Changing engine oil is one of the most straightforward service jobs you can carry out on your car, but the oil filter could sometimes get stuck and seem impossible to remove.
The problem of an oil filter getting stuck is more common than you may think. The first thing you need to know is to stay calm when this happens, as it is the best thing you can do.
Lucky for you, there are many ways to remove a stuck oil filter. In this article, I will teach you how to do so.
What is an Oil Filter?
An oil filter is usually a black cylinder-shaped component found on all vehicles and is designed to remove contaminants from engine oil and transmission oil.
Some bikes used to have oil filters inside their engines. Today, the oil filter is usually located on the bottom part of the engine and, in most cases, on the front end, and the best way to access it is from the front of a car.
Usually, an oil filter should be replaced with every oil change. It may come together with the kits, or you would have to make an additional purchase. Either way, always use oil filters that the car manufacturer recommends, as they ensure the best filtration and safety.
Why Does an Oil Filter Get Stuck?
An oil filter could get stuck sometimes because of several reasons, which I would discuss some such as:
1. Lack of Lubrication of the Rubber Seal
For two reasons, it is very important to lubricate the rubber seal on the oil filter before mounting it.
The first reason is to make a much better seal between the housing and the oil filter, and the second is to remove it when needed quickly. By oiling the rubber seal, you will make removing it easier when needed.
2. Tightened Too Much
When you tighten the oil filter excessively, the rubber seal will eventually become a gasket that glues the oil filter to the housing, making it very difficult to break that seal and remove it when needed.
Beginners usually make this mistake, but the ideal way to install an oil filter is by
- Oiling the rubber seal and tighten it using your hands only.
- You can further use a tool to fasten it tierce.
- It won’t leak and can be removed easily during the following Engine oil Change.
How to Remove a Stuck Oil Filter
Here are a few tested and trusted ways to remove stuck oil filters
1. Oil Filter Pliers Or Chain/Strap Method
The fastest and most conducive process to get rid of a stuck oil filter is by;
- Warm up the engine
- Spray the bottom of the filter with Rust removal (WD-40) before administering a wrench for the removal of the filter,
- Wipe the filter with a rag and fit the cap wrench to the top of the filter
- Then, using a socket wrench, slowly turn the filter anti-clockwise to remove it.
However, there are other ways, such as sometimes it doesn’t matter what you do; the filter will start to crush before it twists off. If this is the case with you, the alternative to removing your filter is to follow the procedure.
2. Use a Screwdriver and a Hammer
This isn’t always easy. Depending on the oil filter’s location, remember that it will make a mess, and you must get a bowl to collect oil leakage from the filter.
Hammer a long flathead screwdriver directly through the old oil filter and turn it once it is through. There should be enough force to pull off the old filter.
Drive the screwdriver through as high as possible on the old filter, as this reduces the risk of the old filter shearing off.
If the above step doesn’t remove the oil filter, you can get a filter wrench, attach it around it, and follow the next step.
3. Oil Filter Cap Wrench With WD-40 Method
This method could be used when the oil filter is difficult to grip or locate. Depending on your choice of oil filter cap wrench.
The first type fits directly on the top of the oil filter, gripping it so it can be loosened, while the second type is used for paper oil filters inside it.
- Firstly, use the cap wrench to get rid of the head of the filter casing
- Get the engine warmed up by driving the car around for some minutes; this will aid in easy filter removal
- Then, spray the base of the oil filter with some WD-40 to help loosen it.
- Wipe down the filter with a rag and fit the cap wrench to the top of the filter.
- Slowly turn the filter anti-clockwise to remove using a socket wrench.
Helpful Tips While Changing Your Oil Filter.
1. Always use An Exact Fit Cap Wrench Filter Tool
Endeavor to get the exact fit for your oil filter; it’s the one that covers the whole without the need for any adjustment. Once your engine is warmed up with a spray, the oil filter won’t hesitate to come off.
2. Do not over-tighten The New Oil Filter
Using a tool while fitting a new oil filter is not advised. Make sure you use your hand to tighten oil filters at the first installation.
If it’s in a tight space and you can’t reach it with your hand, use the tool only to give it one final quarter turn, and then you are done.
3. Always Warm The Engine Before Starting
Try warming up the engine each time before changing it, as this will make the oil flow easier and help break the seal between the oil filter and the engine block.
4. Soak The Base Of The Oil Filter With Penetrant Spray
Make sure you soak oil into the rust remover solution before using any of the above methods to remove it.
Stuck Oil Filter FAQs
Conclusion
Changing a stuck oil filter can be time-consuming, especially if you don’t have a suitable tool. But if you do, you will need just a few minutes to finish.
Remember, an oil filter should be replaced each time you change the oil because it is the most affordable maintenance that significantly affects your car’s engine as it reduces damage and ensures that your vehicle lasts longer.
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