How to Replace an Engine Oil Filter?
2 Answers
Steps for replacing the engine oil filter: (1) Remove the drain plug to drain the engine oil. (2) After draining, clean the drain plug. Reinstall the drain plug and tighten it according to specifications, with a tightening torque of 30N·m. (3) Loosen the oil filter using an oil filter wrench. (4) Apply engine oil to the O-ring of the new oil filter. (5) Hand-tighten the new oil filter onto the filter mounting base until the O-ring contacts the mounting surface. Then, use the oil filter wrench to tighten it further. To ensure proper tightening, accurately identify the initial contact point between the filter's O-ring and the mounting surface. (6) After contact with the mounting surface, use the oil filter wrench to tighten the filter an additional 3/4 turn. Tightening torque: 15N·m. Note: Engine oil filters vary, but only high-quality filters can ensure maintenance quality. Therefore, always use genuine, high-quality oil filters. Using non-compliant filters may cause engine oil leaks and contamination. Special reminder: Before installing a new oil filter, always replace the rubber gasket on the cylinder block's filter base.
The first time I changed the oil filter myself last time, I first parked the car on a flat surface and firmly engaged the handbrake for safety. I wore thick gloves for protection and had all the tools ready: an oil filter wrench, a new filter compatible with my car model, new engine oil, and an oil drain pan. I started the car for a few minutes to warm up the oil, then turned off the engine and waited five minutes to prevent burns. Then, I loosened the drain plug with the wrench to let the old oil flow completely into the pan. Next, I removed the old filter with the wrench, being careful of oil leakage, and cleaned the mounting surface after taking it off. I took out the new filter, applied a thin layer of new oil on the rubber gasket to help with sealing and prevent difficulty in removal next time. I aligned and hand-tightened it, then turned it another half-turn without overdoing it to avoid damage. Finally, I added new oil up to the marked level, started the engine for two minutes to check for leaks around the filter, and made sure the oil light was normal before feeling confident the job was done. At first, it felt a bit challenging, but once I understood the process, it became simple—saving money and extending the engine's lifespan.
