What size socket is the oil filter on a 2018 Chevy Trax?

The oil filter housing cap on a 2018 Chevy Trax is typically removed with a 24 mm socket. This applies to the common cartridge-style filter used by the 1.4L turbo engine. Always verify with your vehicle’s service manual or by measuring the cap to confirm the exact size for your VIN.

Understanding the Trax oil filtration system

The Trax uses an internal oil filter cartridge housed in a dedicated cap on the engine. Accessing and replacing the cartridge requires removing the housing cap with the correct socket, and then replacing the filter element and any O-rings before resealing the cap and refilling oil. The exact location and cap design can vary slightly by model year and engine variant, so consult the service manual if you’re unsure.

Direct answer: socket size

For the typical 2018 Trax equipped with the 1.4L turbo engine, use a 24 mm socket to loosen and remove the oil filter housing cap. If the cap doesn’t fit a 24 mm socket, double-check the cap’s flats or consult GM service information for your specific VIN.

Tools and steps to replace the oil filter cartridge

Before you begin, prepare the necessary tools and supplies to safely perform the replacement.

• 24 mm socket (preferably with a deep socket) and a ratchet


• Torque wrench (to follow the service spec, if available)


• New oil filter cartridge and any O-rings/gaskets for the housing cap


• New engine oil and a drain pan


• Funnel, rags, and gloves


• Jack and stands or ramps if you need extra clearance

With the right tools, you can access the housing, replace the cartridge, reseal the cap, fill with fresh oil, and verify there are no leaks after starting the engine.

Step-by-step procedure

Follow these general steps carefully. If you’re not comfortable performing an oil change yourself, consult a professional.

1. Warm up the engine briefly, then park on a level surface and turn off the ignition. Engage the parking brake.


2. Place a drain pan under the engine’s oil pan. Remove the drain plug and allow the old oil to drain completely.


3. Locate the oil filter housing cap on the engine. Use a 24 mm socket to loosen and remove the cap.


4. Take out the old oil filter cartridge. Inspect the housing for any debris and replace the O-ring or gasket on the cap if needed.


5. Install the new cartridge and reseal the housing cap with the new O-ring/gasket. Tighten to the manufacturer’s specified torque (consult the service manual for the exact figure; if unavailable, snug and then give a a light additional turn, but avoid over-tightening).


6. Reconnect the oil drain plug. Refill the engine with the recommended oil capacity and type for your engine.


7. Start the engine and check for leaks around the housing cap and drain plug. Recheck the oil level after a short idle, and top off if necessary.

Note: Always refer to the official service documentation for torque specifications and the exact oil capacity for your vehicle’s VIN and engine variant. If you encounter resistance or the cap does not seat properly, stop and verify compatibility before proceeding.

Where to verify or get help

Because variations can exist between production runs and different trims, the definitive source for the exact socket size and torque spec is the GM service manual for your VIN, or a certified GM service technician. Local GM dealerships, repair shops, or online GM parts databases can confirm the correct cap size and procedure for your specific Trax.

Summary

For a 2018 Chevy Trax with a 1.4L engine, the oil filter housing cap is generally removed with a 24 mm socket. Always confirm with the official service manual for your vehicle’s exact VIN, and follow the recommended steps and torque specifications when replacing the cartridge oil filter. If in doubt, seek professional service to ensure proper sealing and oil cleanliness.

What oil filter does a 2018 Chevy Trax take?

STP Cartridge Engine Oil Filter P981.

What size socket do I need to take off the oil filter?

There is no single oil filter socket size, as it varies by vehicle model. Common sizes include 32mm for GM Ecotec engines, 27mm for some Mercedes-Benz models, and 64mm for Toyota/Lexus vehicles. To find the correct size, check your car's owner's manual or consult an online database, or measure the oil filter yourself if unsure.
 
Common oil filter socket sizes

• 32mm: Often used on GM, Saturn, and Chevrolet Ecotec engines. 
• 27mm: Found on many Mercedes-Benz A-Class and some Ford, Renault, and Nissan models. 
• 64mm: Commonly used for Toyota, Lexus, and Scion vehicles with specific engine types. 
• Other sizes: Many other sizes are available in tool sets, such as 24mm, 29mm, 30mm, and 36mm, for various makes and models. 

How to find the right size

1. Check the owner's manual: This is the most reliable way to confirm the specific filter size for your vehicle. 
2. Look up online: Use your car's make, model, and year to search for the correct oil filter socket size online. 
3. Measure the filter: If you cannot find the information, you can manually measure the outer diameter of the filter housing or look for the size printed on the filter itself. 
4. Use a socket wrench set: If you have a multi-piece oil filter socket wrench set, you can try the various sizes until you find the one that fits your filter cap. 

What size socket is the oil filter on a Chevy Cruze?

The Chevy Cruze oil filter socket size is 24mm for the canister-style filter housing on most gasoline models. However, some later models or aftermarket caps may use a different size, so it's always best to check your owner's manual or verify the socket size before purchasing tools.
 
This video shows how to change the oil on a 2012 Chevy Cruze and includes the 24mm socket in the process: 59sUggaDuggaBoisYouTube · Apr 2, 2022

• Gasoline models: Use a 24mm socket to remove the plastic oil filter cap. 
• Aftermarket/Custom caps: Some aftermarket caps might require a different socket size, such as an 18mm, so check the cap's specifications. 
• Diesel models: Diesel models use a different filter housing that may require a 32mm socket or wrench. 

This video demonstrates the oil change process for a 2016 Chevy Cruze, showing the use of a 24mm socket: 1mHawkeyeSTiGuyYouTube · Jul 28, 2024

What oil filter do I need for a 2018 Chevy Cruze?

A 2018 Chevrolet Cruze typically uses a cartridge-style oil filter, with the ACDelco PF2257G being the original equipment part number. Other compatible options include filters with the part number WIX WL10290, STP S10246, or MicroGard MSL10290.
 
Compatible oil filter part numbers 

• ACDelco: PF2257G
• WIX: WL10290
• STP: S10246
• MicroGard: MSL10290 

Important considerations

• The 2018 Cruze uses a cartridge-style filter, not a spin-on type. 
• Always verify that the filter is compatible with your specific engine size (e.g., 1.4L turbo or 1.6L diesel) by checking the product details before purchasing. You can also check the vehicle's owner's manual for the correct part number or consult a parts store's database.