Home - auto - 9 Tips For Changing The Oil And Filter On Dodge Vehicles
9 tips for changing the oil and filter on Dodge vehicles

9 tips for changing the oil and filter on Dodge vehicles

Dodge is a famous automobile manufacturer with an excellent lineup of trucks and SUVs. While its vehicles are known for performance and durability, they must be maintained well. A fundamental aspect of car upkeep is changing the oil and filters regularly. Whether one owns a robust Dodge truck or a versatile SUV, understanding the nuances of oil and filter changes can help the automobile run smoothly and extend its lifespan.

The function of oil and filters in a vehicle
Engine oil is a lubricating fluid that circulates throughout the engine to reduce friction between moving parts, dissipate heat, and protect against wear and tear. The oil filter is responsible for removing impurities and contaminants from the engine oil. The filter is replaced during routine oil changes to maintain its filtration capabilities.

Tips for changing oil and filters in vehicles
Oil and filters play crucial roles in the vehicle’s engine, ensuring it operates efficiently and remains in good condition. If one follows these tips, it will not only ensure engine longevity but also contribute to better fuel efficiency and reduced emissions:

Use the right tools and materials
Before starting, it’s important to gather all the right tools. One will need an oil filter wrench to remove the old filter, a container to catch the old oil (like an oil drain pan), a set of sockets or wrenches, a funnel to pour in new oil, a new oil filter, and the right type and sufficient amount of oil. Using the right tools and materials not only simplifies the process but also ensures one performs the oil change accurately and safely.

Have safety gear handy
One should always work in a place where there’s fresh air and put on safety gear like gloves and safety glasses for protection. Gloves defend one’s hands from contact with hot oil, sharp tools, and potentially harmful chemicals, preventing burns and cuts. Safety glasses, on the other hand, shield the eyes from splashing oil and debris.

Warm up the engine
Cold engine oil is thicker and flows less freely. Warming up the oil can make it easier to drain out later during the oil change. As the oil warms up, it also suspends and carries away contaminants like dirt and debris, which might have settled in the engine. To warm the oil, one can start the car and let it run for a few minutes before beginning the work.

Use the right oil and filter
A particular Dodge model and engine type may require a specific oil viscosity and formulation to function at its best. Using the right oil ensures proper lubrication and protection. Conversely, using an incorrect filter may compromise the filtration process, potentially allowing harmful particles to circulate in the engine. One can find detailed information on the recommended oil type, viscosity, and filter specifications in the owner’s manual. One can also find this information on labels and product descriptions.

Lift the vehicle
One might need to lift the car off the ground a bit to reach the oil drain plug and filter. Individuals can do this with a car jack and jack stands, but one should ensure the vehicle is stable and safe before going underneath it.

Lubricate the new filter
Before putting on the new oil filter, one is advised to rub a little bit of clean oil onto the rubber ring around the top of the filter. This helps seal it properly, prevents leaks, and enables easy removal during the next oil change. One can screw on the new oil filter by hand.

Use a drain pan
The oil drain plug is like a little bolt, usually at the engine’s very bottom. Once the plug is loosened, remove it completely and let the old oil pour into the pan. Ensure the pan is in the right spot to catch all the oil. Using a drain pan prevents the oil from spilling onto the ground. This minimizes mess and cleanup and reduces the risk of environmental contamination and safety hazards.

Check the oil level and start the engine
Checking the oil level and starting the engine after an oil change is crucial to verify if the correct amount of oil has been added. It also lets the new oil to circulate throughout the engine. This ensures all engine components are properly lubricated, minimizing friction and wear and maintaining optimal engine performance and longevity. Additionally, it helps identify potential leaks or issues with the oil system before resuming regular vehicle operation.

Check for oil leaks
After changing the oil and filter, one is advised to monitor the vehicle for oil leaks in the days following the maintenance. One should address any leaks promptly by tightening the drain plug or oil filter and replacing damaged gaskets or seals. It helps prevent potential engine damage and oil loss.

How frequently should one change the oil and filters?
Changing a vehicle’s oil is a critical aspect of regular maintenance. The frequency at which one should do it depends on various factors, including the type of oil one uses, driving habits, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. On average, for many modern vehicles that use conventional oil, changing the oil every 7,000 to 10,000 miles is often recommended. However, one should ideally go by the vehicle manual, as some oil formulations may allow longer intervals between oil changes.

