How to Change the Oil and Oil Filter on a 2015 Honda Civic

Additional Tips and Safety Notes Before You Start

1. Why Change Your Oil Regularly?
   • Regular oil changes keep your engine running smoothly by removing contaminants, reducing engine wear, and improving fuel efficiency. For a 2015 Honda Civic, aim to change the oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every 6 months, whichever comes first.
2. Choosing the Right Oil
   • For a 2015 Honda Civic, 0W-20 synthetic oil is recommended. Using the correct oil type helps maintain engine performance and protects it from extreme temperatures.
3. Check the Drain Plug Washer
   • Honda vehicles have a small washer on the drain plug. This washer helps prevent oil leaks, so it’s a good idea to replace it whenever you change your oil. Many oil change kits include a new washer, or you can buy one at an auto parts store.
4. Warm Up the Engine First
   • Before starting, run your car for 5-10 minutes. This warms up the oil, making it easier to drain. Be cautious, though—warm oil can flow more quickly, but it can also be hot. Wear gloves to protect your hands.
5. Double-Check for Oil Leaks
   • After changing the oil, check under the car over the next few days to ensure there are no drips or leaks. Small leaks can become big problems if ignored, so keep an eye out and tighten the filter or plug if necessary.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

• Can’t Loosen the Drain Plug?
  • If the drain plug is too tight, use a larger wrench or a breaker bar to get more leverage. Make sure you’re turning it counterclockwise to loosen it.
• Oil Filter Too Tight?
  • If the old filter is stuck, you may need an oil filter wrench to loosen it. If you don’t have one, try gripping it with a rubber glove for better traction.
• Oil Light Stays On
  • After the oil change, if your oil light is still on, make sure you’ve added enough oil and check the dipstick again. If it’s still on, it could indicate an issue with the oil pressure sensor or the oil pump, so have it checked by a professional.

What You’ll Need

1. New oil filter – Check your manual or ask an auto parts store for the right one. Most Car part places can search the right one for you.
2. Oil – Use OW-20 synthetic oil, which is recommended for a 2015 Honda Civic.
3. Tools – A wrench, a drain pan for catching old oil, and a funnel for pouring new oil.
4. Safety gear – Gloves and goggles to keep clean and safe.
5. Car jack and stands or ramps – To lift the car if you can’t reach the oil pan comfortably.

Step-By-Step Guide

1. Get Your Car Ready
   • Park your car on a flat, safe surface and turn off the engine.
   • Engage the parking brake.
   • Raise the front of the car using a jack and place it on stands, or use ramps to lift the front.
2. Find the Oil Plug and Filter
   • Under the car, you’ll find a small metal “plug” (called the drain plug) at the bottom of the engine. That’s where the oil drains from.
   • Look around the same area, and you’ll find a cylinder-shaped oil filter (usually near the engine but ask for help if you can’t find it).
3. Drain the Old Oil
   • Place the drain pan under the plug to catch the old oil.
   • Use a wrench to loosen and remove the plug. Be careful – oil might come out fast!
   • Let the oil completely drain out for a few minutes.
4. Remove the Old Filter
   • Move the pan under the filter because some oil will drip out.
   • Twist off the filter with your hand (or use a filter wrench if it’s tight).
   • Tip: It may be oily, so use gloves and be gentle. Let any leftover oil drain out.
5. Put on the New Oil Filter
   • Take your new filter, and before you put it on, rub a little bit of new oil on the rubber part at the top. This makes a better seal.
   • Screw the new filter into place by hand until it’s snug (just hand-tight; don’t over-tighten).
6. Add the New Oil
   • Open the hood and unscrew the oil fill cap on top of the engine.
   • Place the funnel in the hole and slowly pour in the new oil (about 3.9 quarts for a 2015 Honda Civic, but check the manual or dipstick to be sure).
   • Replace the oil cap once done.
7. Check for Leaks and Oil Level
   • Start the engine and let it run for a minute, then turn it off.
   • Look under the car to make sure there’s no leaking oil.
   • Use the dipstick to double-check the oil level. Pull it out, wipe it clean, put it back in, and pull it out again to check. The oil should reach between the two marks on the stick.
8. Clean Up
   • Dispose of the old oil and filter properly by taking them to a recycling center or auto parts store.

FAQ for First-Timers

• Can I Change My Oil Without a Jack?
  • Yes, if you can reach the oil drain plug and filter safely. However, using a jack or ramps makes it much easier and safer, especially if your car is low to the ground.
• How Long Does It Take to Change the Oil?
  • For beginners, it can take about 45 minutes to an hour, including setup and cleanup. With practice, you can do it in 20–30 minutes.
• Is It Okay to Mix Different Brands of Oil?
  • Ideally, stick with one brand and type of oil (synthetic or conventional). Mixing oils can alter the oil’s properties, though in small amounts, it won’t cause major issues.
• What If I Overfill the Oil?
  • Overfilling can harm your engine. If you’ve added too much, drain some out by loosening the drain plug a little and letting some oil flow out. Always re-check the dipstick to ensure the correct level.

Summary

Changing your oil and filter on a 2015 Honda Civic is an essential skill for car owners. Following these easy steps will keep your car running smoothly and can save you money on mechanic visits. Plus, once you’re familiar with the process, you can do it confidently in no time!

See Also:

How To Reset Oil Life On Honda Civic? Tips New 2023