Next remove the black plastic oil filler cap on the top of the engine by twisting it counter clockwise. Removing the oil filler cap will prevent a vacuum from forming while draining out the old oil and also help it to drain out more quickly.

Then engage the parking brake and chock the rear wheels to prevent the vehicle from moving. Raise the front passenger side of the vehicle with the floor jack and securely support it with two jack stands. Alternatively, you could also raise the front of the vehicle with automotive ramps.

Locate and remove the triangular shaped oil drain bolt access door near the rear of the engine which is marked with the words "Engine Oil".

Move the used oil catch container to below the drain bolt and remove it with the 17mm socket and ratcheting wrench.

Be careful when draining out the old oil as it may be hot enough to burn your skin depending on how long you warmed up the engine. If you get any of the used oil on your skin, wash it off as soon as possible since used motor oil is known to be carcinogenic (cancer causing).

Tighten the oil drain bolt to just past hand tight or about 20-25 ft lbs of torque. Do not over tighten the oil drain bolt or you risk damaging the threads or the oil pan, which may cause an oil leak.

Move the used oil catch container forwards to below the oil filter access hole and twist off the old oil filter by turning it counter clockwise. If you have trouble turning the old oil filter by hand, use an oil filter wrench or strap to help get it started.

Lubricating the rubber o-ring on the new oil filter will allow it to form a better seal, prevent oil leaks, and also make it easier to remove the filter during the next oil change.

Twist the new oil filter on to the engine and tighten it to about 1/4 to 1/2 turn past hand tight. Do not use the oil filter wrench to tighten the new filter. Over tightening the new oil filter may damage the rubber o-ring and lead to oil leaks.

Insert the automotive funnel into the oil filler hole and carefully pour in about 4 to 4.5 quarts of the 2.4L I4 engine's 4.86 quart (4.6L) total engine oil capacity.

(2.0L Turbo Owners - The oil capacity for the Hyundai Sonata with the 2.0L Turbo GDI engine is the same 4.86 Qts.)

Replace the oil filler cap, run the engine for a few minutes, shut it off and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes.

When the oil level is correct, re-insert the oil filler cap and tighten it by turning it clockwise.

Be sure to check the oil level on the dipstick several times over the next few days and watch your driveway for oil spots that may indicate a leak from the oil drain bolt or oil filter. Record the mileage and oil change details in your service record book.

For more, check out my other Hyundai Sonata Repair & Maintenance Guides page.