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What can I use instead of an oil filter wrench?

When it comes to changing your vehicle's oil, having the right tools can make the job much easier. One essential tool is the oil filter wrench, which is used to loosen and remove the old oil filter. However, if you don't have an oil filter wrench on hand, there are several alternative methods you can use to get the job done.

Using Household Items as Alternatives

Rubber Strap Wrench: A rubber strap wrench is a simple and effective alternative to an oil filter wrench. Wrap the strap around the oil filter and use the handle to twist and loosen it.

Pliers: If you have a sturdy pair of pliers, you can use them to grip the oil filter and turn it. Make sure to use a rag or cloth to protect the filter from being damaged by the pliers.li>
Adjustable Wrench: An adjustable wrench can also be used to loosen the oil filter, but it may not provide as much grip as a dedicated oil filter wrench.

Socket Wrench: If the oil filter has a hexagonal shape, you can use a socket wrench to remove it. Make sure the socket size matches the filter's dimensions.

These household items can be effective alternatives to an oil filter wrench, but they may not provide as much leverage or grip as a dedicated tool. It's important to use caution and avoid damaging the filter or surrounding components when using these alternatives.

Specialized Tools for Oil Filter Removal

Oil Filter Removal Tool: This is a specialized tool designed specifically for removing oil filters. It typically has a strap or jaws that grip the filter, allowing you to twist and remove it with ease.

Oil Filter Removal Pliers: These pliers are designed with serrated jaws to grip the oil filter securely, making it easier to loosen and remove.li>
Oil Filter Removal Socket: Some oil filters have a hexagonal shape, allowing you to use a specialized socket wrench to remove them. This can be a more secure and efficient option than using a standard socket wrench.li>

While these specialized tools may cost a bit more than household items, they are designed specifically for the task of oil filter removal and can make the job much easier and more efficient.

Conclusion

If you don't have an oil filter wrench on hand, there are several alternative methods you can use to remove your vehicle's oil filter. From household items like rubber straps and pliers to specialized tools like oil filter removal tools and sockets, there are plenty of options to get the job done. Just be sure to use caution and avoid damaging the filter or surrounding components when using these alternatives.

How to make a DIY oil filter wrench?

You can make a DIY oil filter wrench using a strap, a piece of cloth, or an old belt, with methods ranging from simple hand-wrapping to using tools like a pipe wrench or modified socket. For more permanent solutions, you can create a wrench from a deep socket by cutting slots and inserting a strap, or by welding pipe and a strap onto an existing socket.
Simple, temporary methods
This video shows how to make a temporary oil filter wrench using a strap: 48sSukhneet Singh SomalYouTube · Jun 23, 2024

Strap or belt method: Wrap a sturdy strap, like a serpentine belt, or even a strong piece of cloth or rope, around the filter several times. Thread one end through the other to create a loop that tightens as you pull. Use a bar or stick to turn the strap for leverage, or use the strap's tension to twist the filter counterclockwise, as shown in this YouTube video.
Rag and screwdriver: Wrap a rag tightly around the filter for grip. Place the tip of a screwdriver through the rag and against the filter. Twist the screwdriver to turn the filter.
Pliers: Use a pipe wrench or large pliers to grip the filter and turn it counterclockwise, as described on CarParts.com and Reddit.
Thick rubber gloves: Wear thick rubber gloves for extra grip, and then twist the filter with your hands, as detailed in Urb's Garage.

More permanent, DIY solutions

Modified socket wrench: Cut two slots into a deep socket, either with an angle grinder or tin snips. Thread a strap or belt through the slots. This creates a universal wrench that can be tightened onto a filter, with the socket connecting to your ratchet.
Welded socket/pipe: Weld a piece of pipe or a metal plate to an old socket. Cut a slot into the pipe to hold a strap or belt. Use the socket to connect to a ratchet or wrench handle to turn it.
Bicycle chain and pipe: Weld a pipe end cap to a piece of black iron pipe. Attach a section of bicycle chain to the end cap with a bolt. Use a ratchet to twist the pipe, which tightens the chain around the filter, as explained in this Instructables guide.

This video demonstrates how to make a permanent oil filter wrench from a socket and strap: 1mBearBorisYouTube · May 8, 2023

How do you get an oil filter off without a wrench?

You can remove an oil filter without a wrench by using tools like large locking pliers, a long screwdriver hammered through the filter for leverage, or a belt or strong strap wrapped around it for grip.
This video demonstrates how to remove an oil filter using a long screwdriver: 56sExplore BoundYouTube · Jun 21, 2020
Method 1: Locking pliers or channel locks

Place the jaws of the pliers around the filter as close to the base as possible.
Grip the filter tightly.
Twist the pliers counter-clockwise to loosen the filter.

This video shows how to remove an oil filter using a belt: 33sEdBwoyYouTube · Jan 22, 2018
Method 2: Screwdriver through the filter

Warning: This method is messy and will destroy the filter. It should be a last resort and done carefully to avoid puncturing other parts of the engine.
Wear eye protection.
Drive a long, sturdy screwdriver straight through the side of the filter, being careful not to hit the engine block or oil pan.
Use the screwdriver as a lever to twist the filter counter-clockwise.
Once the filter is loose, you can finish unscrewing it by hand.

This video demonstrates how to remove an oil filter using a screwdriver: 35sDIY-timeYouTube · Apr 30, 2024
Method 3: Belt or strap

Find a strong belt or a long, sturdy strap, like a serpentine belt or a strong piece of cloth.
Wrap it around the filter, creating a loop.
Tighten the loop to get a good grip on the filter.
Pull or twist the strap to unscrew the filter counter-clockwise.

You can watch this video to learn how to remove an oil filter using a belt: 14sFlat Rate MechanicYouTube · Oct 7, 2022

Do you actually need an oil filter wrench?

Yes, you often need an oil filter wrench because filters can be difficult to remove by hand, especially after they have been overtightened or if they are in a hard-to-reach spot. While some filters may come off by hand, many require a specialized tool to get the necessary grip and leverage for removal, and using one helps prevent damage to the filter housing.

This video explains why you need an oil filter wrench and the different types available: 1mRepcoYouTube · Dec 20, 2024
Reasons you need an oil filter wrench

Difficulty removing: Oil filters are designed to be only hand-tightened, but they are often overtightened, making them very difficult to remove without a wrench.
Tight spaces: Many modern engine bays have tight, awkward spaces where it is impossible to get a good grip on the filter with just your hands.
Preventing damage: Using a wrench provides a strong, even grip that prevents you from damaging the filter housing, which can happen if you try to use makeshift tools or apply force unevenly.
Different filter types: As vehicles have become more sophisticated, oil filters have come in many different sizes and configurations, and some cartridge-style filters require a special tool to access.
Avoiding frustration: A wrench saves you from the frustration and wasted time of trying to improvise, especially when a filter is seized on tightly.

This video demonstrates different types of oil filter wrenches: 52sYour Home GarageYouTube · Oct 11, 2021
What if I don't have one?

In a pinch, you can use alternatives like a leather belt or a strap wrench to get more leverage.
Some people have successfully used a large pair of slip-joint pliers or even stabbed the filter with a screwdriver to turn it, but these methods are not recommended as they can easily damage the filter housing.

What to use in place of an oil filter wrench?

Use a Strap or Rubber Gloves for Extra Grip
If you're unable to remove the filter by hand, using a strap or rubber gloves can help you apply more torque without the need for an oil filter wrench. Step 1: Wrap a rubber strap or a piece of cloth around the oil filter, making sure it's tight enough to provide leverage.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.