What size is the oil filter socket on a Toyota Camry?
The typical size for removing the oil filter housing cap on modern Camrys with a cartridge-style filter is a 24 mm socket. However, exact sizing can vary by generation and engine, and older Camrys that use a traditional spin-on filter do not require a filter-cap socket at all. This article explains the common sizes and how to identify your specific setup.
Common configurations and tool sizes
The Camry line has evolved across generations, with different filter designs. Here is a concise guide to the typical approach by filter type.
- Cartridge-style oil filter (most Camry engines from mid-2000s to present, including 2AZ-FE, 2AR-FE, 2GR-FE): remove the housing cap with a 24 mm hex socket (preferably a deep socket) and a ratchet or breaker bar.
- Spin-on oil filter (earlier Camry generations): there is no filter-cap to unscrew; use a standard oil-filter wrench on the outer canister to remove the filter.
If you’re unsure about your engine, check the owner’s manual or a repair guide for your exact Camry generation and engine code. The cap size is often stamped on the cap itself, or you can measure the flats of the hex with a ruler or caliper to determine the correct socket size.
Notes for common Camry engines
In practice, Toyota’s current-generation Camry engines that use a cartridge filter typically require a 24 mm cap. This includes many four-cylinder and V6 variants (such as 2AR-FE and 2GR-FE). If you have an older Camry that uses a spin-on filter, you won’t use a socket for the cap; instead, rely on a standard oil-filter wrench on the canister. Always confirm with your specific engine code (for example, 2AR-FE, 2GR-FE) and model year to avoid using the wrong tool.
Summary
The standard oil filter-cap size for most modern Toyota Camry engines with cartridge-style filters is 24 mm. Older Camrys with spin-on filters do not require a cap socket. Always verify with your owner's manual or a trusted service guide for your exact engine code and year, and use the correct tool to avoid damage.
