What you need to do before you start
An oil filter replacement takes 10 to 15 minutes and requires only a few tools you likely already own. You will need an oil filter wrench (a metal band tool that costs $8 to $15), a drain pan to catch old oil, a jack and jack stands if your car sits low, and a new filter that matches your vehicle's make and model. Check your owner's manual or ask at an auto parts store for the correct filter number.
Park on level ground, turn off the engine, and let it cool for at least five minutes. A warm engine is safer than a hot one, but you want the oil still warm enough to drain quickly. If your car has an undertray or splash guard, you may need to remove a few bolts to access the filter — check your manual for the location.
Key Takeaways
- Warm the engine for five minutes, then locate the filter underneath or on the side of the engine block.
- Use an oil filter wrench to loosen the old filter by turning it counterclockwise, then unscrew it by hand and let the old oil drain into a pan.
- Clean the rubber gasket surface on the engine with a rag, then hand-tighten the new filter until the rubber gasket touches, then turn it three-quarters of a turn more.
- Check the oil level with the dipstick after the engine cools, top off if needed, and dispose of the old filter at an auto parts store or recycling center.
Locating and accessing the filter
The oil filter is a cylindrical canister about the size of a soda can, usually mounted on the side of the engine block or underneath near the pan. On most cars made after 2000, it is on the side and straightforward to reach. On older vehicles or trucks, it may be underneath, which is why you might need a jack and stands to get clearance.
Once you can see it, position your drain pan directly underneath. The pan should be large enough to hold at least four quarts of oil — a standard 14-inch cake pan works. Tilt the pan slightly toward the filter so oil drains into it rather than onto the ground or your driveway.
Removing the old filter
Slip the oil filter wrench over the filter and turn it counterclockwise until the filter is loose enough to unscrew by hand. Do not use excessive force — the wrench is meant to break the seal, not spin the filter off completely. Once loose, unscrew it the rest of the way by hand, turning slowly so old oil does not splash out.
As you unscrew, tilt the filter toward the drain pan to catch the remaining oil inside. Let it drip for 30 seconds to a minute. The old filter will be hot and slippery, so be careful. Set it aside in the pan or on a rag — do not throw it in the trash. Most auto parts stores take old filters for free when you buy a new one.
Preparing the engine for the new filter
Before you install the new filter, wipe the rubber gasket surface on the engine block with a clean rag. This is the circular metal surface where the old filter was mounted. Any old oil or debris left behind can prevent the new filter from sealing properly, which causes leaks.
Inspect the gasket surface for cracks or damage. If it looks rough or has a lip of old rubber stuck to it, gently scrape it with a plastic scraper or old credit card — never use a metal tool that could gouge the surface. A clean, smooth surface ensures the new filter seals tight.
Installing the new filter
Open the new filter and check that the rubber gasket is attached to the top. It should be a thin, dark rubber ring. Dip your finger in clean engine oil and rub it around the gasket — this helps it seal. Do not use old oil from the drain pan.
Screw the new filter onto the engine by hand, turning clockwise. You will feel resistance as the gasket contacts the metal surface. Once it touches, turn the filter an additional three-quarters of a turn — roughly 270 degrees. This compresses the gasket enough to seal without over-tightening, which can damage the filter or make it impossible to remove next time. Do not use the wrench to tighten; hand-tight is correct.
Checking your work and disposing of the old filter
Start the engine and let it run for 30 seconds, then turn it off and wait two minutes. Check underneath the filter for drips. A small amount of seeping is normal for the first few seconds, but steady dripping means the gasket did not seal — unscrew the filter, clean the surface again, and reinstall it.
Once the engine cools, pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and pull it again to check the oil level. It should be between the minimum and maximum marks. If it is low, add the amount of oil specified in your manual — usually a quart or less. Take the old filter to an auto parts store, a recycling center, or a quick-lube shop; they will dispose of it properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to change the oil when I change the filter?
No. An oil filter change and an oil change are separate tasks. You can replace the filter without draining the oil, though many people do both at the same time because the engine is already warm and accessible. Check your manual for how often each is due.
What if the old filter is stuck and won't loosen?
Tap the wrench gently with a hammer to break the seal, or wrap a rubber band around the filter to improve grip. If it is still stuck, let the engine cool completely and try again — heat can cause the filter to expand slightly. Do not force it hard enough to damage the gasket surface.
Can I reuse the old filter?
No. Oil filters are designed to be replaced, not cleaned and reused. The internal media becomes clogged with particles and cannot be restored. A new filter costs $8 to $20 and is worth the cost for engine protection.
How often should I replace the oil filter?
Most manufacturers recommend every 5,000 to 10,000 miles, though some newer cars go longer. Check your owner's manual for the interval specific to your vehicle. If you drive in dusty conditions or tow, you may need to replace it more often.
What should I do with the old oil that drained out?
Do not pour it down the drain or into the ground. Take it to an auto parts store, quick-lube shop, or hazardous waste collection site. Many stores accept old oil for free, especially if you buy a new filter there.