Did you know that changing your oil regularly can help your car last longer? It’s true! That thick, black stuff that builds up in your engine works hard to keep everything running smoothly, but over time it gets dirty and won’t do its job properly. If you’ve got a 2013 Honda Pilot, you’re in luck! Not only is it a reliable vehicle, but changing its oil isn’t too tough. Let’s dive into how to keep your car happy!
Back in the day, changing oil was something only mechanics knew how to do. But as cars got more complicated, drivers realized that they could save time and money by doing it themselves. Now, with lots of online videos and tips, even kids can learn how! Changing oil is super important today because many folks drive a lot and need their cars to run without hiccups. Keeping your Honda Pilot well maintained means it can take you on all sorts of adventures without letting you down.
Funny enough, many people think you need fancy tools to change oil. But let me tell ya, you don’t! All you need is a wrench, a funnel, and some oil. And get this—did you know that on average, an oil change can cost around $40 at a shop? While that seems like a steal, when you do it at home, you can save a few bucks for ice cream or video games!
Here’s the scoop: you’ll want to start by gathering up your supplies. Grab your new oil filter and the right oil for your engine. For the 2013 Honda Pilot, it usually takes about 5 quarts of oil, so make sure to check the label! After you’ve got everything you need, make sure the car is parked on level ground. This way, it won’t spill everywhere, and you won’t end up wearing oil like a new jacket.
Next, you’ll want to warm up the engine just a bit. It shouldn’t be blazing hot, but warm oil flows much better. So go ahead, start the engine for a few minutes, then turn it off. Now, when you pop the hood, make sure to wear some gloves—you don’t want oil on your hands! Find the drain plug underneath the car; it’s usually at the bottom of the oil pan. Use your wrench to loosen it, but be careful! Some oil will spill out, so aim it into your bucket.
Once the old oil is out, it’s time to switch the oil filter. This little part makes a big difference and helps keep your engine clean. Just unscrew the old filter, but don’t forget to put some oil on the rubber ring of the new one before you screw it in! That helps it seal better. Then, put the drain plug back and make sure it’s nice and tight.
Alright, now comes the best part! Use your funnel to pour the new oil into the engine. Do it slowly to avoid any mess. After you’ve added the oil, wait a minute and then check the level with the dipstick. Just pull it out, wipe it clean, and stick it back in. Then, take it out again to see if you’ve got enough oil in there. If it’s low, just add a bit more until it’s in the safe zone.
Finally, give the engine a quick start and let it run for a minute. This way, the new oil can circulate through the engine, and you’ll want to keep an eye out for any weird sounds or leaks. If everything’s running smoothly, pat yourself on the back! You just took care of your Honda Pilot like a pro.
Gather Your Supplies
Before diving into the oil change, you’ll need to gather some supplies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 5 quarts of new oil (check your owner’s manual for the right type)
- New oil filter
- Oil catch pan
- Wrench or socket set
- Funnel
- Shop towels
- Gloves
Prepare Your Honda Pilot
Alright, let’s get started! First things first, find a flat space to park your 2013 Honda Pilot. It’s best to turn off the engine and let it cool down for about 30 minutes. Trust me; you don’t want to burn your hands on hot parts!
Locate the Oil Drain Plug
Once it’s cool, pop the hood and locate the oil dipstick. To change the oil, you’ll need to find the oil drain plug. It’s usually at the bottom of the oil pan, and it’s got a big, round bolt that looks kinda shiny. Remember to slide the oil catch pan underneath, so you don’t make a mess.
Drain the Old Oil
Using your wrench, gently twist the drain plug counterclockwise. When it’s loose, pull it out and watch the old oil drain into the pan. Be careful—hot oil can splash!
Let that drain for a few minutes while you move on to the next steps.
Change the Oil Filter
Next, you’ll be swapping out the oil filter. Find it on the engine; it looks like a big metal can. Wearing your gloves, twist it off by hand or use an oil filter wrench if it’s stuck. That old filter might have some oil in it, so keep your catch pan ready!
