Changing a car's motor oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles can improve the performance and life of an engine. In the case of the Honda Passport, a compact sport utility vehicle, especially an older car like a 1999, it's best to make sure that the oil is changed regularly, although the mileage can be lengthened depending on the specific brand of motor oil. Most manufacturers have their own recommendations. Generally, changing the oil also means replacing the filter, so have a new one handy.
Apply the vehicle's hand brake. Place the cinder blocks behind the rear wheels.
Position the floor jack beneath the front of the car. Choose a solid point under the car to use as a jack point.
Raise the car using the floor jack and secure it in place using the jack stands.
Locate the oil pan at the bottom of the engine on the driver's side.
Place a pan or bucket under the oil pan.
Remove the drain plug to let the oil leak out. Wait for all the oil to drain out of the tank.
Clean the plug and place it back into the drain hole.
Locate the oil filter on the lower part of the engine, toward the front. The oil filter can be reached from above or below, although above requires reaching through the engine while below requires removal of the skid plate (a few bolts). If going from under the vehicle use the ratchet to remove the skid plate. From above the engine look down the left side of the radiator to locate the filter.
Remove the filter one side at a time by removing the bolts keeping it in place. If the skid plate is in place be very careful so no oil leaks out and drops onto the plate.
Place a little bit of motor oil on your finger (make sure it is the correct type before purchasing) and spread a thin layer over the gasket of the new oil filter.
Bolt the new filter into place.
Remove the oil cap and add oil into the oil pan. Normally this is around 4.5 to 5 qts. Replace the oil cap once the new oil has been added.
Check for any leaks around the oil filter and the drain plug.
Jack up the car to remove the jack stands, then lower the vehicle back to the floor.
Start the vehicle to assure that everything is working. Remember to remove the cinder blocks before using the vehicle.
