Having a stuck oil filter can be immensely frustrating, especially when you are in the middle of an oil change.
There are several factors that can result in a stuck oil filter with the most common being over tightening during installation, heat cycling, and corrosion. If you are dealing with a stuck oil filter here’s a complete guide to help you remove it safely and effectively.
Why an Oil Filter Can Get Stuck?
Stuck oil filters can be for several reasons, even considering you are using the appropriately sized oil filter wrench when trying to loosen it. It can be caused by:
- Over-tightened oil filter. For both DIYers and repair shops; overtightening the filters is a very common occurrence and creates excessive pressure to the threads and gasket surfaces.
- Heat cycle and age. The heat cycle from the engine as you drive; can harden or “bond” the gasket material to the oil filter housing or engine block.
- Rust and corrosion. If any rust has formed on the oil filter threads or mounting base; the filter could theoretically become seized to it.
- Cross-threaded oil filter. If the oil filter was inadvertently cross-threaded and the threads were nearly aligned and then only roughly aligned, it will likely be much more difficult to remove.
- Deformed oil filter. If the oil filter has been either impacted or damaged otherwise, or the case has been squashed by the oil filter wrench, it could be too distorted to grip and unscrew without damaging even more.
- No lubrication on seal. If the oil filter seal was dry, a dry oil filter seal can make it substantially more challenging to remove the filter at the next oil change since it will hold tightly to the metal adapter base.
Good news is the oil filter can usually be removed in a few minutes, if it is stuck or damaged in any way it might take a few more.
How to Remove a Stuck Oil Filter
Even though oil filters are usually hand-tightened, an oil filter wrench will be needed to loosen it. But if you find yourself in a situation where it is not going to budge, here are some different methods for how to remove a stuck oil filter.
Just be sure that you allow the engine to cool sufficiently, as you will probably have dripping oil at some point in the process.
#1. Use an Oil Filter Wrench. (Methods-1)
If you were using a strap wrench, it might have been slipping instead of turning the filter, especially in tight spaces. Instead, you could use an oil filter wrench that fits tightly on the molded case end like a socket on a nut. There are several different sizes available at minor variations, so pick a size that fits your oil filters.
Or, you could use a chain style oil filter wrench that functions just like a strap wrench but should bite into the case more when applied. A 3-jaw claw style wrench would also suffice and work for multiple other sizes.
When you find the proper fit, turn the oil filter firmly but gently to break it loose. You may have to reposition a few times for an optimal angle too, and you can also use a long bar or ratchet for mechanical advantage.
#2. Use Oil Filter Pliers. (Methods-2)
Try using an oil filter wrench that is more specialized for the job. Oil filter pliers have pointy teeth positioned to get a grip on the stuck oil filter, and they should be functional for almost any size that you have.
Place the pliers around the filter and then turn it counter clockwise to loosen. Make sure you have a firm grip and apply steady pressure.
#3. Puncture and Turn It. (Methods-3)
If an oil wrench cannot get the grip to move it at all, or it is stripping the top of the case, you have an option that is more messy but can be modestly effective, punch a hole through the filter to gain slightly better leverage.
Use a long metal, flat screwdriver and puncture through the side of the oil filter crosswise.
Then grip the screwdriver and slowly turn it. The metal may crunch or tear, and you may need to reposition or puncture through a second time before it loosens up.
#4. Remove the Oil Filter Adapter. (Methods-4)
If the oil filter will not budge off of the threaded adapter, you may need to remove the oil filter adapter off of the engine block to remove the oil filter off of it.
The process can be a rather simple leg or two of work, that would take only a few bolts. Or it may take a few hours to remove or so; it depends.
If it comes down to this step, then follow the repair process for your model. Then make sure you install it with a new seal or gasket and to spec for tightening.
How to Avoid the Oil Filter from Getting Stuck
- Hand-Tighten Only: When putting on a new oil filter, hand-tighten it. Most filters need about three-quarters of a turn after the gasket touches the engine.
- Lubricate the Gasket: Before installing the new filter, put a film of oil onto the rubber gasket that will contact the engine. This will create a better seal, and the oil filter will be easier to remove after.
- Regular Filters Changes: Change your oil and oil filter according to what is in the owner’s manual. Doing so will limit the chance that the filter has been exposed to constant heat causing it to get stuck.
- Remove the Old Gasket: Make sure to remove the previous gasket before putting on the new filter. A double gasket will cause a leak and make it hard to remove the filter.
- Clean Filter Housing: This is the area on the engine block where the gasket will be contacting the oil filter. Wipe this clean with a rag before the installation of the new filter.
- Use Quality Filters: Purchase quality oil filters from reputable brands. If you use cheaper filters made from lower quality materials, there is a better chance that the gasket will adhere to the engine block.