In most cases, changing the oil is a simple and quick process, but if the oil filter is blocked, this simple task can rapidly become a project.
But what initially causes the oil filter to become clogged? More crucial is how to unclog it after it has been blocked.
We’ll go over three tried-and-true techniques that will remove your oil filter quickly and some installation advice so you don’t need to return for your subsequent oil change.
My oil filter won’t come out; why?
Your oil filter might not come out for one of two reasons.
- First, the filter O-ring can become stuck when you try to remove it if you don’t apply a small layer of fresh oil around it.
- Second, if the oil filter is first installed too tightly, it will suck in much more while the engine is running and be very challenging to remove.
Use just your hands to tighten the new oil filter; if you use a filter wrench or anything similar, it will be difficult to remove the old filter.
These are crucial considerations to remember when removing the old filter, even though there is little you can do to prevent it from happening again.
In which direction should you unscrew an oil filter?
Make sure you are unscrewing the filter and not unintentionally squeezing it before learning how to remove a blocked oil filter and the techniques for doing so.
When examining the oil filter from the circular section, you must spin it counterclockwise to remove it.
Almost any object having threads that allow tightening or loosening falls under the adage “right side tight, left side loose” (as is the case here).
If the filter moves but doesn’t initially become easier to unscrew but instead becomes tighter, it’s the first sign that you’re headed in the wrong direction.
The filter may get stuck if you have been spinning it in the wrong direction, which is unfortunate.
You could believe you would never turn it the wrong way, but it’s not as simple as facing the filter directly when you have to bend down to access it.
How can an oil filter be unclogged?
When you understand that trying to remove the oil filter by hand will not work, it is time to consider your alternative possibilities.
Below, we’ve highlighted the three most effective techniques for clearing a clogged oil filter and specified when you should use each.
1. Use an oil filter wrench
Old oil filters can be easily removed with oil filter wrenches, which are helpful. These tools, which come in various sizes, can be beneficial if your oil filter is difficult to access or needs extra strength.
We’ll go on to our next alternative if your rubber clamp oil filter wrench keeps slipping. You may always add a ring of sandpaper around the interior of the filter wrench for a little extra traction.
2. Remove screws using sandpaper
One of the oldest methods in the book is to wrap sandpaper over the filter if you don’t want to pay money. This method is helpful because it still functions even if the filter is difficult to access.
Additionally, sandpaper is inexpensive and readily available; many individuals already have some on hand.
Sandpaper’s additional grit grips the filter and makes removal simpler. The best of both worlds is yours if you want to perform this technique by hand or with a filter wrench.
3. Hammer and a screwdriver
No matter what you do, the filter occasionally crushes before turning. The only secure method is using a hammer and screwdriver to remove the clogged oil filter.
This isn’t always simple, depending on where the oil filter is located. Also, remember that a mess will result, so have a few oil pans and PIG mats ready.
Straightforwardly drive a long flathead screwdriver through the used oil filter.
Once the screwdriver is through the oil filter, a simple twisting motion should be sufficient to remove the old filter.
To lessen the chance of damaging the old filter, insert the screwdriver as profoundly as you can into it.
Stop what you’re doing and return to using an oil filter wrench, running it as high as you can around the filter if the filter starts to break.
If you can still remove it, you can cut the remaining oil filter off before attempting to remove the remaining portion of the filter using vice grips and a hammer.
However, remember that this won’t be simple either, and so can the filter’s bottom if you have no other option.
