How to Change the Oil in a Dodge Caliber

Changing the oil in your Dodge Caliber is not different than changing oil in any car. You need certain tools and the ability to identify the oil filter and drain plug. Have a rag and oil drain pan handy, and it's always nice to have a helper nearby.

Items Needed:

• Oil Filter Wrench


• Metric or standard wrench to fit drain plug


• Car Jack or Ramps


• Blocks for Wheels


• Drain Pan


• New Oil Filter


• Rags


• New Oil

1. Ensure that your engine is cold. Pull your Dodge Caliber onto car ramps or jack it up at the driver's side at the proper location.


2. Set the parking brake and block the back wheels.


3. Place the drain pan under the oil drain plug and remove the drain plug with a wrench. Back your hand away quickly. Do not lose the Brass washer that is seated behind the drain plug.


4. Allow approximately 20 minutes for the oil to drain. Screw the drain plugs back in once the oil is done draining.


5. Place the oil drain pan under the oil filter area, and remove the oil filter with the oil filter wrench.


6. Place the oil filter upside down in the drain pan.


7. Pour some fresh oil into the new oil filter and apply a thin layer of oil to the oil filter seal.


8. Screw the new filter on and hand-tighten with dry, clean hands.


9. Pour three quarts of fresh oil, for a 4-cylinder engine, into the engine at the oil refill opening.


10. Back the car off the ramps or lower the jack and remove the blocks from the back tires.


11. Start the engine and allow it to run for a few minutes. Shut the engine off, wait for the oil to settle again and check the oil level with the dipstick. Add oil as needed to reach the "Full" mark on the dipstick.