leaks: Always double-check for leaks after completing the oil change.
• Reusing Old Gaskets/O-rings: Use new gaskets and O-rings to prevent leaks and ensure proper sealing.
• Vehicle Stability: Make sure the vehicle is securely placed on jack stands to avoid safety hazards.
• Resetting Indicators: Don’t forget to reset the oil change indicator light and follow recommended oil change intervals.