Knowing what size oil filter wrench do I need is crucial for efficient vehicle maintenance.
A properly sized facilitates the removal and replacement of an old or clogged filter, allowing the engine to filter its own oil properly. Choosing the wrong size can lead to unnecessary hassles and potential damage.
This article will guide you through the process of determining the right size, exploring various sizes of oil filter wrenches, and providing insights into the maintanance process.
What Size Oil Filter Wrench Do I Need?
For 2 inches-15/16 or 3-5/8 inches oil filters, you’ll require 3 inches to 5/8 inches oil filter wrenches. If the oil filters are large up to 4-1/2 or 5-3/4 inches, you can get larger pliers for them. The size of the oil filter wrench you need depends on the diameter of your car’s oil filter.
Oil Filter Wrench Size Chart:
| Wrench Size (inches) | Filter Diameter (inches) |
|---|---|
| 2-1/2 to 3 | 2.5 to 3.1 |
| 3-1/2 to 3-3/4 | 3.2 to 4 |
| 4 to 4-1/2 | 4.1 to 4.6 |
| 4-3/4 to 5-3/16 | 4.7 to 5.2 |
| 5-1/4 to 5-3/4 | 5.3 to 5.8 |
However, the majority will have at least three sizes, typically labeled “small,” “medium,” and “large.”
The Different Sizes Of Oil Filter Wrenches
The 3/4″
The 3/4″ wrenches only work with standard oil filters with four sides that spin on. They don’t work with the bypass filters that our Ford engines use.
Most of the time, the 5/8″ wrench is too big for the small filter canister on Ford trucks. The 3/4″ is the best size for this car.
If you have a Ford truck or SUV that was made before 1998, it’s likely that your oil filter is in this group.
The 13/16″
The 13/16″ is the next size up. On some of our GM cars, they are used more often.
When compared to a Ford or Dodge, the oil filter canister is usually more square, so they use this larger size more.
This wrench will fit around most filters, even some of the bigger ones, which are also called “High Flow” filters.
The 7/8”
The 7/8″ wrench is next. It can fit around even larger filters, like the ones in our Dodge trucks, and some V8 engines that use them, like our classic Corvettes and the Viper engine.
This size is also used by Fords, but not as often. A 5/8″ or 7/8″ wrench will be needed for many small cars.
The 1-Inch
The 1-inch size is mostly used on engines with larger oil filter canisters, like some of our V6 and V8 engines that have the filters mounted on top of the engine, away from the front.
Some 4.6L, 5.4L, and 6.8L Ford engines and the Buick 3800 series are also good examples.
From the picture, you can see that this wrench is much bigger than the others. This gives it a lot of leverage when you use it on these filters.
The 15/16″
The last size is 15/16″, which is used on most Chrysler products, like our new Hemi trucks and some Dodges with V8, 4.7L V8, and VVT (variable valve timing) engines up to 2011.
It’s not very common, but we’ve put it here in case you ever need one of these wrenches for this type of filter.
What to consider for choosing The Right Oil Filter Wrench?
Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right oil filter wrench:
Size –
The size of the oil filter wrench should match the size of the oil filter you are working with.
Refer to the owner’s manual or consult with a professional mechanic to determine the correct size for your vehicle.
Material –
Oil filter wrenches can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, steel, aluminum, and rubber.
Consider the durability and strength of the material when choosing a wrench.
Grip –
Look for a wrench with a comfortable and secure grip to prevent slipping and injury. Some wrenches have a textured or rubberized grip for better control.
Compatibility –
Check if the oil filter wrench is compatible with your vehicle’s make and model. Some wrenches are designed to work with specific brands or types of filters.
Versatility –
Consider a versatile oil filter wrench that can work with multiple filter sizes and types.
This can be a cost-effective option and save you the hassle of having to buy multiple wrenches.
Ease of Use –
Look for a wrench that is easy to use and maneuver in tight spaces. Some wrenches have adjustable bands or ratcheting mechanisms for easier operation.
Brand and Quality –
Choose a reputable brand and quality wrench to ensure it is reliable and durable for long-term use.
Maintenance Tips for Oil Filter Wrenches
Regular Cleaning and Inspection
After each use, it’s important to wipe down your oil filter wrench to remove oil residue and to inspect it for any wear or damage. Regular cleaning and inspection can greatly extend the life of your tool.
Proper Storage Practices
Proper storage is crucial in maintaining your oil filter wrench’s usability. It should be kept in a dry, cool place to prevent rusting, and it’s important to ensure it’s not under any heavy objects that could warp its shape.
Recognizing When Replacement is Necessary
Despite proper care, an oil filter wrench won’t last forever. Signs that a replacement is necessary include the wrench slipping or failing to grip the oil filter. Forcing a malfunctioning wrench can cause damage to the oil filter, so timely replacement is key.
FAQs about the oil filter wrench
Can I use a universal oil filter wrench on any size filter?
While some universal oil filter wrenches may work on multiple sizes, it’s important to make sure the wrench is compatible with the size and type of oil filter you are working with.
What happens if I use the wrong size oil filter wrench?
Using the wrong size wrench can damage the oil filter or make it difficult to remove, potentially causing leaks or other issues.
It’s important to use the correct size wrench for your oil filter.
What size oil filter wrench do I need for my car?
The size of the oil filter wrench needed for your car can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
Refer to the owner’s manual or consult with a professional mechanic to determine the correct size for your specific car.
Can an oil filter wrench be used for other tasks?
No, oil filter wrenches are specifically designed for removing and installing oil filters and should not be used for other tasks.
Does the material of the oil filter wrench impact its performance?
Yes, the material of an oil filter wrench can affect its durability and strength, with steel variants generally providing better performance and longevity.
Final Thoughts
Now you know the answer to, “what size oil filter wrench do I need?” If you want your vehicle to work properly at all times, the engine needs to be in pristine condition at all times.
One of the ways that this may be ensured is by ensuring that the motor oil is clean and free with the help of the correct wrench.
You are now aware of how to determine the appropriate size for your oil filter.
To ensure that your car continues to function properly, you need regularly replace the oil filter.
