Changing your oil filter is an important part of maintaining your car. It helps to keep your engine clean and running smoothly. But if you’ve never done it before, it can be a bit daunting. That’s why we’re here to help. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to remove an oil filter, so you can do it yourself and save some money.
Before you start, you’ll need to gather a few tools. You’ll need an oil filter wrench, a new oil filter, and a funnel. You may also want to wear gloves to protect your hands from the oil. Once you have your tools, you’re ready to get started. First, locate the oil filter. It’s usually located near the bottom of the engine, but it can vary depending on the make and model of your car. Once you’ve found the oil filter, place the oil filter wrench on it and turn it counterclockwise to loosen it. Be careful not to overtighten the wrench, or you could damage the oil filter.
Once the oil filter is loose, you can remove it by hand. Be careful not to spill any oil. Once the oil filter is removed, you can install the new oil filter. Apply a thin layer of oil to the gasket of the new oil filter, and then screw it on by hand until it’s snug. Tighten the oil filter using the oil filter wrench, but be careful not to overtighten it. Finally, add new oil to your engine using the funnel. Check the oil level on the dipstick to make sure it’s at the correct level.
Locating the Oil Filter
Identifying and locating the oil filter in your vehicle is essential before proceeding with its removal. Follow these steps to pinpoint its exact position:
- Park on a level surface and engage the parking brake: Ensure your vehicle is stable and won’t roll while you’re working underneath it.
- Locate the engine oil pan: Crawl under your vehicle and find the flat, metallic pan at the bottom of the engine. This is where the engine oil collects.
- Scan the oil pan for a cylindrical object: Near or attached to the oil pan, you’ll find a cylindrical-shaped object. This is the oil filter, responsible for trapping impurities from the engine oil.
- Inspect the oil filter’s size and shape: Oil filters come in various sizes and shapes, but they typically resemble a metal cylinder with a threaded end.
- Check for a black or gray coloration: Most oil filters are painted black or gray for weather resistance and durability.
The oil filter is typically located in an accessible area near the bottom of the engine, but its exact placement can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Consulting your owner’s manual or referring to online diagrams specific to your car can provide you with additional guidance.
Removing the Old Filter
Once you have located the oil filter, you are ready to remove it. Follow these steps to do so:
- Prepare a clean drain pan. Place the drain pan under the oil filter to catch any oil that may leak out when you remove it.
- Wrap a rag around the oil filter. This will help you to get a good grip on the filter and prevent it from slipping.
- Use an oil filter wrench to loosen the filter. Turn the wrench counterclockwise to loosen the filter. Be careful not to overtighten the wrench, as this could damage the filter or the engine.
- Unscrew the filter by hand. Once the filter is loose, you can unscrew it by hand. Be careful not to drop the filter into the drain pan.
| Tip: If the oil filter is stuck, you can use a penetrating oil to help loosen it. |
Tightening the Oil Filter
Once the oil filter is lubricated and ready to be installed, it’s important to tighten it properly. Here’s how to do it in six steps:
1. Hand-tighten the oil filter until it makes contact with the engine block.
2. Using an oil filter wrench or a large crescent wrench, further tighten the filter by turning it an additional 3/4 to 1 full turn.
3. Check that the oil filter is securely in place and not cross-threaded.
4. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to check for leaks.
5. Turn off the engine and check the oil level using the dipstick.
6. If the oil level is low, add more oil until it reaches the correct level. Here’s a table summarizing the key points of tightening an oil filter:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Hand-tighten the oil filter until it makes contact with the engine block. |
| 2 | Using an oil filter wrench or a large crescent wrench, further tighten the filter by turning it an additional 3/4 to 1 full turn. |
| 3 | Check that the oil filter is securely in place and not cross-threaded. |
| 4 | Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to check for leaks. |
| 5 | Turn off the engine and check the oil level using the dipstick. |
| 6 | If the oil level is low, add more oil until it reaches the correct level. |
Checking for Leaks
Before you remove the oil filter, check for any leaks. Oil leaks can be dangerous and can cause engine damage. To check for leaks, first clean the area around the oil filter with a rag. Then, start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Look for any oil leaks around the oil filter. If you see any leaks, turn off the engine and tighten the oil filter. If the leaks continue, you may need to replace the oil filter.
Here are some tips for checking for leaks:
- Make sure the area around the oil filter is clean before you start checking for leaks.
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.
- Look for any oil leaks around the oil filter.
- If you see any leaks, turn off the engine and tighten the oil filter.
- If the leaks continue, you may need to replace the oil filter.
| Leak | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Oil is leaking from the top of the oil filter | The oil filter is not tightened properly | Tighten the oil filter |
| Oil is leaking from the bottom of the oil filter | The oil filter is damaged | Replace the oil filter |
| Oil is leaking from the side of the oil filter | The oil filter is not seated properly | Reseal the oil filter |
Tools You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following tools:
- Oil filter wrench
- New oil filter
- Oil drain pan
- Funnel
- Gloves
- Rags
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Locate the oil filter. It’s usually near the bottom of the engine, attached to the oil pan.
- Place the oil drain pan under the oil filter.
- Use the oil filter wrench to loosen the oil filter. Turn it counterclockwise until it’s loose.
- Slowly remove the oil filter by hand. Be careful not to spill any oil.
- Inspect the old oil filter for any signs of damage or wear. If you find any, dispose of the filter properly.
- Lubricate the gasket on the new oil filter with a small amount of oil.
- Screw the new oil filter onto the engine by hand.
- Tighten the oil filter using the oil filter wrench. Turn it clockwise until it’s snug.
- Fill the engine with the recommended amount of oil using a funnel.
- Check the oil level using the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary.
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.
- Check for any leaks around the oil filter.
Disposing of the Old Filter Properly
Once you’ve removed the old oil filter, it’s important to dispose of it properly. Pour any remaining oil out of the filter into the oil drain pan. Then, wrap the filter in a plastic bag and place it in your household trash. Do not recycle oil filters.
| Proper Disposal | Improper Disposal |
|---|---|
| Pour remaining oil into oil drain pan | Dumping oil filter in yard or street |
| Wrap filter in plastic bag | Throwing oil filter in dumpster |
| Place in household trash | Composting oil filter |
How To Remove Oil Filter
An oil filter is a device that removes contaminants from engine oil, thereby protecting the engine from wear and tear. Over time, the oil filter will become clogged with contaminants, and it will need to be replaced. Replacing an oil filter is a relatively simple task that can be done in a few minutes.
To remove an oil filter, you will need the following tools:
- A new oil filter
- An oil filter wrench
- An oil pan
Once you have gathered your tools, follow these steps to remove the oil filter:
- Place the oil pan under the oil filter.
- Use the oil filter wrench to loosen the oil filter.
- Unscrew the oil filter by hand.
- Inspect the old oil filter for any signs of damage or wear.
- Apply a thin layer of clean oil to the gasket of the new oil filter.
- Screw the new oil filter onto the engine by hand.
- Tighten the oil filter using the oil filter wrench.
- Dispose of the old oil filter properly.
People Also Ask About How To Remove Oil Filter
How often should I change my oil filter?
You should change your oil filter every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, or as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
What are the signs of a clogged oil filter?
The signs of a clogged oil filter include:
- Decreased engine performance
- Increased oil consumption
- Oil leaks
- Engine knocking
Can I change my oil filter myself?
Yes, you can change your oil filter yourself. However, it is important to follow the steps outlined in this article to ensure that you do not damage your vehicle.
