Hey guys! Changing the oil in your 2017 Honda Civic EX-T might seem intimidating, but trust me, it's something you can totally handle yourself. Not only will you save some cash, but you'll also get to know your car a little better. This guide will walk you through each step, so you can confidently perform your own oil change. So, grab your tools, and let's get started!

Why Change Your Oil?

Before diving into the how-to, let's chat about the why. Oil is the lifeblood of your engine. It lubricates all those moving parts, reducing friction and preventing wear and tear. Over time, oil breaks down and gets contaminated with dirt and debris. When this happens, it can't do its job effectively, leading to decreased engine performance and potentially serious damage. Regular oil changes are crucial for keeping your engine running smoothly and extending its lifespan. Think of it as giving your engine a regular spa day – it keeps everything refreshed and happy!

Using the correct oil for your 2017 Honda Civic EX-T is vital for maintaining its performance and longevity. Honda specifically recommends using a high-quality synthetic oil that meets certain specifications. Typically, you'll want to look for 0W-20 oil that meets the API SN or newer standards. This information is usually found on the oil bottle. Synthetic oil is designed to provide superior protection compared to conventional oil, especially in extreme temperatures. It also tends to last longer, which means you can go a bit further between oil changes. Always double-check your owner's manual for the exact specifications to ensure you're using the right type of oil for your specific engine. Using the wrong oil can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, increased engine wear, and potentially void your warranty. So, take a few extra minutes to confirm you have the correct oil – your engine will thank you!

Ignoring regular oil changes can lead to a cascade of problems that can seriously impact your car's performance and lifespan. When old oil becomes sludgy and filled with contaminants, it loses its ability to properly lubricate the engine's moving parts. This increased friction causes the engine to work harder, which can lead to overheating and decreased fuel efficiency. Over time, the lack of proper lubrication can cause significant wear and tear on critical engine components like pistons, bearings, and valves. Eventually, this can result in costly repairs or even complete engine failure. Moreover, dirty oil can clog oil filters and other parts of the engine, further reducing its efficiency and performance. Regular oil changes are a simple and relatively inexpensive way to prevent these issues and keep your engine running smoothly for years to come. Think of it as preventative maintenance – a little investment now can save you from major headaches and expenses down the road. So, don't skip those oil changes!

What You'll Need

Okay, let's gather our supplies. Here's what you'll need to change the oil in your 2017 Honda Civic EX-T:

• New oil (check your owner's manual for the correct type and amount – usually around 3.7 quarts of 0W-20 synthetic oil)
• New oil filter (again, check your owner's manual for the correct part number)
• Wrench for the oil filter
• Socket wrench and the correct size socket for the drain plug (usually 17mm)
• Oil drain pan
• Funnel
• Gloves (to keep your hands clean)
• Rags or paper towels (for spills)
• Jack and jack stands (for safety)

Having the right tools on hand will make the oil change process much smoother and more efficient. Make sure your tools are in good condition and the correct size for your car. Using the wrong size wrench or socket can damage the drain plug or oil filter housing. It's also a good idea to have a torque wrench to ensure you tighten the drain plug and oil filter to the correct specifications. This will prevent leaks and ensure proper sealing. Additionally, consider investing in a good quality oil filter wrench that fits your specific oil filter. Some oil filters can be difficult to remove, and a specialized wrench will make the job much easier. Finally, don't forget about safety gear like gloves and eye protection. Working with used oil can be messy, and it's important to protect your skin and eyes from potential irritants. By taking the time to gather the right tools and equipment, you'll be well-prepared to tackle your oil change with confidence.

Choosing the right oil and oil filter for your 2017 Honda Civic EX-T is crucial for maintaining optimal engine performance and longevity. Honda recommends using a specific type of synthetic oil, typically 0W-20, that meets API SN or newer standards. This information can be found in your owner's manual and on the oil bottle. Synthetic oil provides superior protection compared to conventional oil, especially in extreme temperatures, and it also lasts longer. When selecting an oil filter, make sure it's the correct part number for your vehicle. Using the wrong oil filter can result in poor filtration and potential engine damage. It's also worth considering the quality of the oil filter. Higher-quality filters often have better filtration capabilities and can trap more contaminants. You can consult your local auto parts store or online resources to find the recommended oil and oil filter for your specific vehicle. Investing in high-quality oil and a reliable oil filter is a smart way to protect your engine and ensure it runs smoothly for years to come. Remember, a little extra effort in choosing the right products can make a big difference in the long run.

