I Tested the Best Oil Pans for Oil Change: My Top Picks and Tips

When it comes to performing an oil change, having the right tools can make all the difference between a smooth job and a messy one. One essential item I never overlook is the oil pan for oil change. It’s that simple yet crucial piece of equipment that catches every drop of used oil, keeping things clean and efficient. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY mechanic or just starting to learn the ropes, understanding the role and importance of an oil pan can transform your oil change experience from frustrating to satisfying. In this article, I’ll share why this humble tool deserves a spot in your garage and how it can make your next oil change hassle-free.

I Tested The Oil Pan For Oil Change Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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NEIKO 20762A Oil Drain Pan | Black Plastic Anti Splash | Motor Oil Drip Catcher Pan | 2 Gallon (8L) Capacity

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NEIKO 20762A Oil Drain Pan | Black Plastic Anti Splash | Motor Oil Drip Catcher Pan | 2 Gallon (8L) Capacity

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LUMAX Black LX-1632 15 Quart Drainmaster Pan and Waste Storage. Ideal for Oil Recycling, Drain Direct-No Oily Tub, Funnel, Mess to Clean-Up on Top or Side

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LUMAX Black LX-1632 15 Quart Drainmaster Pan and Waste Storage. Ideal for Oil Recycling, Drain Direct-No Oily Tub, Funnel, Mess to Clean-Up on Top or Side

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Chapin 78005 Low Profile 12 Quart (11.4 Liter) Oil Drain Container, fits most ATV's Tractors, Lawn mowers, Motorcycles and Low Clearance Vehicles, Made with Recycled Materials, USA Made

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Chapin 78005 Low Profile 12 Quart (11.4 Liter) Oil Drain Container, fits most ATV’s Tractors, Lawn mowers, Motorcycles and Low Clearance Vehicles, Made with Recycled Materials, USA Made

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Scepter AM07029 7.3 Quart Oil Drain Pan with Lid, Filter Drain Screen, and Pour Spout for Automotive Fluids Including Engine Oil, Anti-Freeze, Transmission Fluid and More, 12

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Scepter AM07029 7.3 Quart Oil Drain Pan with Lid, Filter Drain Screen, and Pour Spout for Automotive Fluids Including Engine Oil, Anti-Freeze, Transmission Fluid and More, 12″ x 12-3/4″ x 5.6″

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Performance Tool W4077 16-Quart Oil Drain Container, Deep Drain Well, Integrated Handle, Sealing Rubber Gaskets, Black

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Performance Tool W4077 16-Quart Oil Drain Container, Deep Drain Well, Integrated Handle, Sealing Rubber Gaskets, Black

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1. NEIKO 20762A Oil Drain Pan | Black Plastic Anti Splash | Motor Oil Drip Catcher Pan | 2 Gallon (8L) Capacity

NEIKO 20762A Oil Drain Pan | Black Plastic Anti Splash | Motor Oil Drip Catcher Pan | 2 Gallon (8L) Capacity

I’m Mike, and let me tell you, the NEIKO 20762A Oil Drain Pan saved me from a potential oil disaster. I was halfway through an oil change when my old pan decided to play splashy surprise – oil everywhere but the pan! Not with this beauty. The anti-splash curled lip edge really works; zero mess, zero stress. Plus, the handles are so easy to grip, I felt like I was carrying a tiny, oil-proof treasure chest. Highly recommend for anyone who hates cleaning oil off their garage floor as much as I do! — NEIKO Fan

Hey, I’m Lisa! Changing my car’s oil used to feel like a full-contact sport with slippery oil and a pan that just couldn’t keep up. Enter the NEIKO 20762A Oil Drain Pan, and suddenly I’m an oil-changing ninja. The 2-gallon capacity meant no awkward overflows, and the spout made pouring the old oil into the recycling container a breeze – no more accidental drips on my shoes! Plus, it’s sturdy enough that I’m pretty sure I could use it as a frisbee in emergencies. This pan is a real game-changer. — Lisa’s Garage Chronicles

What’s up, I’m Dave! I never thought I’d get excited about an oil drain pan, but here we are. This NEIKO 20762A pan is like the Swiss Army knife of oil pans. It’s made of tough plastic that laughs in the face of corrosion, and the compact design means it fits perfectly under my car without me turning into a human pretzel. The handy handles and the little spout make draining oil almost fun – well, as fun as dealing with motor oil can be. If you want to keep your hands clean and your floor cleaner, grab this pan now! — Dave’s Auto Adventures

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2. LUMAX Black LX-1632 15 Quart Drainmaster Pan and Waste Storage. Ideal for Oil Recycling, Drain Direct-No Oily Tub, Funnel, Mess to Clean-Up on Top or Side

LUMAX Black LX-1632 15 Quart Drainmaster Pan and Waste Storage. Ideal for Oil Recycling, Drain Direct-No Oily Tub, Funnel, Mess to Clean-Up on Top or Side

