Putting a new oil filter in a car is typically done as part of a regular oil change. It involves removing the old filter and properly installing the new one after the old engine oil has been drained.
Steps to Install a New Oil Filter
Replacing your car's oil filter is a crucial step during an oil change to ensure clean oil circulates through the engine. This process generally follows draining the old engine oil and removing the old filter.
According to common practice, and as suggested by the process described in the reference which involves removing the old oil filter after draining the engine oil, the installation of the new filter is the next step.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
1. Prepare the New Filter
- Locate your new oil filter.
- Open the box and locate the rubber gasket (usually black) around the top edge of the filter.
- Dip your finger in some clean, new engine oil and lightly coat this rubber gasket. This helps create a good seal and prevents the filter from sticking later.
2. Locate and Prepare the Filter Housing
- The old oil filter must be removed first. As the reference shows, this is done after draining the old engine oil by removing the sump pan drain plug and allowing the oil to drain into a container. Once the oil has drained, remove the old oil filter.
- Ensure the mounting surface where the old filter was attached is clean and free of any debris or old gasket material.
3. Install the New Filter
- Carefully align the new oil filter with the threaded post on the engine block or filter housing.
- Begin screwing the filter on by hand. Turn it clockwise.
- Continue turning by hand until the rubber gasket makes contact with the engine's mounting surface.
- Once the gasket touches, tighten the filter by hand for another approximately 1/2 to 3/4 of a turn (consult your car's owner's manual or the new filter's instructions for the exact tightening specification). Do not overtighten with a wrench, as this can damage the filter or the mounting threads, making removal difficult in the future. Hand-tightening is usually sufficient for a proper seal.
4. Add New Oil and Check for Leaks
- After the new filter is securely in place, you can then refill the engine with the correct type and amount of new engine oil via the engine's oil fill cap.
- Start the engine and let it run for a minute or two. Check the area around the new oil filter for any leaks.
- Turn off the engine, wait a few minutes for the oil to settle, and check the oil level on the dipstick, adding more oil if necessary.
Key Takeaway: The primary action for putting in a new oil filter is screwing it onto its mounting location after removing the old one and ensuring the gasket is lubricated for a proper seal.
