Changing the Oil in a Volkswagen Jetta

The Jetta is a popular vehicle from the Volkswagen product line. Like all vehicles, the Jetta needs routine maintenance to keep running properly. This includes the scheduled oil change. Oil changes occur at regularly set intervals, generally 3, 5, or 10 thousand miles. Regardless of when it occurs, the change should not be avoided or put off. To due so risks serious damage to the engine. The following offers DIYers that process for chaning the oil on a Jetta.

Directions

1

Determine the Type of Oil Needed

Each vehicle needs a specific type of oil and filter, These is some overlap in terms of what can be used from one vehicle to the next, but oils and filters are far from universal. Look up the exact type for both that go with the model of Jetta being given an oil change.

2

Purchase the Necessary Parts and Tools

Purchase the oil and the filter for the Jetta in question. An oil wrench will be needed as well to remove the old filter. These come in different sizes so purchase the one that goes with the oil filter. A size too small or too big will not work properly and result in wasted time. A fixed wrench or socket wrench will be need to remove the plug screw to drain the oil from the pan. A drain pan will be needed as well.

3

Lift the Car

The car will need to be raised on a lift or with a jack. If using a jack the car should then have jack stands placed under it for proper support. The jack should not be used to keep the car suspended as hydraulic jacks can lose pressure while others do not provide a solid base for the vehicle. Before lifting, be sure the emergency break is on. For added security place stops behind the vehicle tires.

4

Drain the Oil

You may need to remove a protective plate to access the oil reservoir and filter. Slide the oil pan under the vehicle. With wrench in hand, slide under the vehicle. Locate the oil reservoir. Place the drain pan under reservoir. Remove the plug screw and allow the oil to drain. The pan should be located past the engine but not quite at the midway point of the car. Replace the screw when done. Be sure it is snug.

5

Remove the Oil Filter

Once the oil has been drained completely, locate the oil filter. It will be located on the engine and pointed downward. Unscrew the bolt holding it in place and allow any oil to drain out of the filter and housing. Replace the filter and the housing.

6

Check Your Work

Before sliding out from under the vehicle, double check that everything looks secure. Everything should be back in place as it was before you began. If you removed the protective cover, replace it. Take all tools out from under the car.

7

Lower the Car

Slide the jack back under the car. Remove the jack stands one by one. Lower the car to the ground. The car is ready to have the oil filled.

8

Fill the Oil

Find the oil fill. Remove the cap and add the oil that was purchased. Five quarts is a common amount of oil to add. Some users require six. Different years and engine sizes will require different amounts of oil. Check the owners manual for specifics.

9

Allow the Oil to Circulate

The oli will need to circulate before the oil is checked. To do this start the car and allow it to run. A short drive is ideal. Once the oil has circulated, check the oil. Add as needed.

10

Maintain Oil Levels

Between oil changes it is important to maintain appropriate oil levels. Check your oil regularly to make that the oil level is steady. Add as needed.

An oil change is a simple process. However, it is vitally important. This a basic overview of the oil change for a Jetta. Due t changes made across model years, the process may vary, albeit slightly. Whenever there is doubt, refernece the owners manual or an appropriate repair manual.