A vehicle's oil filter keeps dirt and particles out of the oil so that it stays cleaner and lubricates the engine.Every time you change your oil, be sure to change the oil filter.All you need is an oil pan, a new filter, and some oil to get the job done, if you locate the oil filter on your vehicle's engine block.
Step 1: The oil fill cap should be loosened to allow the oil to drain more easily.
The oil fill cap is a round cover at the top of the engine that covers the hole where you check your oil or pour oil into.To loosen it, twist it counterclockwise.Before you perform this procedure, make sure your vehicle's engine is off.Wait at least 30 minutes to start the procedure if the engine is hot.If the engine is cold, warm it up for a few minutes and then shut it off.
Step 2: The oil drain pan needs to be underneath the oil plug.
The drain plug is a square nut that is located beneath the engine block on the lowest point of the oil pan.It's usually on the side of the oil pan.The drain plug can be found near the engine block, which supplies power to the moving parts of the vehicle.The engine block has a casing attached to it.
Step 3: Remove the oil plug and replace it.
To loosen and remove it, use a square-end wrench.Let the oil trickle out of the pan.This may take a while.Don't forget to replace the oil drain plug.As soon as you remove the plug, be prepared to move your hand away from the oil.Before you put the plug back in, you should replace the gasket on the oil drain plug.This will ensure a tight fit.
Step 4: The metal cylinder is attached to the engine block.
Look on the top, bottom, and sides of the engine to locate the outlet for the filter.The filter is usually black, white, blue, or orange.The model of vehicle affects the location of the oil filter.If you don't know where the oil filter is, check your vehicle's manual.
Step 5: The oil drain pan should be moved underneath the oil filter.
When you remove the filter, you need to catch any oil that goes out.The pan needs to be located below the oil filter.The amount of oil that can be removed from the filter can range from a few drops to 1 liter.
Step 6: The oil filter needs to be removed by hand.
The oil filter needs to be turned clockwise until it comes off.When you remove the filter, be prepared for oil to leak out.Before you take off the oil filter, it is a good idea to put on some work gloves.If you screw off the filter, the leaking oil won't spill on your arm.Many oil filters can be removed completely by hand.They can get stuck on if they are tightened too much or there isn't enough lubrication.
Step 7: If you cannot loosen the oil filter yourself, use a filter wrench.
If the oil filter is stuck on, try to loosen it by hand first, then turn it counterclockwise with a filter wrench.You will be able to screw it off by hand if you get it started.A filter wrench is designed to fit around the oil filters.You can buy filters online or at an auto parts dealer.To loosen the oil filter, place the wrench around it and twist it clockwise.
Step 8: The old filter needs to be put in the oil pan and drained for 24 hours.
Before you can dispose of the old filter, you need to let the oil drain out.After 24 hours, throw it away.You have to recycle the oil at a service station, mechanic shop, or recycling center.
Step 9: The gasket on the oil filter needs to be Lubricated
If you want to cover the rubber ring around the base of the new oil filter, rub some motor oil on your fingers.It will fit with no leaks to the engine block.The gasket from the old filter should not stick to the engine block when you remove it.Refer to the owner's manual for the recommended grade and amount of oil for your vehicle.
Step 10: Attach the filter by hand until you feel it make contact with the block.
The oil filter should stop turning if you spin it clockwise.If you want a new oil filter, you have to screw it on by hand.When you screw on the new filter, only apply gentle pressure.If you apply too much pressure, you can cause damage to the threads that can be expensive to fix.You will get more grip on the new filter if you wear work gloves.
Step 11: The new filter should be tightened 1/3 of a turn.
Give the new filter another partial twist, no more than 1/3 of a twist.Only do this part by hand.Give the oil filter a quarter of a turn more until it is leak-free if you notice it still leaking after you tighten it.
Step 12: The engine needs fresh motor oil.
Place a funnel into the hole after removing the oil fill cap.Refer to your owner's manual to figure out how much oil you need to add.The recommended amount of oil should be poured into the funnel.When you're done, twist the oil fill cap back on.You should use the recommended oil in your owner's manual.Most standard engines will not benefit from putting in more expensive premium oils.