How to Replace the Oil Filter on Your Car

There are many things you can do yourself to extend the life of your car and keep it in peak running condition. One of the easiest, and most essential, is changing your oil filter every 3 thousand miles or 3 months. You can add another 2 thousand miles if you're using synthetic motor oil.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• New oil filter
• Pan or bucket
• Oil filter wrench
• Can of motor oil
• Protective gloves
• Goggles

1. Check the location of the old oil filter. You may have to get under the car or remove a wheel to get easy access to the filter in newer cars. In most cases you can find it near the oil pan.
2. Use the filter wrench to remove the old oil filter, turning it counter clockwise. It's advisable to wear gloves and protective goggles during this step.
3. Let the filter drain in a pan or bucket.
4. Clean the oil filter seal surface on the mounting flange or block, making sure all of the residue from the old motor oil is removed. Also make sure the sealing rubber gasket from the old filter is removed from the surface of the filter seat (the area where the new filter will be attached).
5. Apply a small amount of clean oil to the rubber gasket of the new filter. This ensures a tight fit.
6. Install the new filter by hand tightening it, turning it clockwise until it's tight. Do this only by hand, wearing gloves.