Changing oil/filter - how?

[jtmann]

Hello,

Interested to get comments from the forum re: the level of difficulty of changing oil/filter for my 2007 Camry. My local shop can do it but I'm interest in doing on my own and shifting to synthetic/high mileage oil.

My specific questions are:
1. Could I drain the old oil effectively using a siphon (I use one to drain old oil/gas out of snowblower, lawnmower, etc and wondering is same would work effectively to drian old oil from the Camry)? I don't have access to nor want to go the jack/hoist route

2. How difficult to change the filter/what special tools required if any?

Thanks

[deadrx7conv]

What engine?

[gator1939]

IMHO

Since you don't want to invest in jackstands (or a good jack) I would use you local mechanic. The siphon method will work if the tube can get down the dipstick tube but will not be effective. You can't get to the oil filter without jacking the car up and putting it on jackstands. Doing your own work on a car requires some investment in the proper tools and equipment.

gator1939

[Donald E. George]

Have your PM work done at a reliable independent shop with ASE certified mechanics. Stay away from the franchise quick service chains. Use the internet to learn what is involved with maintaining your vehicle. Regards

[Zembonez]

I recommend NOT using a siphon. Any sludge or residue in the bottom of the pan will not be removed using this method. The only way to effectively flush this out is by removing the drain plug in the pan. Not a big deal since you are going to be under the car changing a filter anyway.

[bandit]

You can get a jack or even ramps for cheap.

As for what tools, please search the forums for the tool to remove the oil filter. I believe its TOY 640. There are other brands that is similar.

[deadrx7conv]

Depending on oil pan type and drain plug location, an oil siphon could possible get out MORE OF THE OIL AND CRUD. I tend to use mityvacs when possible. To test an oil siphon, drain all the oil out of an engine and then try to see what you can vacuum through the dipstick. Most cars have poorly located drain plugs that don't allow all the oil to drain out, and poorly design oil pans that puddle oil that won't drain from the plug hole.

[leakyseals]

Regardless of the methods, switching to synthetic from dino without replacing the cartridge filter is asking for trouble. Replacing a cartridge is no big deal once you get used to it. With a set of $30 Rhino Ramps

[JohnGD]

Get an oil filter cap for ratchet/extension. Some members have used a larger sized filter like the Motorcraft FL400s and it becomes easier to access.

In Toronto winters a Mobil-1 0W-xx should work. I wonder if anyone's used their 0W-40 Euro formula in these engines.