What size socket is the oil filter on a Ford F150?
The Ford F-150 does not use a universal socket size for its oil filter. The correct tool depends on your engine and filter design. Most modern F-150s use a canister-style filter that requires a dedicated 65 mm oil filter cap wrench, while older or certain configurations use a traditional spin-on filter removed with a strap wrench or a standard oil-filter wrench. Always verify the exact tool by checking your engine code or the filter cap itself.
To help you identify the right tool, this article explains the common setups and how to determine the correct socket or cap wrench for your F-150.
Identify your filter type by engine
Use this guide to determine which tool you need.
- Canister-style oil filter (common on modern modular V8s and many EcoBoost configurations): These filters sit inside a housing with a removable cap. The cap is removed with a dedicated oil filter cap wrench sized for the cap diameter, typically around 65 mm on many Ford engines.
- Traditional spin-on oil filter: Uses a standard round filter that screws on the engine; remove with a strap wrench or a standard oil-filter wrench that fits the filter's outer surface.
The exact cap size can vary by year and engine family. Always verify by checking the cap on your actual filter or your vehicle’s service manual.
Recommended tools by configuration
Before you buy tools, confirm the filter type on your F-150. If you can't tell, have the vehicle inspected or reference the factory service documentation. The following list covers typical setups and tools.
- Canister-style filters: 65 mm oil filter cap wrench (Ford-specific) or a compatible aftermarket cap wrench; if unavailable, a strap wrench may work, though it may be slower.
- Spin-on filters: Standard oil filter wrench or strap wrench sized to the filter; no socket size is generally used for removal.
With the right tool, the filter is removed counterclockwise. Reinstall with a light film of oil on the gasket and hand-tighten plus a quarter to a half turn beyond snug, then check for leaks once you run the engine.
Practical tips and safety
Always drain the oil before removing the filter, wear gloves, and place a catch pan under the drain plug. If the filter has space constraints, consider using a filter removal tool with a long handle or a swiveling head to avoid injury or damage to nearby components.
Summary
In short, there is no single socket size for the Ford F-150 oil filter. The tool depends on engine and filter type. Most modern F-150s use a canister-style filter requiring a 65 mm cap wrench; many older models with spin-on filters use a standard oil-filter wrench or strap wrench. Identify your engine, verify the filter type, and choose the appropriate removal tool. When in doubt, consult the owner's manual or the Ford service manual for your exact year and engine code.
