What Is a Filter Wrench?
A filter wrench is a specialized tool used to remove oil filters. Oil filters are typically cylindrical and can be difficult to remove by hand. Several types of filter wrenches exist for use in different vehicles. For home oil changes, a filter wrench can be an indispensable tool.
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Types
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Filter wrenches come in three basic types. The first type looks and works like an over sized metal socket. It fits on the end of the filter, which usually has flat indentations. Another type has a flat metal strap that tightens around the filter as force is applied to it. This type may have a handle attached to the strap or may be made to fit a ratchet. The third most common type of filter wrench has a nylon strap with a metal socket-like attachment.
Function
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With the socket type, you select the correct size and fit it onto the end of the filter. Next, you insert a ratchet in the end of the tool, and turn it clockwise until the filter comes off. With the strap types, you fit the strap over the filter and push counter-clockwise with the integrated handle. Alternately, if it fits on a ratchet, you use the ratchet to tighten the strap so the tool gains purchase on the filter through friction. In any case, counter-clockwise rotation removes the filter.
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Benefits
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Despite the fact that manufacturers generally recommend oil filters only be hand-tightened, the filter itself may become tighter over time, due to engine vibration. Oil filters can also become covered in engine oil or grime, which can be slippery and make removal of the filter difficult. Filter wrenches offer a quick and easy way to remove an otherwise stubborn or hard-to-reach filter with ease. This makes home oil changes much easier to perform.
Considerations
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Filter wrenches are not "one size fits all". Oil filters come in a range of sizes, but most sizes are dictated by guidelines from the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). Japanese vehicles and other imports may use a special filter that does not adhere to SAE conventions. The quickest and easiest way to determine if a filter wrench is going to fit is to buy it at an automotive store that sells oil filters for the car or cars it will be used on. It is not unusual to discover that the same filter wrench will not fit similar two cars of different makes or models. Finding out if the filter wrench fits--before taking it home--prevent frustration later.
Prevention/Solution
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Should a filter wrench fail to work because the oil filter has become damaged or crushed in some way, there is an option of last resort. In an emergency, you can push a large screwdriver through the side of the oil filter. The screwdriver should be large enough to completely penetrate the oil filter and come out the other side, and you must take care to ensure that there is adequate room to turn the screwdriver before piercing the filter. Keep in mind that this is a last resort, and a filter wrench is still the best way to remove a filter whenever possible.
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