Hey guys! Changing your oil is one of the most fundamental maintenance tasks you can do for your car, and it can save you a ton of money if you do it yourself. Today, we're diving into a step-by-step guide on how to change the oil in your 2016 Honda HRV. Don't worry, it's not as intimidating as it sounds! With a few basic tools and a little bit of time, you'll be a pro in no time. So, grab your wrenches, and let's get started!

What You'll Need

Before we get our hands dirty, let's gather all the necessary supplies. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and efficient. Here’s a checklist of what you'll need:

• New Oil: Check your owner's manual to confirm the correct type and amount of oil for your 2016 Honda HRV. Typically, you'll need around 3.7 quarts of 0W-20 synthetic oil. Using the correct oil is crucial for the longevity and performance of your engine.
• New Oil Filter: Again, consult your owner's manual or a reliable auto parts store to get the correct oil filter for your vehicle. A fresh filter ensures that your new oil stays clean and effective. Don't cheap out on the filter! A good quality filter can make a big difference.
• Wrench Set: You'll need a wrench to remove the oil drain plug. The size usually is a 17mm wrench, but it’s always a good idea to double-check. An oil filter wrench will also be necessary to remove the old filter. Make sure it's the right size for your filter.
• Oil Drain Pan: This is essential to catch the old oil. Choose one that's large enough to hold all the oil from your engine (around 4 quarts should be sufficient). It’s better to have a little extra space than to deal with spills.
• Funnel: A funnel will help you pour the new oil into the engine without making a mess. A clean funnel is a must.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from the grime and oil. Nitrile gloves are a good choice.
• Rags or Shop Towels: You'll need these to wipe up any spills and keep your workspace clean. Trust me, you'll need them!
• Jack and Jack Stands (or Ramps): You'll need to safely lift your car to access the oil drain plug and filter. Never work under a car supported only by a jack. Safety first!
• Wheel chocks: These will ensure your car doesn't roll while you're working on it.

Why Use the Right Oil?

Using the manufacturer-recommended oil is incredibly important. Modern engines are designed with specific tolerances and require oil with particular properties to ensure proper lubrication, cooling, and cleaning. Using the wrong oil can lead to:

• Reduced Engine Life: Incorrect viscosity can cause excessive wear on engine components.
• Poor Performance: The wrong oil might not provide adequate lubrication, leading to decreased fuel efficiency and power.
• Engine Damage: In severe cases, using the wrong oil can cause significant engine damage, requiring costly repairs.

Always double-check your owner's manual and consult with a trusted mechanic or auto parts store if you're unsure about the correct type of oil for your 2016 Honda HRV.

Step-by-Step Guide

Okay, now that we have all our tools and supplies, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Follow these steps carefully, and you'll have your oil changed in no time.

1. Prepare Your Vehicle

• Warm-Up the Engine: Start your car and let it run for a few minutes. Warming the oil makes it flow more easily, helping to remove more contaminants. However, don't let it get too hot, or you risk burning yourself.
• Park on a Level Surface: Ensure your car is parked on a level surface to ensure accurate draining of the old oil.
• Engage the Parking Brake: This is a no-brainer, but always engage the parking brake for safety.
• Chock the Wheels: Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels to prevent any accidental movement.

2. Lift the Vehicle

• Position the Jack: Consult your owner's manual for the correct jacking points on your 2016 Honda HRV. These are reinforced areas designed to safely support the weight of the vehicle.
• Raise the Vehicle: Slowly and carefully raise the vehicle using the jack.
• Secure with Jack Stands: Once you've raised the vehicle to a suitable height, place jack stands under the designated support points. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Jack stands provide a stable and secure platform.
• Double-Check Stability: Give the car a gentle nudge to ensure it's stable on the jack stands before proceeding.

3. Locate and Remove the Oil Drain Plug

• Locate the Oil Drain Plug: The oil drain plug is usually located on the bottom of the oil pan. It's a large bolt that, when removed, will allow the old oil to drain out. Refer to your vehicle's repair manual if you're having trouble finding it.
• Position the Oil Drain Pan: Place the oil drain pan directly beneath the drain plug to catch the used oil.
• Loosen the Drain Plug: Using the correct size wrench, carefully loosen the drain plug. Be prepared for the oil to start flowing once the plug is fully removed.
• Remove the Drain Plug: Finish removing the drain plug by hand, being careful as the oil will likely be warm. Let the oil drain completely into the pan. This may take 10-15 minutes.

4. Remove and Replace the Oil Filter

• Locate the Oil Filter: The oil filter is usually located near the engine block. Again, consult your owner's manual if you're unsure of its exact location.
• Position the Drain Pan: Place the drain pan beneath the oil filter, as some oil will spill when you remove it.
• Loosen the Oil Filter: Use an oil filter wrench to loosen the old filter. You may need to use some force, but be careful not to damage anything else.
• Remove the Oil Filter: Unscrew the oil filter by hand. Be prepared for some oil to spill. Dispose of the old filter properly.
• Prepare the New Oil Filter: Lightly lubricate the rubber gasket on the new oil filter with fresh oil. This helps create a good seal.
• Install the New Oil Filter: Screw the new oil filter into place by hand until the gasket makes contact with the engine block. Then, tighten it an additional ¾ turn. Do not overtighten!

5. Reinstall the Drain Plug

• Clean the Drain Plug: Inspect the drain plug and replace the washer if necessary. A new washer ensures a tight seal.
• Reinstall the Drain Plug: Carefully screw the drain plug back into the oil pan by hand. Tighten it with the wrench to the manufacturer's specified torque (usually around 30 lb-ft). Do not overtighten, as this can damage the oil pan.

6. Add New Oil

• Locate the Oil Fill Cap: This is usually marked with an oil can symbol. Consult your owner's manual if you're unsure.
• Remove the Oil Fill Cap: Unscrew the oil fill cap.
• Insert the Funnel: Place the funnel into the oil fill opening.
• Add the Correct Amount of Oil: Pour in the amount of oil specified in your owner's manual (usually around 3.7 quarts for a 2016 Honda HRV). It's better to add a little less at first and then check the level.

7. Check the Oil Level

• Remove the Dipstick: Locate the dipstick, usually marked with a yellow handle. Pull it out and wipe it clean with a rag.
• Reinsert the Dipstick: Fully reinsert the dipstick into the tube.
• Check the Oil Level: Pull the dipstick out again and check the oil level. It should be between the minimum and maximum marks. Add more oil if necessary to reach the correct level.

8. Start the Engine and Check for Leaks

• Start the Engine: Start your car and let it run for a few minutes.
• Check for Leaks: Carefully inspect the oil drain plug and oil filter for any leaks. If you see any leaks, tighten the connections as needed.
• Turn Off the Engine: Turn off the engine and let the car sit for a few minutes.
• Recheck the Oil Level: Check the oil level again using the dipstick and add more oil if necessary.

9. Reset the Oil Life Monitoring System

• Follow the Procedure: Consult your owner's manual for the specific procedure to reset the oil life monitoring system in your 2016 Honda HRV. This usually involves using the buttons on the dashboard.

Disposal of Used Oil

• Proper Disposal: Used oil is a hazardous waste and must be disposed of properly. Do not pour it down the drain or into the ground.
• Recycle: Take the used oil to a local recycling center or auto parts store that accepts used oil for recycling. Many auto parts stores will take used oil and filters for free.

Congratulations!

You've successfully changed the oil in your 2016 Honda HRV! Give yourself a pat on the back. By following these steps, you've saved yourself some money and gained a valuable skill. Remember to keep track of your oil change intervals and perform regular maintenance to keep your car running smoothly for years to come. Safe driving, guys!