What should be done before performing an oil change on a vehicle?

Before performing an oil change on a vehicle, warming up the oil is crucial because it allows the oil to flow more freely, making it easier to drain. When the oil is warm, it loses some of its viscosity, which helps in removing contaminants and old oil more effectively during the change. This step is important for ensuring that the new oil can properly lubricate the engine.

While starting the engine may seem like a good idea, it doesn't achieve the same effect as warming the oil. In fact, leaving an engine running while performing maintenance can pose safety risks. Inspecting the air filter and checking tire pressure are also important maintenance tasks, but they are not directly related to the oil change process and do not facilitate the drainage of used oil. Focusing on warming up the oil ensures a more efficient and thorough oil change.