What size is the oil filter wrench?
There is no single universal size for an oil filter wrench. For most passenger cars, cap-style wrenches in the 65–76 mm range fit common filters, while larger filters on trucks, SUVs, and some European models may require 86 mm or bigger, or a strap/adjustable wrench.
Common wrench sizes you’ll encounter
The following sizes cover the majority of filters found in everyday cars and light trucks. Use these as a guide and verify against your specific filter before purchasing a tool.
- 65 mm cap wrenches — fits many small to mid-size filters around 64–66 mm in diameter.
- 68 mm cap wrenches — widely used for a broad range of compact and mid-size vehicles.
- 74 mm cap wrenches — common for many mid-size cars and light trucks.
- 76 mm cap wrenches — another frequent size for larger mid-size filters.
- 86 mm cap wrenches — used for bigger canister filters on some SUVs, trucks, and diesel engines.
If your filter is larger than these, you may need a larger cap size or a strap/adjustable wrench to accommodate the diameter.
How to determine the right size for your vehicle
To ensure you have the correct tool, follow these steps to identify the appropriate wrench size for your filter system.
- Check the vehicle’s owner manual or service manual for the specified filter size or wrench requirement.
- Inspect the existing filter or its packaging for the outer diameter or cap size listed.
- Measure the outer diameter of the filter can or the cap diameter with a caliper or ruler at the widest point.
- Choose a cap wrench that matches the measured diameter or select a universal strap wrench if the diameter falls between sizes.
When in doubt, opting for a universal strap wrench or a multi-size cap wrench kit offers flexibility across different makes and models and helps avoid damage to the filter or its housing.
Usage tips and safety considerations
Always ensure the engine is cool and the car is parked on a level surface before removing an oil filter. Have rags ready for spills, and apply steady, even pressure to avoid rounding the filter. If the filter is seized, apply a penetrating oil and wait a few minutes before trying again, using the correct size to prevent tool slippage.
Summary
Oil filter wrench sizing is not one-size-fits-all. Most everyday vehicles use cap wrenches in the 65–76 mm range, with larger filters requiring 86 mm or bigger or a strap-style tool. To be sure, verify the filter’s diameter from the vehicle manual, the filter packaging, or by measuring the filter itself, and consider a universal adjustable option if you service multiple vehicles.
