How to Change Engine Oil in Maruti Suzuki Swift – Step-by-Step Guide for Indian Owners
Category: Car Maintenance
Changing your engine oil might sound intimidating, but it’s actually one of the easiest things you can do to keep your Maruti Swift running smoothly — and save money. In India, workshops may charge ₹700–₹1500 for this job, but if you do it yourself? You can get it done for half that.
Whether you’re a first-time car owner or a DIY enthusiast, this guide will walk you through the entire process of changing engine oil in your Swift.
Table of Contents
- Why Engine Oil Change is Important
- When to Change Oil in a Maruti Swift?
- Tools & Items You’ll Need
- Step-by-Step Engine Oil Change Process
- Cost Breakdown in India (2025 Estimates)
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Expert Tips for Indian Car Owners
- Final Thoughts
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Engine Oil Change is Important
- Lubricates engine components
- Prevents overheating
- Removes dirt and sludge
- Increases mileage and engine life
- Skipping oil changes can severely damage your engine over time
When to Change Oil in a Maruti Swift?
- Petrol: Every 10,000 km or 12 months
- Diesel: Every 7,500 km or 12 months
Signs your oil needs changing:
- Oil appears black and gritty
- Engine feels sluggish
- Decreased mileage
- Oil warning light on dashboard
Tools & Items You’ll Need
- Wrench set
- Oil drain pan
- Funnel
- Jack and safety stands
- Old cloths or rags
- New engine oil (typically 3.2–3.5L of 5W-30 or 10W-40)
- New oil filter (recommended)
Step-by-Step Engine Oil Change Process
- Warm the engine: Let the car run for 3–5 minutes to warm up the oil.
- Turn off the engine and lift the car: Use a jack and stands safely.
- Locate the drain plug: Found underneath the engine bay.
- Place the oil pan: Directly under the drain bolt to catch old oil.
- Loosen and remove the drain bolt: Let oil fully drain (takes 5–10 minutes).
- Remove and replace the oil filter: Optional but highly recommended.
- Reinstall the drain bolt: Tighten securely but don’t overtighten.
- Add new oil: Use a funnel and pour in the recommended quantity.
- Start the engine: Let it run for 1–2 minutes. Check for leaks.
- Check the oil level: Use dipstick and top-up if needed.
Cost Breakdown in India (2025 Estimates)
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Engine Oil (3.5L) | ₹900–₹1400 |
| Oil Filter | ₹200–₹300 |
| Labor (if done outside) | ₹300–₹600 |
| DIY Total | ₹1000 approx. |
| Garage Total | ₹1500–₹2000 |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling engine oil
- Using the wrong oil grade
- Not tightening the drain bolt properly
- Skipping oil filter replacement
Expert Tips for Indian Car Owners
- Wear gloves to avoid oil burns and stains
- Dispose used oil responsibly — take it to a local garage
- Set a reminder for your next oil change
- Clean up spills immediately to avoid driveway stains
Final Thoughts
Maintaining your Swift doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. With a little effort and basic tools, you can take charge of your car’s health and even enjoy the process.
Have questions? Drop them in the comments or send us your experience — we might feature it in our next DIY guide!
Frequently Asked Questions – Maruti Swift Oil Change
How often should I change engine oil in Maruti Swift?
For petrol variants, every 10,000 km or 12 months is recommended. For diesel Swifts, change oil every 7,500 km or 12 months. Always refer to your owner’s manual as well.
What type of oil is best for Maruti Suzuki Swift in India?
Most Swift petrol variants use 5W-30 or 10W-40 engine oil. Diesel versions usually take 5W-40 or 15W-40. Stick to trusted brands like Castrol, Shell, or Mobil and always match the grade to your car’s requirement.
Can I change engine oil without changing the oil filter?
Yes, you can — but it’s not recommended. The old filter may contain dirty oil and metal particles, which can contaminate your fresh oil. Always change the filter with every oil change if possible.
What’s the average cost of engine oil change in India?
DIY cost is around ₹1000 (oil + filter). At a local garage or authorized service center, it can cost anywhere from ₹1500 to ₹2000 depending on oil brand and labor charges.
Is it safe to change oil at home in India?
Yes, absolutely — as long as you follow basic safety steps like properly jacking up the car, wearing gloves, and using a proper oil pan. Always work in a flat, open space and take your time.