Like all good things in life.. Take your time and do it right.

 

We have 6 cars/minivans/SUVs in the family and the HHR is far and away the easiest to change the oil and filter on. The filter location makes any setup where the filter is underneath seem so archaic.

Steve

 

It IS a nice location and easy enough to do. My ONLY recommendation on this, is, park it and let it cool, where you want to change the oil, otherwise you might just burn your hands if it doesn't want to come right off. heh

 

I research things to death before I do anything because I don't want to get in over my head and cause any unnecessary problems. That is one of the reasons I love this site. So much info and help from everybody.

 

Does anyone here use an oil extractor? I've been using one for the last 4 years or so and you can't beat them. There are a couple of different types but the one I have you pressurize it with your air compressor. You never have to pull the drain plug and if you filter is on top, you never have to get underneath the car. I was skeptical of them at first but as long as you insert the probe properly, the oil drains completely. Many of the dealerships use them.

 

I have never used one.

I know they were a use by a lot of boater for its easy of draining the oil.

I assume that it's a tube that go's down the dip stick tube?

 

Yes, the probe goes down the dipstick tube until you feel it hit bottom the you open the valve and watch the gauge until it reaches the vehicles capacity. Very easy to use.

 

At least you remembered to replace the drain plug. Don't ask. It was only 3 qts.

 

are you talking about a "hand pump"?
I am not sure I've seen this.

and I always check the oil level, and check for leaks after a "professional" oil change.

 

I thought you got more oil out when it was at operating temp..+ sludge build up. Am I missing something??