How to change oil filter?

Lubrication of the engine is very important, as the destruction of the lubricating film threatens piston seizure. The oil used is not 100% pure and must be filtered. This is where the oil filter comes in, filtering out many dust particles and fine porosities.

Just like the air filter, cabin filter, or fuel filter, the oil filter is a car part that needs to be replaced regularly to keep your engine in good health. Here's how to do it yourself.

What is an oil filter?

All cars, whether gasoline or diesel, have an oil filter. It cleans the engine oil to ensure optimal lubrication while the engine is running. Clean oil reduces friction and prevents premature wear of engine parts.

What types of oil filters are there?

Oil filters can take the form of :  

• A paper cartridge that fits into a bell housing.  
• A metal cartridge containing a screw-in paper filter.  

The operating principle of an oil filter is relatively simple: first, the engine drives a pump that forces pressurized oil through the lower housing into the filter. Next, impurities are retained by the paper filter element, which filters the oil. Finally, the filtered oil passes through the engine's internal circuit and returns to the crankcase.

When should I change my lube filter?

The oil filter should be changed when it no longer performs its function when it becomes too clogged and allows impurities (metal particles, dust, and other combustion residues) to pass through.

The oil filter is changed when the engine is changed to prevent it from clogging the new oil and making the operation less worthwhile. If you don't change it when you change the oil, be sure to replace it before the car reaches 20,000 km, if possible just after the 10,000 km mark. After that, you're taking a big risk. You may also notice that your engine oil light comes on.

How do you change your oil filter?

Step 1: Under your car, you'll find the oil reservoir (sump): Unscrew the drain plug slightly. Place a container under the sump to collect the used oil, then remove the drain plug. Now you're ready to change the filter.

Step 2: Locate the oil filter on your engine block. Once the oil has stopped flowing, unscrew the old filter. An oil filter wrench will help. Alternatively, you can tap the center of the filter with a screwdriver to loosen it. However, this method is messy.

Step 3: There is a rubber gasket between your oil filter and your engine block. If this gasket remains attached, remove it by hand. Otherwise, your new oil filter may not close and leak.

Step 4: Take your new oil filter and put some oil on the new gasket to help it settle and stick. This will make it easier to remove your oil filter the next time.

Step 5: When screwing in the new oil filter, be careful not to damage the filter. Follow the instructions on the package. In general, you should screw the filter in until the rubber gasket touches your engine.

Step 6: Screw the cap back on and pour oil into the tank. Start your engine and verify that the low oil warning light goes out normally.

Can I change the oil filter myself?

As mentioned above, this part must be replaced by a professional. However, you can do it yourself. You'll need some mechanical skills.

Mistakes and potential hazards

There are also a few dangers to watch out for:

• Oil leaks - If you find that the oil is leaking after you've changed it, this indicates that the oil filter or drain plug is not installed properly. It is also possible that the filler plug is not properly installed. Check all bolt connections.
• If the low oil warning light is flashing, don't panic: it usually goes out on its own after a few minutes. If this is not the case, a visit to a garage is recommended.
• A large amount of oil has spilled on the road - The oil collector is not properly seated under the crankcase, or the filter has been unscrewed, creating a dangerous mess.