How to Change Oil on a 1995 GMC Safari
Tools & Supplies You'll Need
- 5W-30 oil (4.5 quarts)
- Oil filter for 1995 GMC Safari
- Oil drain pan
- Socket wrench set
- Oil filter wrench
- Jack and jack stands (or ramps)
- Funnel
- Shop towels / rags
- Disposable gloves
Gather supplies
You will need 5W-30 motor oil (4.5 quarts with filter), a new oil filter, drain pan, and basic hand tools.
Warm up the engine
Start the 1995 GMC Safari and let it idle for 2-3 minutes. Warm oil flows more completely, ensuring you drain out more of the old oil and contaminants.
Raise the vehicle
Safely raise the vehicle using a jack and secure it on jack stands, or drive it onto ramps. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
Drain the old oil
Locate the oil drain plug on the bottom of the oil pan. Place the drain pan underneath, then remove the drain plug with a socket wrench. Let the oil drain completely — this takes about 5 minutes.
Replace the oil filter
Remove the old oil filter using an oil filter wrench. Apply a thin film of new oil to the gasket of the new filter, then install it hand-tight plus 3/4 turn. Do not over-tighten.
Reinstall the drain plug
Once oil has finished draining, reinstall the drain plug and tighten it snugly. Use a new crush washer if your vehicle requires one.
Add new oil
Lower the vehicle. Using a funnel, pour in 5W-30 oil — approximately 4.5 quarts with the new filter. Do not overfill.
Check the oil level
Start the engine and let it run for 2-3 minutes, then turn it off. Wait 5 minutes for oil to settle, pull the dipstick, wipe it, reinsert, and check the level. Top off if needed.
Dispose of old oil properly
Pour the used oil from the drain pan into the old oil containers. Take it to any auto parts store (AutoZone, O'Reilly, etc.) — they accept used oil free of charge.
Before You Start
Changing your own oil on a 1995 GMC Safari is one of the easiest and most cost-effective DIY maintenance tasks. The 1995 GMC Safari uses 5W-30 motor oil with a capacity of 4.5 quarts (with filter).
Oil should be changed every 5,000–7,500 miles for full synthetic oil, or as indicated by your oil life monitor. Regular oil changes are the single most important thing you can do to extend engine life.
Tips for the GMC Safari
- Always use the correct oil weight: 5W-30. Using the wrong viscosity can affect fuel economy and engine protection.
- Use full synthetic oil for the best protection and longest drain intervals.
- After an oil change, reset the oil life monitor if your GMC has one. Check your owner's manual for the reset procedure.
- Keep a record of your oil changes with mileage for resale value documentation.