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How long should I wait to change my oil after driving?

I want to try to save money by changing my own oil at home. I know it’s better to change the oil when the engine is warm, but I don’t want to get burned, so how long should I wait to change the oil after I’ve been driving?

avatar
Sarah Gray · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
You’re 100% right—your car’s engine should be warm when you change your oil, but not so hot that you get burned.
If you’ve been out driving, give your car 20 to 30 minutes to cool off before you start draining the oil. But don’t wait too long, or the oil will cool and get too thick to flow easily. If you think you might have waited too long, don’t fret, just fire up the engine for two to three minutes before you start to drain the oil.
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