Before putting the new one on, dab a little new oil on the rubber gasket of the new filter. This helps it seal better. Then, screw on the new filter. Hand-tight is usually just fine; no need to go Hulk on it!
Replace the Drain Plug
Now that all the old oil has drained, pop the drain plug back in. Tighten it by turning it clockwise until it’s snug. Don’t overdo it, or you might strip the threads!
Add New Oil
Almost done! Grab your funnel and pour in the new oil through the dipstick tube. Just like before, your owner’s manual can tell you exactly how much to add. You’re aiming for about 5 quarts. Make sure to keep an eye on that dipstick as you pour!
Check Oil Level
After you’ve added oil, wait a minute, then pull out the dipstick to check the oil level. Wipe it with a towel, stick it back in, and then pull it out again. It should be between the “low” and “full” marks. If it’s too low, add a little more until it looks good.
Start It Up
Now it’s time for the moment of truth! Start your engine and let it run for a minute or two. This lets the new oil circulate. While it’s running, check under the car to see if there are any leaks. If all looks good, you’re a champ!
Dispose of Old Oil Properly
Don’t just dump that old oil down the drain! Most places have recycling centers where you can drop it off. It’s important to keep our environment safe!
Did you know that changing your oil regularly can increase your engine’s life by tons? It’s a simple task that can really pay off in the long run!
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How to Change Oil on a 2013 Honda Pilot FAQ
What type of oil do I need for a 2013 Honda Pilot?
You should use 5W-20 viscosity oil. It’s important to check the bottle to make sure it says it meets Honda’s specifications!
How often should I change the oil?
Typically, you should change the oil every 7,500 miles or at least once a year. But if you drive in heavy traffic or very hot or cold places, do it more often!
Do I need special tools to change the oil?
Not really! You just need a wrench, an oil filter wrench, a funnel, and a pan to catch the old oil. Easy peasy!
Can I change my oil if I’ve never done it before?
Absolutely! Changing oil is a great way to learn about your car. Just follow the steps carefully, and you’ll do just fine.
Will I get dirty while changing the oil?
Maybe a little! It’s best to wear old clothes and use gloves if you have them. A bit of oil can get messy, but that’s part of the fun!
What should I do with the old oil?
You shouldn’t throw it in the trash or down the drain. Take it to a recycling center or a place that disposes of oil properly!
How can I tell when I need to change the oil?
Check the oil dipstick! If the oil looks dark and thick, or you see metal shavings, it’s time for a change. You can also follow the mileage guidelines!
Do I need to change the oil filter every time?
Yes! It’s a good idea to change the oil filter every time you do an oil change. That helps keep your engine clean!
What happens if I forget to change the oil?
Your engine could get damaged over time, which means expensive repairs. So try not to forget it! Set a reminder if you need to!
Can I use synthetic oil instead of regular oil?
Sure thing! Synthetic oil is fine for your Honda Pilot. It can even protect your engine better, but it usually costs more. Just check the label!
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Conclusion
Changing the oil in your 2013 Honda Pilot isn’t too hard if you follow the right steps. First, you’ll want to gather your tools and supplies, like the right oil and an oil filter. Make sure the engine is cool before you start – safety first! After that, lift up the vehicle carefully using jack stands to get under it. Then, you can drain the old oil by opening the drain plug, and don’t forget to replace the oil filter too. Once everything’s all drained, you’ll put the drain plug back on tight and fill in the new oil.
Finally, don’t skip checking the oil level after you pour in the new stuff. Use the dipstick to make sure it’s just right! It’s a good idea to start the engine for a few minutes and listen for any strange sounds, just to make sure everything’s running smoothly. Clean up any mess you made and take the old oil to a recycling center. With these simple steps, you’ll keep your engine happy and running well. Changing oil might seem tricky at first, but you’ll get the hang of it! Just remember, a little practice goes a long way.