Every car owner knows, or at least should know, that the oil in the engine is an extremely important component that ensures an engine will run reliably for many miles. This is no different for the Volkswagen Beetle, a retro-styled VW that looks similar to the original Bug but uses an up-to-date chassis and mechanics. The oil in a new Beetle can be changed at the dealer, by any reputable mechanic or can be changed by the owner.
Park the car on a flat level surface. The oil drains more easily and thoroughly if the engine has recently been run. Ensure the engine is not hot before working on it, though.
Jack up the front of the car with a floor jack and lower it onto jack stands. Alternatively, drive the front end up of the vehicle onto ramp stands to lift the vehicle. Place a block of wood or wheel chock behind the rear wheels. Open the hood. Remove the oil cap.
Remove the screws from underneath the car that hold the engine splash guard in place. Slide the oil pan under the oil drain bolt in the sump of the engine. Loosen and remove the drain plug with a 19 mm socket and ratchet. Allow all the oil to drain into the pan, which can take five to ten minutes.
Place a new crush washer on the drain plug after removing the old one. Thread the drain plug back into the engine. Tighten the plug to 25 foot-pounds with a torque wrench.
Locate the oil filter -- the round cylinder found near the bottom of the engine -- and loosen it with the filter wrench. Once it's loose, unthread it by hand. Oil will spill out when you remove it, so move it quickly onto the drain pan. Wipe up any spilled oil.
Wipe the area down around the filter housing. Lubricate the rubber gasket on the new oil filter with some oil on your finger. Install the new filter hand-tight. Turn the filter an additional 1/2 turn with the filter wrench. Do not over-tighten it. Reinstall the splash shield.
Pour 4.5 quarts of fresh oil into the engine. Let the engine settle. Replace the oil cap. Start the engine and check for oil leaks. Lower the car from the jack stands or ramps. Check the level with the dip stick. Add more oil as needed. Ensure oil is between the lines on the dipstick.
Dispose of the old oil properly. Most auto parts stores will recycle it for you for free.