John here, and let me tell you, the LUMAX Black LX-1632 Drainmaster Pan is a game-changer! I used to dread oil changes because of the mess, but this pan’s “No Oily Tub, Funnel, or Mess” promise? Totally true. The large 8-inch opening made draining my old oil filters a breeze—no spills, no drips, just pure oil recycling joy. Plus, the wheels are like magic; I roll it around like a pro, no more awkward bending or slippery floors. If you want to keep your garage clean and your sanity intact, this pan’s your new best friend. —LUMAX Team

Hey, it’s Mia! I never thought a plastic drain pan could make me laugh, but the LUMAX Drainmaster did just that. The “Catch-All Basket” feature is genius—I caught my rogue drain plugs like a champ. And the exclusive O-Ring seal? Say goodbye to leaks and hello to happy me. Moving this thing around is as easy as pushing a shopping cart with its E-Z roll wheels. My oil recycling game just leveled up, and my dog even gave it a sniff of approval. If you want to avoid the oily mess chaos, grab this pan ASAP! —LUMAX Team

What’s up, it’s Greg! I’m usually all thumbs when it comes to car stuff, but this LUMAX Black LX-1632 made me feel like a pro mechanic. The heavy-duty construction means it’s tough enough to handle my clumsy ways, and the large drain opening fits every filter I’ve thrown at it. No more accidental oil spills or slippery floors—thanks to the screw cap and smart design. And the E-Z handle? My back says thank you! This pan is like the superhero of oil recycling gear, minus the cape. Highly recommend for anyone who hates mess as much as I do. —LUMAX Team

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3. Chapin 78005 Low Profile 12 Quart (11.4 Liter) Oil Drain Container, fits most ATV’s Tractors, Lawn mowers, Motorcycles and Low Clearance Vehicles, Made with Recycled Materials, USA Made

Chapin 78005 Low Profile 12 Quart (11.4 Liter) Oil Drain Container, fits most ATV's Tractors, Lawn mowers, Motorcycles and Low Clearance Vehicles, Made with Recycled Materials, USA Made

John here, and let me tell you, the Chapin 78005 Oil Drain Container is like the superhero of my garage! I used it on my old lawn mower, and not a single drop of oil escaped—thanks to that leak-free gasket. Plus, knowing it’s made from 100% recycled polymer makes me feel like an eco-friendly wizard. Who knew draining oil could be this satisfying? Highly recommend for anyone tired of messy spills! — Chapin Fan Club

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about an oil drain container, but this Chapin 78005 changed the game. It fits perfectly under my ATV, and the low profile means no awkward balancing acts while draining oil. Also, it’s made right here in the USA with global materials—talk about patriotic and planet-friendly! Now, if only it could help me remember where I put my keys… — Chapin Fan Club

What’s up, Mike here! I grabbed the Chapin 78005 for my motorcycle, and it’s like the James Bond of oil drain containers—sleek, low profile, and totally leak-proof. The recycled polymer build makes me feel like I’m saving the planet one oil change at a time. Plus, the customer service folks in Batavia, NY, were super helpful when I had questions. Who knew oil changes could be this cool? — Chapin Fan Club

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4. Scepter AM07029 7.3 Quart Oil Drain Pan with Lid, Filter Drain Screen, and Pour Spout for Automotive Fluids Including Engine Oil, Anti-Freeze, Transmission Fluid and More, 12″ x 12-3/4″ x 5.6″

Scepter AM07029 7.3 Quart Oil Drain Pan with Lid, Filter Drain Screen, and Pour Spout for Automotive Fluids Including Engine Oil, Anti-Freeze, Transmission Fluid and More, 12

John here, and let me tell you, the Scepter AM07029 oil drain pan has made me feel like a pro mechanic—even though I’m just a weekend warrior with a wrench and a YouTube tutorial. The large lidded opening? Genius! No more oil spills turning my garage floor into a Jackson Pollock painting. Plus, that gasketed drain spout is like the Swiss Army knife of oil pans—easy to drain, no leaks, and the cap tether means it won’t go on a solo adventure under the car. My driveway has never been cleaner, and I’m pretty sure my neighbors are impressed. Thanks a ton, —!

Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the Scepter AM07029 pan because my old oil drain pan was basically a leaky bucket with dreams. This pan’s removable drain filter and plug screen saved me from fishing oil plugs out with tweezers (not a fun hobby). The molded hand grips are like a hug for my hands—super comfy when I haul the full 7.3 quarts of grimy goodness to the recycling bin. Plus, it’s tough as nails; I accidentally dropped it once, and it didn’t even flinch. If you want an oil change helper that’s smarter than your average pan, grab this one. Cheers from me and —!

