Your Guide To A DIY Toyota Corolla Oil Change

By Certified Master Techs in Auto Repair Information

Every five thousand miles or so comes the time to change your oil. And if you’re someone that likes to do things yourself you may be thinking about what it takes to perform an oil change. It’s not really a tedious process and it shouldn’t take much time with the right tools and tips in your pocket.

Changing the oil in your car can be as simple as purchasing the oil instead of waiting in line at the dealer or mechanic. You’ll need a few simple tools and a little bit of patience but in the end, you’ll feel so accomplished! And your car will be running great, too.

If you’re ready for an oil change, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’re discussing how to perform a Toyota Corolla oil change. Keep reading to learn more.

How to Perform a Toyota Corolla Oil Change

Be prepared to get a little dirty. Oil and grease from your car engine will inevitably get on you while you’re changing your oil so it’s a good idea to wear something you don’t care too much about.

Otherwise, there are only a few simple steps to performing a Toyota Corolla oil change. Follow these tips the next time your car needs an oil change.

Purchasing Motor Oil

The first thing you have to do is buy the correct oil for your engine. Most people run a 5W-20 in their Corollas. Many auto shops will have staff that is familiar with different makes and models so you can start there if you’re unsure. You can also call the dealer and ask which type of oil will work best for your car if you don’t know what to use.

Make sure to buy enough. You’ll probably need at least four or five quarts. You’re also going to need an oil filter and a drain pan among other tools. You can purchase most of what you need at the auto parts store.

Once you’ve got everything you need, you’re ready to head home and get started.

Get Your Tools Ready

After you get home with your oil in hand, it’s time to get your tools ready.

You’ll need:

Oil
Oil Filter
Latex Gloves
Drain Pan
Funnel
Jack or Drive Ramps
Wrench

Make sure you have everything laid out in the driveway where you’ll be working so you have easy access to things you need throughout the process.

A Toyota Corolla oil change may be easier if you also have a flat, rolling cart or at least a towel or two to lay on. You’ll need to get under the car and laying on the hard ground isn’t so comfortable while you’re working.

Once you have all your tools lined up and ready you’re ready to begin the process of actually changing out the oil.

Draining the Oil

The first thing you need to do is get the car up off the ground so you can access the oil plug.

Before pulling the car up, you’ll need to start it to get the oil at engine temperature. Get the front end up now and set the parking brake. If you’re using drive ramps it’s also a good idea to block a back tire with something sturdy like a brick.

Now you can get under the car and begin draining the oil. You’ll need to position the drain pan under the engine’s oil pan to catch the oil when you begin draining it.

Next, locate the drain plug and use your wrench to loosen it so you can drain the oil out completely. It’s important to be very careful because the oil will be extremely hot. You should also be using your latex gloves here to prevent oil from getting all over your hands.

When you’re done draining all of the oil, replace the drain plug ensuring that it’s tight, but not too tight that you can’t get it off next time.

Changing the Oil Filter

Once you drain the oil completely you can replace the oil filter. This simple step involves unscrewing the existing filter and draining any excess oil from it. You’ll need to wipe oil from the engine where you pulled the air filter out.

Add Motor Oil

You’re almost there. All you have to do now is remove the oil filler cap and add about 4 quarts of oil.

You’ll need to run the engine for a few minutes and then check the oil level with a dipstick to ensure there’s enough. If not, add oil as needed repeating the step of running the engine afterward.

Save Time & Money

Performing a Toyota Corolla oil change on your own shouldn’t take much time. You can expect to spend about a half hour to 45 minutes for the entire procedure.

You’ll also save a few bucks by eliminating the dealer or mechanic that charge by the hour plus the cost of the oil. All you’re paying for is the oil and your own time this way.

Final Thoughts

Changing the oil in your Toyota Corolla doesn’t have to be overwhelming and costly. Just follow these guidelines and you’ll be on your way to another 5,000 miles.

Frequent oil changes are essential for optimal performance from your car. Treat it right and you will be rewarded with an engine that runs great for years to come. If you’re not confident in your abilities you can always take your car to a certified Toyota dealer or mechanic.

Changing your oil yourself can save you a few hundred dollars per year depending on how much you drive.

If you have questions or need additional information, check out our Toyota Service Repair Manuals.