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How long do you have to wait to change your oil after driving?

Should I wait for a while to change my oil after I drive, or can I do it right away? I don’t want to burn myself, but I’ve also heard that it can be good to drive your car first.

avatar
Liz Jenson · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
To avoid burning yourself, it’s usually best to wait 30 to 45 minutes to change
your oil
after driving long distances. That way, the oil and metal won’t be so hot that they pose a danger to you.
However, your engine can be warm. In fact, a warm engine can help with the viscosity of the oil, so it’s often recommended that you let your engine run for a few minutes before you try to change your oil if you haven’t driven recently.
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