Cold WX oil change

It's been a long time since I've lived in a cold climate and I need to do my first cold WX (10-20 degrees) oil change. My question is should I warm the engine up first or just drain it cold?I'm thinking warming it up would make it flow and drain better. Thoughts???

 

go drive around the block a few times....

i'd warm it.

 

If your options are to drain it when fully cold or drive it a while before draining, then drive it. But, is it possible to put off changing the oil until you normally drive it, like after going about your daily business? That way the engine will be *fully* warmed and you're more likely get a good drain that way. And for me it seems needless to drive the vehicle when I don't actually have anywhere to go.

 

You can even warm the oil by idling the engine.

I'd just do that for 5 to 10 minutes unless you feel like going for a spin. I wouldn't try to drain it completely cold because it will come out like molasses and you won't get it all.

 

warm it up wait 10 mins and drain it

 

Thanks! That's what I figured just wanted to make sure.

This cold and snow stuff is for the birds!

 

I don't think the birds like the cold either.

 

You should always warm up the oil before draining. That way the particles are all suspended in the oil.