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Why an Oil Filter Can Get Stuck
There can be several reasons that an oil filter gets stuck, even if you’re using the right-sized oil filter wrench to try loosening it. It could be because:
- The oil filter was overtightened. It’s extremely common for both DIYers and repair shops to overtighten filters, creating excessive pressure on the threads and gasket surfaces.
- The effects of heat and time. As you drive, the engine’s heat can cause the gasket material to harden or bond with the oil filter housing or the engine block.
- Rust and corrosion. If there’s rust that forms on the oil filter’s threads or on the mounting base, the filter could seize to it.
- The filter was cross–threaded. Improper alignment with the oil filter adapter can cause the filter to be nearly impossible to remove – much harder than it would’ve been to crank it on cross-threaded.
- It’s deformed. If the oil filter has been damaged due to impact or your oil filter wrench has squashed the case, it can make it difficult to grip and unscrew without making it even worse.
- The seal wasn’t lubricated. A dry oil filter seal can make it exponentially more difficult to remove the filter at the next oil change since it grips the metal adapter base firmly.
Fortunately, the oil filter can be removed in a few minutes in most cases, even when it’s stuck or damaged.
How to Remove a Stuck Oil Filter
Although oil filters are typically hand-tightened, you’ll need an oil filter wrench to get it loose. But when it’s not budging, there are a few methods for how to remove a stuck oil filter. Keep in mind that you should always allow the engine to cool sufficiently since there’s a good chance you’ll have dripping oil at some point in the process.
1. Use an Oil Filter Wrench
If you’ve been using a strap wrench, it could be slipping rather than turning the filter, especially if you’re working in a tight space. Instead, use an oil filter wrench that fits snugly on the molded case end, like a socket on a nut. There are a few different sizes available, so make sure the size you pick works for your oil filters. Or, you can use a chain-style oil filter wrench that works like a strap wrench, but with more bite into the case. A 3-jaw claw-style wrench also works well and can be used for various sizes. Once you have the right fit, simply turn the oil filter firmly yet gently to break it loose. You may need to reposition a few times for the right angle, and you can use a long bar or ratchet to gain mechanical advantage.
2. Use Oil Filter Pliers
Try using an oil filter wrench, specifically designed for the job. They have pointy teeth strategically placed to get a grip on the stuck oil filter, and they’re functional for almost any size you have. Place the wrench around the filter and turn counterclockwise to loosen it. Make sure you have a firm grip and apply steady pressure.
3. Puncture and Turn It
If an oil filter wrench fails to get the grip to move it or if it’s stripping the top of the case, an option that’s messier but modestly effective is to punch a hole through the filter to get better leverage. Use a long, flat screwdriver and punch it through the sides 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 punch through a subsequent time before it loosens.
4. Remove the Oil Filter Adapter
If the oil filter won’t remove from the threaded adapter, you may need to remove the oil filter adapter from the engine block to remove the oil filter from it. It can be a relatively small job that takes only a few bolts, or it could be a few hours to remove or so. Follow the repair process for your specific model if it comes down to this step. Then, make sure you install it with a new seal or gasket, and tighten to the correct spec.
Tips to Prevent an Oil Filter from Getting Stuck
To prevent a stuck oil filter when you’re doing an oil change, here are a few practices to follow:
- Clean the mounting surface. Old gasket material or remnants of corrosion can make the gasket grip more firmly than it should. A quick wipe with a shop cloth will suffice.
- Lubricate the seal. Dip your finger in clean engine oil and wipe a thin film on the oil filter seal before installing it. This can help create a better seal while making it easier to remove next time.
- Only hand-tighten the filter. Once you’ve threaded the filter onto the base, tighten until the seal makes contact. Then, tighten another three-quarters to a full turn, still only by hand. Using an oil filter wrench will overtighten it.
When you need parts for your oil change or tools to remove a stuck oil filter, shop at AutoZone. With everything you need to take care of your car, there’s no better place to shop. If the job is too big for you, seek out one of our Preferred Shops to help you do the job.
FAQ/People Also Ask
How do I know if my oil filter is stuck?
If you can’t remove your oil filter with an oil filter wrench, it’s stuck.
Can I drive with a stuck oil filter?
You can drive with a stuck oil filter, yes. However, if you’ve tried to remove it and punctured or squished the case, you’ll need to complete the removal and replacement before you can drive again.
What happens if you don’t change your oil filter?
Oil filters will eventually clog up with debris and sludge from inside the engine and cause a restriction, and it won’t clean your oil.
How do I remove an oil filter without a wrench?
If you don’t have an oil filter wrench, you can punch a screwdriver through the filter and turn it counterclockwise to remove it.
What should I do if my oil filter breaks?
If your oil filter tears or squishes and you can’t remove it easily, the oil filter adapter housing can often be removed so the filter can be taken off on a workbench. Then, you can reinstall it with a new filter.
