Revolutionize Your Ride: How To Change Honda Odyssey Oil Like A Pro

Quick summary

While you can always take your car to a mechanic, changing the oil yourself can save you money and give you a sense of accomplishment.
Once the drain plug is loose, remove it completely and allow the old oil to drain into the pan.
Use your fingers to apply a thin coat of new engine oil to the gasket of the new oil filter.

Keeping your Honda Odyssey running smoothly requires regular maintenance, and changing the engine oil is one of the most important tasks. While you can always take your car to a mechanic, changing the oil yourself can save you money and give you a sense of accomplishment. This guide will walk you through the process of how to change Honda Odyssey oil step-by-step, making it easy for even novice DIYers.

Gather Your Supplies

Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary tools and supplies:

New engine oil: Check your owner’s manual for the recommended type and viscosity of oil for your Honda Odyssey.
Oil filter: Again, consult your owner’s manual for the correct oil filter for your vehicle.
Oil drain pan: This will catch the old oil as you drain it.
Wrench or socket: You’ll need a wrench or socket that fits the oil drain plug.
Filter wrench: This tool is used to remove the old oil filter.
Gloves: Protect your hands from dirty oil.
Rag or shop towels: To clean up spills and wipe surfaces.
Funnel: To pour the new oil into the engine.
Optional: Oil catch can or container to safely store the used oil for proper disposal.

Prepare Your Work Area

Choose a level and safe area to work on your Honda Odyssey. A driveway or garage is ideal. Make sure the area is well-lit and free of obstacles.

Warm Up the Engine

Before you begin the oil change, start your Honda Odyssey and let the engine run for a few minutes. This will help the oil thin out and flow more easily when you drain it.

Locate the Oil Drain Plug

Underneath your Honda Odyssey, you’ll find the oil drain plug located at the bottom of the oil pan. It’s usually a square or hexagonal-shaped plug with a bolt-like shape.

Drain the Old Oil

1. Position the drain pan: Place the oil drain pan directly underneath the oil drain plug.
2. Loosen the drain plug: Use your wrench or socket to loosen the drain plug. Be careful not to overtighten it when you replace it.
3. Remove the drain plug: Once the drain plug is loose, remove it completely and allow the old oil to drain into the pan.
4. Replace the drain plug: Once the oil has stopped draining, replace the drain plug and tighten it securely.

Remove the Oil Filter

1. Locate the oil filter: The oil filter is usually located near the engine block, on the side or top.
2. Loosen the filter: Use your filter wrench to loosen the oil filter. Turn it counterclockwise.
3. Remove the filter: Once the filter is loose, remove it by hand. Be careful, as it may be hot.
4. Clean the filter housing: Use a rag or shop towel to clean any oil residue around the filter housing.

Install the New Oil Filter

1. Apply new oil to the filter gasket: Use your fingers to apply a thin coat of new engine oil to the gasket of the new oil filter. This will help ensure a good seal and prevent leaks.
2. Install the new filter: Hand-tighten the new oil filter into the filter housing. Do not overtighten it.

Add New Engine Oil

1. Open the oil filler cap: Locate the oil filler cap on the top of the engine. It’s usually marked with a symbol of an oil can.
2. Pour in the new oil: Use your funnel to pour the recommended amount of new engine oil into the engine. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact amount.
3. Check the oil level: After adding the new oil, check the oil level using the dipstick. It should be between the “full” and “low” marks.

Start the Engine and Check for Leaks

1. Start the engine: Allow the engine to run for a few minutes.
2. Check for leaks: While the engine is running, check for any oil leaks around the drain plug and oil filter. If you see any leaks, tighten the drain plug or filter as needed.

Dispose of Used Oil and Supplies

Dispose of the old oil and oil filter properly. Never pour used oil down the drain or into the trash. Check with your local recycling center or automotive parts store for proper disposal options.

Final Touches and Maintenance Tips

Reset the oil change reminder: Some Honda Odysseys have a digital oil change reminder. Refer to your owner’s manual to learn how to reset it.
Record the oil change: Keep a record of your oil change date and mileage. This will help you remember when to schedule your next oil change.

Beyond the Basics: Additional Maintenance

While a regular oil change is crucial, it’s just one part of maintaining your Honda Odyssey. Here are some additional maintenance tips:

Air filter: Replace the air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles.
Spark plugs: Replace the spark plugs every 30,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on the type of spark plugs used.
Transmission fluid: Check and replace the transmission fluid as recommended in your owner’s manual.
Brake fluid: Check and replace the brake fluid every two years or as recommended in your owner’s manual.
Coolant: Check and replace the coolant every two years or as recommended in your owner’s manual.

Keeping Your Honda Odyssey Running Strong

By following these steps and maintaining a regular maintenance schedule, you can keep your Honda Odyssey running smoothly and reliably for years to come.

Revolutionize Your Ride: How to Change Honda Odyssey Oil Like a Pro