For 2008 and earlier models, begin by raising the vehicle and securely supporting it on jackstands, then drain the engine oil and clean the drain plug before reinstalling it with the proper torque. Remove and discard the oil filter, followed by the catalytic converter from the exhaust system. Unscrew the oil pan retaining bolts progressively, using a rubber mallet to loosen the seal, and carefully lower the oil pan, taking care not to damage the mating surfaces. Clean and degrease the mating surfaces of the lower engine block and oil pan, applying a 1/8-inch wide bead of sealant to the oil pan flange, ensuring it is positioned correctly. Install the oil pan bolts in a criss-cross pattern, tightening them sequentially, then lower the vehicle and allow the sealant to cure before refilling with oil and installing a new oil filter. For 2009 and later models, loosen the left front wheel lug nuts, raise the vehicle, and remove the left front wheel. Remove the throttle body air intake duct and drain the engine oil. Loosen the top two transaxle-to-engine mounting bolts, and for 4WD models, also loosen the corresponding bolts on the transfer case. Remove the splash shield and the bolts securing the oil pan to the transaxle, then slide the transaxle away from the engine. Remove the bolts securing the front cover to the oil pan and those attaching the oil pan to the engine block. If necessary, bump the oil pan with a block of wood to break it loose. Clean and degrease the mating surfaces, applying a bead of RTV sealant to the oil pan sealing surfaces. Install the oil pan and secure the front cover and engine block bolts finger tight, then tighten the front cover-to-oil pan bolts first, followed by the engine-to-oil pan bolts in a criss-cross pattern. Alternate tightening the transaxle mounting bolts until secure, then install the transaxle-to-oil pan bolts and tighten them. Reinstall the splash shield, tighten the remaining transaxle-to-engine bolts, and finally, install the air intake duct before filling the engine with new oil after ensuring the RTV sealant has cured.
