How To Replace A Toyota Oil Filter

Changing the oil and oil filter on a regular basis prevents costly engine damage and improves your engine's performance. Running dirty oil through the engine will damage it in so many different ways. So it's always best to change the oil and replace the oil filter before it completely clogs up. If the filter completely clogs, its bypass valve will send dirty oil to the engine without filtering it.

A good rule of thumb is to change the oil filter every time you change the oil in your Toyota. Rather than pay a shop technician to replace the oil and oil filter for you, why don't you tackle the job yourself? Changing the oil and filter sounds much harder than it really is. It's certainly something you can do yourself, and we'll walk you through the process from start to finish.

What You'll Need

Even though changing the oil and filter is an easy process, you still need to get a few things together before tackling the project. Here's a list of what you'll need first:

• Oil filter wrench (optional)
• The replacement oil filter (we sell genuine OEM oil filters at wholesale prices)
• Drainage pan
• Fresh motor oil
• Old clothes
• Old rags
• Protective gloves and glasses
• Appropriately sized socket or wrench to loosen the drain plug

The Replacement Process

The oil change process is essentially the same across all Toyota models. The location of the oil filter varies between models, though. If you're wondering where the oil filter is located on your Toyota model, you can either check the owner's manual or look online.

The process outlined below is based on the Corolla, but you can follow it with another Toyota model as long as you know where the oil filter is located.

1. Lift the front end of the vehicle and then prop it up with jack stands.
2. Remove the drain plug and let the oil start draining.
3. Find the oil filter under the engine near the front of the vehicle.
4. Remove the oil filter. You can do this with your hand or the oil filter wrench. Be careful because some of the oil may leak out.
5. Wipe down the area to get it ready for the new oil filter.
6. Screw on the new oil filter. It is important to not over-tighten the filter. The correct procedure is to screw on the filter until the o-ring just makes contact. Then, turn the filter by hand 1/4 to 1/2 additional turn.
7. Replace the oil drain plug.
8. Fill the engine with new oil, and wipe off any spills.
9. Start the engine and check for leaks.
10. Properly dispose of the old oil. Any place that sells oil is required by law to accept used oil.

Need any assistance finding the right oil filter for your Toyota or installing it in your car? We're here to help!