A simple as it looks, an oil filter is not that simple to change and the process has various steps that have to be followed to ensure that it is done in the correct way. Without following the laid out procedure, one is likely to cause damage to the device or its surrounding components. When beginning the process of changing an oil filter, the device has to first be located and it is situated near the engine oil pan. The oil filter is then removed by unscrewing it counter clockwise using an appropriate locking wrench.  It is important to use gloves as well as protective eyewear for this procedure. Once the oil filter is safely out, the oil that is inside it should be let to drain out into the oil catch pan. After this, the filter seal surface should be cleaned and the sealing gasket for the used filter should be removed from the surface on which the filter seat is mounted.

A small amount of oil should be applied onto the new filter’s rubber gasket. The new filter can then be screwed clockwise by hand, until a point when it is tightly secure in place. Once this is done, the plug for oil pan drain should be detached using a wrench while keeping ready for it to be dislodged. It is recommended to use the completed or boxed end of the wrench so that the drain pug is not rounded.  This procedure can also be done with a socket wrench. Once the plug is dislodged, the sealing washer should be inspected for wear and tear. In case it is worn out or broken then a replacement is needed. The oil should then be let to completely then replace it securely and then wipe it clean. Note that the plug should not be too secured too tightly rather it should just fit snugly.

When the oil filter has been replaced and all the engine oil drained, motor oil should be added in the fill port which is situated on the valve cover of the car engine and is usually clearly marked.  If the port is in a difficult place to reach then a funnel may be used to lead the oil in.  Approximately, four quartz should be poured in the engine and the cap replaced. The cart should then be run for a duration of about one minute and then shut off. The vehicle should then stand for about two minutes for all the oil to settle and the oil level checked using the dip stick. Make sure that the oil is at the required point on the indicator. If more oil is needed it should be added at this point.

The clarity of the oil should also be observed, and if the oil has a light tint then the car is fine but if it has a dark color like coca cola the vehicle may need servicing. If a car has a defective oil filter, then the car is likely to get carbon particles within the engine and cause malfunction. It is vital to change the oil filter from time to time to ensure the car functions as required.

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Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - How to Change an Oil Filter