THE TUNE UP

A Do It Yourself oil change: Not as difficult as you would think.

1. Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature.


2. On most cars, you will have to raise the front of the vehicle and support it safely using a suitable pair of jackstands. Jack stands are inexpensive and are available at Diy Auto Parts. Contact one of our auto parts professionals at 1-800-593-1443 for information and pricing. Alternately, you can use a pair of ramps just be sure to check for adequate clearance between the ramp and any bodywork on the front of the vehicle. Always block the rear wheels and apply your emergency brake. On many trucks and Sport Utility Vehicles (SUV's), you may have access without raising your vehicle. The oil will often drain more effectively if the vehicle is level.


3. Locate the drain plug on the bottom of the oil pan. Slide a drain pan of a suitable capacity under the oil pan. Wipe the drain plug and surrounding area clean using an old rag.


4. Loosen the drain plug using a ratchet, short extension and socket or a box-wrench. Turn the plug out by hand, using a rag to shield your fingers from the hot oil. By keeping an inward pressure on the plug as you unscrew it, oil won't escape past the threads and you can remove it without being burned by hot oil.


5. Quickly withdraw the plug and move your hands out of the way. Allow the oil to drain completely into the pan, then install and carefully tighten the drain plug. Be careful not to over tighten the drain plug, otherwise you'll be buying a new pan or a replacement plug for stripped threads.
   
   NOTE: If the drain plug is equipped with a removable washer or gasket, check its condition and replace, if necessary, to provide a leak-proof seal.


6. Move the drain pan under the oil filter. With spin-on filters, use a strap-type or cap-type filter wrench to loosen and remove the oil filter from the engine block.. Keep in mind that it's holding about one quart of hot, dirty oil. On cartridge filters, open the filter housing using an appropriate wrench for access to the filter element.
   
   WARNING:
   On cartridge type oil filters, pay close attention to any gaskets or O-rings that seal the cover to the housing. They must be in good shape and proper position during assembly or leaks will occur.


7. Empty the old filter into the drain pan and properly dispose of the filter.
   
   NOTE: Some vehicles use cartridge type filters which are actually installed into the bottom of the oil pan.


8. Check that the gasket came off with the filter or cartridge housing. Using a clean rag, wipe off the filter adapter on the engine block. Be sure that the rag doesn't leave any lint which could clog an oil passage or cause a leak.


9. Coat the rubber gasket on the filter with fresh oil, then spin it onto the engine by hand. When the gasket touches the adapter surface, give it another 1/2 - 3/4 turn (but no more, or you'll squash the gasket and it may leak).


10. Refill the engine with the correct amount of fresh oil. Please refer to your owners manual for the correct capacity. Fill the engine slowly, checking the level often.


11. Check the oil level on the dipstick, before the engine is run (and the filter is filled with oil). It is normal for the level to be a slightly above the full mark before starting the vehicle. Start the engine and allow it to idle for a few minutes. Check for leaks at the filter and the drain plug. Then turn your engine off, wait 2 or 3 minutes and recheck your oil level. The oil level should be at the full mark.


12. Once your done changing your oil, this is a good time to check the other fluid levels in your car such as anti-freeze, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, washer fluid and brake fluid. You can also check all of your vehicles exterior lighting and last but not least check your tire pressure. Your owners manual has helpful information on fluid types and specifications and other periodic checks that may be necessary for your car.

General Motors introduces the new 2009 Chevy Camaro.

Is your car ready for the cold days of winter?

1. Check the engine oil and change it before winter begins, using a thinner grade of oil, such as SAE 5W-30 or SAE 10W-30, in extremely cold weather. Thinner oil allows the starter to rotate the engine faster, while consuming less battery power.


2. Have your battery tested for power because most batteries don't recharge as quickly in cold temperatures. Check and, if necessary, clean corrosion from connections and restore water levels.


3. Check the car's ignition system thoroughly, and if necessary, install new spark plugs. Also, clean or replace spark plug wires to restore peak starts.


4. Proper anti-freeze solution, usually a 50 to 50 antifreeze to water mix is crucial and will ensure protection to 35 degrees below zero. When checking the antifreeze, inspect the cooling system and hoses for any leaks or brittle parts.


5. Don't overlook the lights. Check headlights and tail lights for alignment and brightness. Make sure the brake and hazard lights work properly. Many of todays headlamp are plastic. These plastic headlamps fade and haze over with age, this greatly reduces the intensity of your headlamps. When this happens your headlamps should be replaced. DIY Auto Parts carries inexpensive replacement headlamp assemblies for most vehicles at reasonable prices. If you would like a price on replacement headlamps call our toll free number at 1-800-593-1443. We will be happy to help.


6. To ensure better vision, replace worn windshield wipers and make sure the car's windshield wiper fluid system is full and in proper working order.


7. Don't overlook the owner's manual for car maintenance suggestions. All manuals provide sections for proper car care and most contain "troubleshooter" charts to give owners tips on handling common mishaps.


8. Check your tire pressure regularly, at least once every two weeks. Incorrect tire pressure can lead to unsafe road-handling, especially in the snow.


9. Try to keep you car clean. Wash the car once a week to protect it from salt and dirt buildup which causes rust, corrosion and paint damage.


10. Remove ice and snow from shoes before entering your car to avoid the risk of slippery pedals.