When you get your oil and oil filter changed by a mechanic, you’re paying for both the parts and the labor, which means you could be paying a lot less if you learn how to perform these simple maintenance tasks at home.

But before you can change your oil, you’ll need to know what your Mazda’s oil capacity is. Licensed

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2012 Mazda 6 engine oil capacity

Changing your oil at home is pretty easy, but you’ll need to know your 2012 Mazda 6’s oil capacity if you want to avoid under- or over-filling your engine’s oil reservoir.

Your 2012 Mazda 6 2.5L engine has an oil capacity of exactly 5.3 quarts, which converts to 5 liters.

As you may notice, this number is not the same as your engine’s displacement, or the 2.5-liter volume occupied by the engine cylinders (hence a “2.5L engine”). Take care not to confuse the two numbers.

What kind of oil does a 2012 Mazda 6 need?

Per the manufacturer’s recommendations, a 2012 Mazda 6 needs full synthetic 0W-20 engine oil.

But what do those numbers actually indicate? Whenever you buy motor oil, the first number you see—in this case, a “0”—tells us the oil’s winter rating, or what the oil’s viscosity is like when temperatures are very low. The lower the number, the more easily it will flow.

The second number tells us what the oil’s viscosity is like when the engine reaches normal operating temperatures of 212°F or higher, and a “20” means the oil will still be pretty thin at these high temps.

What’s recommended: Mazda Genuine SAE 0W-20 Oil

More:

Ultimate FRAM oil filter guide

How often to change the oil on a 2012 Mazda 6

Mazda suggests that you change your 2012 Mazda 6’s oil every 7,500 miles or once a year, whichever comes first.

You may need to change your oil more often, however, if you routinely make short trips, drive in extreme temperatures, or drive on dusty, sandy, dirt, or gravel roads.

You should also be checking your oil once or twice a month before you reach the recommended intervals to minimize the chances of accidentally damaging your engine.

If you start to notice any of the following, you may need to change your oil sooner rather than later:

The engine oil has a gritty or grainy texture

The oil changes from a warm amber color to dark brown or black

Your Mazda’s overall performance worsens

The engine produces a smoky, oily, or burning smell

You hear

abnormal noises

coming from the engine

How to change your oil and oil filter

If you’ve decided to change your oil and oil filter at home, you’ll need the following tools: an oil drain pan, socket wrench, and filter wrench. You’ll also need to purchase a new filter and six quarts of synthetic 0W-20 motor oil.

After you’ve gathered the necessary tools, insert your key into the ignition and start your vehicle, allowing it to run for a few minutes until the engine reaches normal operating temperatures. When conditions are normal, this should only take 4-5 minutes.

Once the engine has reached the proper temperature, shut it off, open the hood, and follow these steps:

Find the oil reservoir and unscrew the cap.

Position your drain pan underneath the oil reservoir drain hole. Use the socket wrench to remove the drain bolt and washer. Allow the oil to drain into the oil drain pan.

As you wait for the oil to finish draining, remove the old oil filter with the filter wrench.

Insert a new oil filter.

Once the oil has drained all the way, replace the bolt and install a new washer. Consult your owner’s manual to figure out the recommended tightness.

Fill your engine with clean oil and screw the oil cap back into place.

Once you’ve refilled the reservoir with new oil, use a dipstick to make sure enough was added. After changing your oil, it’s a good idea to turn on your car and let your engine run for about 30 seconds before you check the oil level. This will give you a more accurate measurement, and you’ll be able to top it off if necessary.

If the level is good, switch your car on and allow it to run for a few minutes. Once the engine has warmed up, check for leaks.

As long as you follow all instructions carefully, the oil pressure/warning light on your Mazda’s dashboard should turn off.

MORE:

Are Mazdas good cars?

How to find affordable car insurance

Learning how to perform basic maintenance services (such as changing your own oil and filter) can help you save a couple hundred dollars a year on vehicle-related expenses. Another easy way is to use licensed car insurance broker

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