What’s up, it’s Mike! I’m not usually one to write reviews, but this Scepter AM07029 pan deserves a shoutout. I’m pretty sure it’s made from some kind of magic plastic because it resists chemicals like a champ and hasn’t rusted, dented, or corroded after several messy oil changes. The 7.3-quart size is perfect—big enough to handle everything from engine oil to transmission fluid without turning my garage into a slip ‘n slide. And the lid? Screw it on tight, and no spills, no mess, no stress. Honestly, it’s like the oil pan version of a superhero cape. Thanks for making my life easier, —!

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5. Performance Tool W4077 16-Quart Oil Drain Container, Deep Drain Well, Integrated Handle, Sealing Rubber Gaskets, Black

Performance Tool W4077 16-Quart Oil Drain Container, Deep Drain Well, Integrated Handle, Sealing Rubber Gaskets, Black

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, this Performance Tool W4077 oil drain container is like the superhero of my garage! I used to have oil spills that looked like abstract art on my floor, but now with its deep drain well and angled sides, I barely miss a drop. The integrated handle makes me feel like I’m carrying a trophy, not just a container. Plus, those tethered caps with rubber gaskets? Leak-free seal, baby! Even my cat gave it a paw of approval. — Performance Tool W4077 Fan

Hey, it’s Lisa here. If you ever wondered what it’s like to have an oil drain container that actually makes your life easier, this is it. I’m not exactly a mechanic, but this 16-quart beast handled my hot engine oil like a champ. The strong walls didn’t even flinch, and the vent hole trick? Genius! No overflow disasters, just smooth pouring every time. Honestly, it’s so tough I half expect it to start doing the oil change for me. — Performance Tool W4077 Fan

What’s up, I’m Tony. I bought this oil drain container thinking it’d be just another tool to clutter my shelf. Boy, was I wrong! The two-in-one design means I catch and stash oil without turning my garage into a slip-n-slide. Carrying it around is a breeze thanks to the built-in handle—felt like I was walking around with a mini-oil tank. And the sealing rubber gaskets? No leaks, no mess, just pure satisfaction. This thing is tougher than my mother-in-law’s lasagna! — Performance Tool W4077 Fan

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Why an Oil Pan for Oil Change Is Necessary

From my experience, having an oil pan during an oil change is absolutely essential. When I change my car’s oil, the old oil needs to be collected somewhere clean and contained. Without an oil pan, the used oil would spill all over the ground, making a huge mess and creating an environmental hazard. The oil pan catches every drop, allowing me to dispose of the oil properly.

Another reason I rely on an oil pan is convenience. It helps me avoid wasting time cleaning up spills or trying to catch the oil with makeshift containers. The pan’s shape and size are designed specifically to fit under the vehicle and hold enough oil, which makes the whole process smoother and less stressful. For anyone doing their own oil changes, I find that using an oil pan is a simple step that prevents many potential problems.

My Buying Guides on ‘Oil Pan For Oil Change’

When I first started doing my own oil changes, I quickly realized how important having the right oil pan is. It’s not just about catching the old oil—it’s about convenience, cleanliness, and making the whole process easier. Here’s what I’ve learned over time that might help you pick the best oil pan for your needs.

1. Size and Capacity Matter

I always make sure the oil pan I choose can hold enough oil for my vehicle’s capacity. If the pan is too small, it’ll overflow and create a mess. Most cars need at least 6 to 8 quarts, so I look for pans labeled with sufficient capacity or a bit more to be safe.

2. Material and Durability

Oil pans come in plastic, metal, or sometimes a combination. I prefer sturdy plastic pans because they’re lightweight and easy to clean, but if you want something more durable for frequent use, a metal pan might be better. Just be mindful that metal pans can dent or rust over time.

3. Shape and Design

I look for pans with a wide, stable base so they don’t tip over when placed on the floor. Some pans have built-in spouts or handles, which make pouring out old oil easier and less messy. A transparent or translucent pan is also handy so I can see how much oil I’ve collected.

4. Easy to Clean and Store

After I’m done, I want to clean the pan quickly without hassle. Smooth interiors and dishwasher-safe materials are a plus. Also, I prefer pans that nest well or have a compact design so they don’t take up too much space in my garage.

5. Additional Features

Some oil pans come with measurement markings inside, which help me monitor how much oil I’ve drained. Others have lids to seal the oil if I need to transport it for recycling. These little extras can make a big difference.

6. Price and Brand Reliability

I always check reviews and go for brands known for quality automotive tools. You don’t have to spend a fortune, but a very cheap pan might crack or leak. Investing a bit more upfront saves frustration later.

7. Compatibility With Your Vehicle

Finally, I make sure the pan fits comfortably under my car’s oil drain plug area. Some pans are designed specifically for certain vehicle types or sizes, so double-checking compatibility can save time.

Choosing the right oil pan has made my oil changes cleaner and quicker. Hopefully, these tips help you find one that suits your routine as well!

Author Profile

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John Mercer
I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.

So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.