Changing your own oil can be a rewarding weekend project and a great way to learn more about your Chevrolet. While many drivers prefer the convenience of Certified Service, some enjoy handling routine maintenance themselves.
If you’re planning a DIY oil change, here’s what you’ll need, where to find supplies around Lee’s Summit and the Kansas City area, and when it may be worth letting the professionals handle the job.
Tools & Supplies You’ll Need
Before you begin, 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 capacity and specifications
Always verify the correct oil type and capacity for your specific Chevrolet model before starting.
Where to Buy Oil Change Supplies Near Lee’s Summit
O’Reilly Auto Parts
A great source for oil, oil filters, drain pans, funnels, and DIY maintenance tools.
AutoZone
Find motor oil, filters, gloves, ramps, and other essential supplies.
Advance Auto Parts
Offers a wide selection of maintenance products and oil change equipment.
👉 https://shop.advanceautoparts.com
Walmart Supercenter
Often one of the most affordable places to purchase motor oil and filters.
Harbor Freight Tools
Perfect for jack stands, ramps, socket sets, oil drain pans, and garage equipment.
👉 https://www.harborfreight.com
Step 1: Warm the Engine
Run your Chevrolet for a few minutes before beginning.
Warm oil drains faster and can help carry away contaminants that may be suspended in the oil.
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
Place your drain pan beneath the oil drain plug.
- Remove the drain plug carefully.
- Allow the oil to drain completely.
- Inspect the drain plug and gasket.
- Reinstall and tighten according to specifications.
Step 4: Replace the Oil Filter
Using an oil filter wrench:
- Remove the old filter.
- Apply a small amount of fresh oil to the gasket of the new filter.
- Install the new filter according to manufacturer recommendations.
Step 5: Add Fresh Oil
Using a funnel:
- Add the correct amount of oil.
- Reinstall the oil cap.
- Start the engine briefly.
- Check for leaks.
- Verify the oil level with the dipstick.
Properly Dispose of Used Oil
Never pour used oil down a drain, onto the ground, or into household trash.
Many auto parts stores accept used oil and oil filters for recycling, including:
- O’Reilly Auto Parts
- AutoZone
- Advance Auto Parts
Contact your local store for recycling details before visiting.
Why Many Chevy Owners Choose Certified Service
Changing your own oil can save money, but it also requires time, tools, cleanup, and proper disposal.
At McCarthy Chevrolet Lee’s Summit, our Chevrolet Certified Service technicians can perform your oil change quickly while also:
- Performing a multi-point inspection
- Checking tire pressure and tread
- Inspecting fluid levels
- Looking for potential maintenance concerns
- Using genuine GM parts and approved fluids
You already have enough to do—you don’t need to become an oil expert too.
Schedule Your Oil Change at McCarthy Chevrolet Lee’s Summit
If you’d rather skip the mess and let the professionals handle it, we’re here to help.
Schedule Service Online
Visit Our Service Center
View Current Service Specials
Keep Your Chevrolet Running Its Best
Whether you’re performing maintenance in your driveway or trusting the experts, regular oil changes are one of the most important services you can do for your vehicle.
For drivers throughout Lee’s Summit, Independence, Blue Springs, Grain Valley, and the Kansas City area, McCarthy Chevrolet Lee’s Summit is here to help with all your maintenance and service needs.
