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How to Change Your Oil Yourself: A DIY Guide for Chevy Owners in Overland Park

Regular oil changes are one of the most important maintenance items for keeping your Chevrolet running smoothly. While many drivers enjoy tackling maintenance projects themselves, it's important to have the right tools, supplies, and knowledge before getting started.

If you're planning a DIY oil change, here's what you'll need and where you can find supplies around the Kansas City area.


Tools & Supplies You'll Need

Before changing your oil, gather the following:

Essential Tools

  • Socket wrench set
  • Oil filter wrench
  • Oil drain pan
  • Funnel
  • Vehicle ramps or jack stands
  • Safety gloves
  • Safety glasses
  • Shop towels or rags

Parts & Fluids

  • Manufacturer-recommended motor oil
  • New oil filter
  • Drain plug gasket (if required)
  • Owner's manual for oil specifications and capacity

Where to Buy Oil Change Supplies Near Overland Park

O'Reilly Auto Parts

Find motor oil, oil filters, funnels, drain pans, and most of the tools needed for a DIY oil change.

Website: https://www.oreillyauto.com

AutoZone

Offers oil, filters, ramps, gloves, and disposal containers.

Website: https://www.autozone.com

Advance Auto Parts

Carries a wide selection of oil change supplies and maintenance products.

Website: https://shop.advanceautoparts.com

Walmart Supercenter

Often one of the most affordable places to purchase motor oil and oil filters.

Website: https://www.walmart.com

Harbor Freight Tools

Great for purchasing drain pans, socket sets, jack stands, funnels, and other tools.

Website: https://www.harborfreight.com


Step 1: Warm Up the Engine

Allow your Chevrolet to run for a few minutes before beginning.

Warm oil drains more easily and helps remove contaminants from the engine.


Step 2: Safely Raise the Vehicle

Park on a level surface and engage the parking brake.

Use ramps or jack stands to safely support the vehicle before working underneath.

Never rely solely on a hydraulic jack.


Step 3: Drain the Old Oil

Position your drain pan beneath the oil drain plug.

  • Remove the drain plug carefully.
  • Allow the oil to drain completely.
  • Replace the drain plug gasket if necessary.
  • Reinstall and tighten the drain plug according to specifications.

Step 4: Replace the Oil Filter

Using an oil filter wrench:

  • Remove the old filter.
  • Lubricate the new filter gasket with fresh oil.
  • Install the new filter according to manufacturer recommendations.

Step 5: Add Fresh Oil

Using a funnel:

  • Add the correct amount and type of oil.
  • Reinstall the oil cap.
  • Start the engine briefly.
  • Check for leaks.
  • Verify the oil level with the dipstick.

Where Can You Dispose of Used Oil?

Many local auto parts stores accept used motor oil and filters for recycling.

Check with:

  • O'Reilly Auto Parts
  • AutoZone
  • Advance Auto Parts

Most locations offer free oil recycling services.


Why Many Chevy Owners Choose Certified Service

Changing your own oil can be rewarding, but it also requires time, tools, cleanup, and proper disposal.

At McCarthy Chevrolet Overland Park, our Certified Service technicians can perform your oil change quickly while also:

  • Inspecting your vehicle
  • Checking fluid levels
  • Monitoring tire condition
  • Looking for potential maintenance concerns
  • Using genuine GM parts and approved fluids

You already have enough on your schedule—you don't need to become an oil expert too.


Schedule Your Oil Change at McCarthy Chevrolet Overland Park

Skip the mess and let our experts handle it.

Schedule Service Online

Visit Our Service Department

View Current Service Specials


Let the Professionals Handle the Dirty Work

DIY oil changes can be a great weekend project, but if you'd rather spend your free time doing something else, the team at McCarthy Chevrolet Overland Park is ready to help.

From routine oil changes to major maintenance, we're proud to help drivers throughout Overland Park and the Kansas City area keep their Chevrolet vehicles running their best.

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