My max is hitting 3k miles and I was trying to do my first oil change during this lunch break, but didn't make it. Maybe need some advise.

1. Couldn't take off the oil filter by hand. That filter must have been put on by a gorila in the factory. and I'll need to buy a filter cap and wrench for sure.

2. I didn't ramp up the car. According to some experienced members in this forum, I turned the wheel all the way to the right, removed the shield but it seems not easy to reach the drain plug in any angle, especially the plug is facing backward.

I'll buy the tools and ramp up the car tomorrow, give another shot. Any advise? Thanks!

 

1. For the filter, I bought an self-adjusting filter tool that fits to a regular 3/8 socket wrench. Got it from Pep Boys. Use it to remove the filter but not to install it. Install and tighten the filter BY HAND. Remember to put some oil in the filter rubber gasket before installing it.

2. I didn't need to ramp it. The easiest way to do it without ramps IMO is from the front of the car, even with it facing the rear of the car. Just grab the drain plug with a 14mm open wrench from the front of the vehicle. I didn't remove any of the splash guards either. I just made my way to the drain plug and filter by bending them a bit.

Hope that helps

 

Damn gorillas taking all the good union jobs.
I remember when Nissan used to provide an oil filter wrench with the trunk tool kit.
Brute force is what you need. Some strap wrenches may help.
http://www.kitchencollection.com/tem...Seen%20On%20TV

 

Thanks guys!!

I successfully did the first time oil change w/o ramping up my car yesterday morning, it was kinda messy since the oil in the filter spilt all over the ground. I'll be much carefull next time.

I got wrench set, oil filter cap, oil drain, Castro 10w-30 from pepboys and the oem filter, cooper crush ring from dealer.

 

Wouldn't it actually work better NOT to ramp the car? Wouldn't you drain more oil this way?

 

I don't think it will make a big difference, but it will give you a easier access to your drain plug if you jack up your car.

 

How about ramping up the driver side a tad bit higher then the passenger side then you should be able to get all the oil.