Changing the oil in a 2008 Chevy Impala is straightforward and simple procedure. The Impala uses a conventional filter and weight of oil. Originally, the car comes from the factory with synthetic 5W30 oil. The synthetic version is not a necessity, although it is less dangerous for the environment.
Lift the hood and remove the oil filler cap. Raise the front of the car and place jack stands under the sub frame. Lower the car so that it rests on the jack stands.
Place the drain pan under the oil pan. Remove the oil drain plug, using a wrench. Allow 15 minutes for it to drain. Replace the drain plug and tighten just until it is snug. Do not over-tighten it, because there are only 3 to 4 threads in the pan, and they strip easily.
Move the drain pan under the oil filter, which is close to the radiator on the passenger side. Remove the oil filter, using the filter wrench, and dispose of it properly.
Spread a little oil on the oil filter gasket. Install the new oil filter. Tighten the filter hand-tight only.
Pull the drain pan out from under the car and lower the car to the ground. Place the funnel in the oil filler tube and fill the engine with 5 quarts of oil. Install the oil filler cap.
