Where is the location on a oil filter?
The oil filter is typically mounted to the engine block near the oil pan, but its exact placement varies by make and model. In most cars you’ll find it on the side or bottom of the engine; some newer vehicles use a remote or top-mounted cartridge inside a housing. This article explains where to look for the filter across common designs and how to identify it on your car.
Common locations by engine design
These configurations cover the majority of passenger cars and light trucks.
- Side-mounted spin-on filter on the engine block (common on many older inline engines and some V6/V8s).
- Top-mounted cartridge filter inside a housing on the top of the engine (found on several modern European and Asian engines; the housing may be plastic or metal).
- Bottom-mounted filter near the oil pan (accessible from beneath the vehicle; common on some sedans and trucks).
- Remote-mounted filter with a dedicated housing located at the front or side of the engine, connected by oil lines (often requires a filter wrench plus may have a spill-proof cap).
- Integrated with other components in special configurations (rare, but some engines place the filter within a housing that serves as part of the oil cooling or lubrication system).
Knowing the general layouts helps you start your search, but always check your owner's manual for the exact location and service procedure for your specific make and model.
How to locate the oil filter on your vehicle
To find it on your own, follow these steps to identify its location on your vehicle.
- Park on level ground and wait for the engine to cool to avoid burns from hot oil and components.
- Open the hood and visually inspect the engine bay for a cylindrical can (metal) or a plastic housing that may be labeled “Oil Filter.”
- Check along the sides of the engine block, near the oil pan at the bottom, and at the front of the engine for a filter housing or canister.
- If you don’t see it from above, carefully look underneath the vehicle or consult the service manual, as some filters are mounted low or remotely behind a bumper or near the timing cover.
- Consider the possibility of a cartridge inside a housing; you may need to remove a cap or cover with the correct tool to access the filter itself.
- For newer models or certain brands, use the owner’s manual or a quick reference diagram online for your exact year, make, and model to confirm the precise location.
- If in doubt, contact a mechanic or dealership to confirm the location before attempting to remove components that could be misidentified.
If you still can’t locate it, consult your vehicle’s manual or service diagram, as some remote filters require special access from underneath or behind protective panels.
Safety and maintenance notes
Before you attempt any oil filter work, gather the right tools and follow essential safety steps.
- Eye protection and gloves to prevent contact with hot oil and sharp edges.
- Appropriate filter wrench or pliers for the filter style (spin-on or cartridge housing).
- Oil drain pan to catch used oil, plus rags for cleanup.
- New oil filter and the correct replacement gasket or seal, plus the appropriate type and amount of new oil for your engine.
- Secure jacking points and, if needed, jack stands to safely access filters mounted below the vehicle.
Always dispose of used oil and filters at an authorized recycling facility and follow local regulations for environmental safety.
Summary
The oil filter’s location varies by engine design, with common placements including the side of the engine block, the top of the engine inside a housing, the bottom near the oil pan, or a remote housing mounted elsewhere on the engine. Start by checking the owner’s manual, then inspect the engine bay from above and below as needed. If you’re unsure, seek professional assistance to avoid damage or spills.