When it comes to oil filters, here are a few warning signs they need a change:

  • Reduced engine power and acceleration
  • Decreased fuel efficiency
  • Unusual engine noises, such as wheezing or rattling
  • Visible buildup of dirt and debris on the filter itself
  • Engine overheating due to poor cooling
  • Dark or thick engine oil
  • Maintenance light illuminated on one’s dashboard
  • Emission of dirty exhaust fumes

Latest Articles

Eczema – 3 methods to manage its symptoms
health

Eczema – 3 methods to manage its symptoms

Eczema has many different stages and types. Unfortunately, about 10.1 percent of people in the country have some or the other form of this condition. Such a disease is a combination of conditions that make the skin irritated or inflamed. With proper treatment, one can manage symptoms. Red, dry, cracked, and leathery skin are the common eczema signs. Here are three useful methods that help deal with eczema and manage its symptoms: Getting the right treatment options Here are some treatments associated with eczema. Dupixent Dupixent is prescribed for children six or older and adults; for those who cannot control symptoms with other treatment measures, alternate treatments are not recommended. This monoclonal antibody works on a targeted area in the immune system. Dupixent comes in pre-filled single-dose pens and syringes, given as a subcutaneous injection. One can find this treatment option in two strengths: 300-mg/2-mL and 200 mg/1.14-mL solutions. Cibinqo This once-daily oral treatment helps manage symptoms for adults who have not seen relief with prevailing treatment options. Cibinqo is an FDA-approved treatment for adults with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis. Doses that can be taken are either 100 or 200 mg. Alternately, a 50 mg dosage is for patients with moderate renal impairment. Upadacitinib and Eucrisa Upadacitinib is a JAK1 inhibitor and helps adolescents and adults with severe or moderate eczema. However, this FDA-approved treatment can cause side effects like fever, cough, nausea, and upper respiratory tract infections. Typically, one starts with 15 mg, but the doctor may advise a 30 mg dose if that does not work. Eucrisa is also a treatment option for eczema. It is for skin-only treatment, so do not get it in contact with sensitive areas and rinse with water in case of contact. Foods to eat and avoid Eczema needs to be managed with a disciplined nutritional regime.
5 mistakes to avoid before bed for better sleep
health

5 mistakes to avoid before bed for better sleep

Have you ever woken up feeling tired and lethargic despite sleeping for seven to eight hours at night? It could be due to poor sleep quality. Disturbed sleep influences the rest of your day: how you think, your performance at work, and other tasks. The causes of poor sleep are many, including a faulty mattress, distractions in your room, or a heavy dinner. Avoiding the following mistakes before bed can help you sleep better: Staring at a screen Using gadgets close to bedtime is probably the most common mistake in the digital age. The blue light emitted from screens affects the production of a specific hormone responsible for inducing sleep and regulating the circadian rhythm. Apart from the blue light emission, the television or mobile phone sound can be a distraction that keeps you awake. High noise levels create lots of mental stimulation and disturbance, preventing the brain from shutting down. Hence, it is advisable to avoid using phones, televisions, and laptops for at least an hour before bed. Exercising Exercise is among the best solutions for good health, but you must do it at the right time. Physical activity late in the evening or at night hampers sleep patterns by increasing stress and raising body temperature. The only exercise recommended before bedtime is light stretching and simple yoga. These help relieve muscle tension and relax the body and mind, preparing them to drift asleep. You can perform intense exercises in the morning or earlier in the evening. If you have some spare time before sleeping, use it for sitting down and reflecting on the happenings of the day instead of exercising. It will help you fall asleep faster. Making poor food choices A meal with lots of refined carbs and sugar is unsuitable for dinner as it can keep you awake at night.
Migraine – Ways to manage the condition
health

Migraine – Ways to manage the condition

Migraine headaches are a devitalizing experience. It completely saps the person of energy and prevents them from being productive during these episodes. There is usually a build-up to a migraine attack which is different for every individual. The phase before the actual migraine attack is known as the aura, and people may report seeing flashes of light or experiencing a tingling sensation. Below are some options for treating migraine headaches: Treatment options Nurtec Nurtec is a treatment option that helps relieve some symptoms of migraines. It reduces the severity of headaches and sensitivity to light. Nurtec is usually taken on alternate days to prevent migraines and other pain associated with the condition. Ubrelvy Ubrelvy, a fast pain-relief, is a treatment option that blocks calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in the body. CGRP is associated with migraine attacks, and suppressing it goes a long way in treating the condition. Excedrin This pain reliever does not just treat migraine headaches but also pain in other parts of the body. Excedrin provides fast pain relief to the patient. Qulipta Qulipta is a treatment option that helps prevent migraines over a more extended period. However, medical professionals do not recommend this treatment option to people suffering from kidney or liver problems. Qulipta works by blocking the CGRP protein. Foods to help manage migraine headaches Certain foods are part of the preventive treatment for migraines. While a preventative treatment may not completely stop migraine headaches, it will help reduce the severity and occurrence of these attacks. Bananas Bananas are rich in magnesium. According to some studies, magnesium is deficient in migraine sufferers, and the mineral stops the chemicals that cause pain. Watermelons Watermelons contain around 92% water, and it is a great way to stay hydrated. Dehydration often triggers headaches in general, which could lead to migraine attacks.