Changing your vehicle’s oil and oil filter is one of the most important maintenance tasks you can do to keep your car or truck running smoothly. While oil lubricates the engine and keeps things running cool, the oil filter helps remove debris and contaminants from the oil before it circulates back through the engine. Over time, this debris can build up and cause excess wear if the oil and filter are not changed regularly.
Many automakers recommend changing your oil and filter every 3,000-5,000 miles, though some newer vehicles can go longer between changes. The type of oil and filter required may also vary based on your vehicle’s make and model, so be sure to consult your owner’s manual. When it comes time to change the oil filter, you may wonder if you need any special tools to get the job done correctly.
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Can I change the oil filter by hand?
In most cases, no special tool is required to change your vehicle’s oil filter. The filter is typically located under the hood, often near the engine block. It is shaped like a metal canister and has threads on the outside that allow it to screw on and off the engine mount. Changing the oil filter manually just requires unscrewing the old filter and then screwing on the new one until snug.
Be sure to lubricate the gasket on the new filter with fresh oil before installing. Tighten it by hand until secure, but do not overtighten. Many automotive experts recommend tightening about 2/3 to 3/4 of a turn after the filter contacts the mounting surface. Overtightening can actually cause the filter to leak.
If you have trouble unscrewing the old oil filter by hand, you can use an oil filter wrench or pliers to help grip and turn the filter. Wrap the wrench or pliers in an old rag to help improve grip and protect the filter from being dented. Take care not to puncture or damage the filter during removal.
When would I need an oil filter wrench?
In most cases, your oil filter should be accessible and removable by hand with a little effort. But there are some situations when an oil filter wrench or plier tool can come in handy:
– If the filter is installed very tightly or overtightened previously, the extra torque from a wrench may be needed to break it free.
– On some vehicle models, the oil filter may be mounted in a tricky-to-access spot where you need the tool for improved leverage.
– Over time, oil filters can become stuck on the mount due to accumulated grime, rust, or stripped/rounded off threads. A wrench provides added grip and force.
– If you have hand or wrist problems that make it difficult to grip and turn the filter by hand.
– If you want extra leverage for removal and installation. Though take care not to overtighten with the wrench.
So while not an absolute necessity, having an oil filter wrench available in your toolbox is recommended. And they are very inexpensive at any auto parts store – usually $5-15 depending on type. That small investment can pay off next time your filter refuses to budge!
Types of oil filter wrenches
If you decide to use an oil filter wrench, there are a few different styles to choose from:
Band wrench
This style wraps around the circumference of the oil filter like a band or belt. Tightening the band increases grip around the sides of the filter. Band wrenches are often adjustable to fit different size filters.
Chain wrench
A metal chain looped around the filter provides the gripping power for this style wrench. Pulling the handles tightens the chain’s hold. Chain wrenches can also conform to different filter sizes.
Pinch wrench
Pinch-style wrenches have opposing metal flaps that clamp down around the filter from top to bottom when you squeeze the handles. The tension holds it securely for removal.
Socket wrench
This style fits over the end of the filter like a socket. Turning a ratcheting wrench or breaker bar provides leverage to unscrew the filter. Socket wrenches come in different sizes to fit various filters.
Removing stuck oil filters
If you’ve tried unsuccessfully to remove a stubborn, stuck oil filter by hand or with a wrench, don’t get forceful and risk cracking the filter or damaging the engine mounting. Instead, try these tips for removing stuck filters:
– Penetrating oil – Spray penetrating lubricant on the threads and let it soak for 10-15 minutes before attempting removal again. This can help free up a rusted or stuck filter.
– Rubber mallet hits – Light taps around the filter with a rubber mallet can help break the seal. Be careful not to dent or damage the filter.
– Strap wrench – For better grip, try a broad strap wrench wrapped around the filter instead of tong-style wrenches.
– Additional leverage – Use a breaker bar or pipe extension on your wrench or ratchet for added leverage. Take care not to over-stress things.
– Filter puncture tool – As a last resort, a special pointed tool can be hammered through the filter to drain the oil, allowing the filter to then be removed more easily.
With perseverance and the right technique, you can usually remove even the most stubborn stuck oil filters without breaking them or leaving parts behind on the engine mount. Be patient and use plenty of penetrating lube before muscling them off.
Step-by-step oil filter change process
Now that you know what tools are needed – or not needed – here is a step-by-step overview of the complete oil and filter change process from start to finish:
Prep work
1. Park your vehicle on a level surface and apply parking brake.
2. Run engine for 5 minutes to warm up oil – warm oil will drain faster.
3. Gather your new filter, new oil, wrenches, drain pan, rags, jack stands if needed.
4. Locate the oil drain plug and filter under vehicle.
Drain old oil
1. Position drain pan under oil drain plug.
2. Use wrench to loosen plug, turning counterclockwise.
3. Remove drain plug completely once oil begins flowing.
4. Allow oil to fully drain from pan for 10 minutes.
Remove old filter
1. Position drain pan under oil filter area.
2. Use oil filter wrench to loosen old filter, turning counterclockwise.
3. Unscrew filter by hand once loosened, rotating slowly to avoid spills.
4. Allow any residual oil in filter housing to drain.
Replace oil filter
1. Lubricate gasket on new filter with fresh motor oil.
2. Spin new filter onto mount until gasket contacts flush.
3. Tighten filter an additional 2/3 to 3/4 turn by hand.
Replace drain plug
1. Check drain plug for any debris or damage. Replace if needed.
2. Wipe any oil or grime from drain plug area of oil pan.
3. Spin in drain plug by hand until tight, then use wrench to tighten another 1/4 turn.
Refill with new oil
1. Locate oil fill cap on valve cover. Remove cap.
2. Using funnel, slowly pour in new oil amount specified for your vehicle’s engine.
3. Check dipstick to verify oil level has reached full mark after refilling.
4. Replace oil fill cap when finished.
Check for leaks
1. Run engine for 1-2 minutes then re-check oil level on dipstick. Add more if needed.
2. Examine drain plug and filter closely to ensure no leaks are present.
3. Properly dispose of used filter and oil.
4. Reset your vehicle’s oil change reminder light or sticker.
And that’s it – you just successfully completed an oil and filter change to keep your vehicle running at peak efficiency! Proper maintenance like this will extend the longevity of your engine significantly.
Conclusion
Changing your oil filter is usually a simple task that can be accomplished without any special tools in most cases. Just be sure to lubricate the gasket, tighten adequately and double check for leaks. If you encounter a stubborn, stuck filter that won’t budge, a special wrench can provide additional grip and leverage for removal. With some care and effort, you can remove even the tightest filters and avoid cracking or leaving parts behind. Following the step-by-step process outlined above will allow you to safely change your vehicle’s oil and filter correctly. Proper maintenance is key to engine longevity and performance.