Step-by-Step Guide

Alright, let's get our hands dirty! Follow these steps to change the oil in your 2017 Honda Civic EX-T:

1. Warm-Up the Engine: Run the engine for a few minutes to warm up the oil. This helps it flow more easily.
2. Prepare the Car: Park your car on a level surface. Engage the parking brake. Use the jack to lift the front of the car and securely place jack stands underneath for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack!
3. Locate the Drain Plug: Find the oil drain plug underneath the engine. It's usually on the oil pan.
4. Drain the Old Oil: Place the oil drain pan under the drain plug. Use the socket wrench to loosen and remove the drain plug. Let the oil drain completely. This may take 15-20 minutes.
5. Remove the Old Oil Filter: Locate the oil filter. Use the oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old filter. Be prepared for some oil to spill.
6. Install the New Oil Filter: Lightly lubricate the rubber gasket on the new oil filter with fresh oil. Screw the new filter on by hand until the gasket makes contact, then tighten it another ¾ turn. Don't overtighten!
7. Reinstall the Drain Plug: Once the oil has completely drained, clean the drain plug and install a new crush washer (if applicable). Tighten the drain plug to the manufacturer's specified torque (check your owner's manual or a repair manual).
8. Lower the Car: Carefully remove the jack stands and lower the car.
9. Add New Oil: Open the hood and locate the oil filler cap. Remove the cap and insert the funnel. Pour in the correct amount of new oil (check your owner's manual). Use the dipstick to check the oil level. Add more oil if needed.
10. Check for Leaks: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter. If you see any leaks, tighten the connections.
11. Reset the Oil Life Monitor: Consult your owner's manual on how to reset the oil life monitor in your car.

Before you even think about jacking up your car, make sure you're working in a safe environment. Park on a level surface and engage the parking brake firmly. Gather all your tools and supplies within easy reach to avoid having to move around once the car is lifted. When using a jack, always refer to your car's owner's manual for the recommended jacking points. These are reinforced areas of the frame designed to safely support the vehicle's weight. Place the jack securely under the designated jacking point and slowly lift the car to the desired height. Once the car is lifted, immediately place jack stands underneath the frame near the jacking points. Jack stands are essential for providing a stable and secure base for the car while you're working underneath. Never, ever work under a car that is supported only by a jack. Jacks can fail, and the consequences can be catastrophic. By taking these precautions, you can create a safe working environment and minimize the risk of accidents. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when working on your car.

Properly disposing of used oil is not only environmentally responsible but also often required by law. Used motor oil contains harmful contaminants that can pollute soil and water if not disposed of correctly. The easiest and most common way to dispose of used oil is to take it to a local auto parts store or recycling center. Many auto parts stores accept used oil for free as a service to their customers. They typically have designated collection tanks where you can pour the used oil. Recycling centers also accept used oil, and some may even pay you a small amount for it. Before transporting the used oil, make sure it's stored in a sealed container to prevent spills. You can use the empty oil bottles or a dedicated oil drain container. Never pour used oil down the drain, into the sewer, or onto the ground. These actions are illegal and can cause significant environmental damage. By taking the time to properly dispose of your used oil, you're doing your part to protect the environment and ensure a cleaner future. So, remember to recycle your used oil responsibly!

Tips and Tricks

• Warm Oil is Best: As mentioned earlier, warm oil flows more easily. But be careful, it can also be hot! Let the engine cool down slightly before draining the oil to avoid burns.
• Don't Overtighten: Overtightening the drain plug or oil filter can damage the threads or gasket. Tighten them snugly, but don't crank on them.
• Keep it Clean: Work in a clean area and wipe up any spills immediately. Oil can stain concrete and other surfaces.
• Double-Check Everything: Before starting the engine, double-check that the drain plug and oil filter are properly tightened, and that you've added the correct amount of oil.

Ensuring the drain plug is properly tightened is a critical step in the oil change process. The drain plug seals the oil pan and prevents oil from leaking out while the engine is running. If the drain plug is not tightened sufficiently, oil can slowly seep out, leading to a gradual loss of oil pressure and potential engine damage. On the other hand, overtightening the drain plug can strip the threads in the oil pan, which can be a costly repair. The best approach is to tighten the drain plug to the manufacturer's specified torque, which can be found in your car's owner's manual or a repair manual. If you don't have a torque wrench, you can tighten the drain plug snugly by hand, but be careful not to overtighten it. After tightening the drain plug, always double-check for leaks. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes, then inspect the drain plug for any signs of oil seepage. If you notice any leaks, tighten the drain plug a bit more until the leak stops. By taking the time to properly tighten the drain plug, you can prevent oil leaks and ensure your engine stays properly lubricated.

After completing the oil change, resetting the oil life monitor is an important step to ensure your car's maintenance system is accurate. The oil life monitor is a system that estimates the remaining life of your engine oil based on various factors such as driving conditions, mileage, and engine load. When you change the oil, you need to reset the monitor so it can start tracking the new oil's life. The process for resetting the oil life monitor varies depending on the car's make and model. In most 2017 Honda Civic EX-T, you can reset the oil life monitor through the car's infotainment system. Typically, you'll need to navigate to the maintenance or settings menu and find the option to reset the oil life. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the reset. Refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions on how to reset the oil life monitor in your car. Resetting the oil life monitor ensures that you receive accurate maintenance reminders and helps you keep your engine in top condition. So, don't forget to reset the monitor after each oil change!

Conclusion

There you have it! You've successfully changed the oil in your 2017 Honda Civic EX-T. Give yourself a pat on the back! It might seem daunting at first, but with a little preparation and this guide, you can save money and gain a better understanding of your car. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult your owner's manual for specific instructions. Happy wrenching!