How to Remove a Stuck Oil Filter in the Easiest Way Possible

We occasionally have to deal with an oil filter that refuses to come out of the engine bay. Now we'll show you how to remove a jammed oil filter. 

This issue is more prevalent than you would think, and the most important thing to remember is to keep cool. If you become agitated, you will lose your cool and fail to accomplish your job. 

Fortunately, there are a variety of ways you may do to remove the oil filter. If you are still hesitant or uncomfortable in completing the task yourself after reading this, we recommend that you look up how to find best car garages in Reading online and schedule an appointment with a professional car mechanic to complete the job.

What Exactly is An Oil Filter?

An oil filter is a black cylinder-shaped component that may be found on all cars. A filter insert may be found inside the engine of some older motorbikes. The position of the oil filter is virtually always the same. It is usually found on the front end of the engine, although it can also be found on the bottom of the engine. It is easiest accessed from the front of a vehicle.

The basic idea of an oil filter is rather straightforward. It has a mesh composed of industrial paper with little holes in it. The oil will be pumped and filtered through that mesh. All particles, sludge, and metal pieces will be caught inside the filter as a consequence. Clean oil is put back into the engine, where it may continue to lubricate the engine's moving components. Regardless of size, form, or shape, all oil filters function in the same manner.

The oil filter will eventually lose its filtering abilities. This happens as a result of the microscopic particles and dirt being trapped. When this occurs, the oil filter will not be as effective as it should be. It refers to the engine's failure to adequately filter the oil, resulting in unclean oil circulating throughout the engine. Friction particles will impact moving parts and may cause harm if this occurs.

If you have a clogged oil filter, this could result in an emissions test failure at your next MOT test. We suggest that you search online for reliable MOT centre in Reading who carry out service and repair work to save you time and hassle.

Every oil change necessitates the replacement of an oil filter. It could be included with the kits, or you'll have to buy one separately. Always buy and use an oil filter that the car manufacturer recommends in both circumstances. It guarantees the highest level of filtration and security.

It's also worth noting that if your vehicle has experienced a significant or minor engine failure involving damaged parts and small metal particles, you'll need to change the filter once the problem has been resolved. Otherwise, the particles will block the filter, rendering it ineffective. Furthermore, you risk causing significant engine damage. You'll also need to refill the oil. Keep in mind that if the coolant enters the cylinders due to a head gasket failure, you must first solve the problem before replacing the oil filter and changing the oil. The oil is polluted at the time of failure and will cause much more damage.

The Significance of An Oil Filter

We need to understand the main purpose and necessity of this little item before we can show you how to remove a blocked oil filter. All of the advantages also apply to the cartridge oil filter. So, let's get started.

As the name implies, the oil filter's primary function is to filter oil. It should filter the oil and remove any dirt, metal particles, or debris. All of these things can harm the engine and lead it to fail completely. When you change an oil filter, you ensure that the oil has been thoroughly filtered and that it contains no dirt, soot, or other contaminants. This makes the vehicle considerably safer to drive and eliminates the possibility of a malfunction. If the oil filter is not replaced, the oil will get too "filthy" and cause harm. This occurs when an oil filter becomes clogged over time and is unable to effectively filter the oil.

A appropriate oil filter for your vehicle can also avoid harm in another manner. Metal particles trapped inside a filter will not be able to reach moving parts and cause further harm if your engine experiences a problem involving damaged Engine parts or broken components. Always use the oil filter parameters specified by your car manufacturer for the greatest protection. Always use a high-quality oil filter as well. It's still a reasonable investment, but it'll make a significant impact.

Why Do Oil Filters Become Jammed?

Sometimes an oil filter will become stuck. There are a number of reasons for this, and we'll go through each one. It's vital to note that you shouldn't use a screwdriver to remove the oil filter. Because this material is used to make the metal shell, the oil filter will bend and break, but you will not be able to remove it. Even worse, we now know that a broken oil filter cannot be removed with correct equipment, turning a simple procedure into a disaster. It's exceedingly difficult to remove a crushed oil filter, and you can't drive your car without it.

Anyway, let's look at why oil filters might become stuck at times:

1.     Excessive tightening

To fully comprehend how to remove a blocked oil filter, you must first learn which blunders to avoid. The first and most typical mistake is overtightening the oil filter. You should ideally lubricate the rubber seal and tighten it with your hands only. Then tighten it another 1/3 using the tool, and you're done. It will not leak, but it will be readily removed during the next engine oil change. If you overtighten the rubber seal, it will ultimately turn into a gasket, gluing the oil filter to the housing. In that instance, breaking the seal and removing the oil filter will be extremely tough. Beginners frequently make this error, and you now know how to avoid it.

2.     Not Lubricating the Rubber Seal

Before mounting the oil filter, the rubber seal must be lubricated. This is required for two reasons. The first is to improve the seal between the housing and the oil filter, and the second is to make it simple to remove when necessary. If you've ever tried to remove a jammed oil filter, you're aware of how difficult and time-consuming it can be. You may prevent this from happening by lubricating the rubber seal. When the rubber seal is lubricated, it does not mix in with the metal, therefore it does not bind two surfaces together. This may seem unusual to some of you, but it is something that every mechanic does, and it is highly crucial.

These are the two most prevalent reasons why the oil filter won't come off. It's crucial to understand that oil filters have the same threads as conventional bolts. To remove it, turn it anti-clockwise.

Is It Possible to Replace the Engine Oil Without Replacing the Oil Filter?

Both yes and no. This sort of oil change is possible, but it is not advised. As previously stated, the oil filter will become clogged over time, reducing its ability to filter oil. All of this means that dirty and metal particles will be returned to the engine with the oil, potentially damaging the engine. A new oil filter is unquestionably a worthwhile investment that may help you avoid even more costly breakdowns.