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Changing the Oil Filter: The Right Way to Do It

Why Is It Important to Change the Oil Filter?

The oil filter ensures that impurities, metal abrasion and residues are filtered out of the engine oil. If it is clogged or dirty, this can have serious consequences:

  • Protection Against Wear: The filter retains particles that could otherwise damage the engine.
  • Better Engine Performance: Clean oil ensures smooth operation.
  • Extended Service Life: Regular changes prevent engine damage and increase the durability of your vehicle.

Tipp: A clogged oil filter can lead to increased oil consumption and even engine damage. It should therefore be changed at regular intervals.

When Should You Change the Oil Filter?

The oil filter should be replaced every time the oil is changed. The replacement intervals vary depending on the vehicle model and usage.

Guide Values for the Change:

  • Every 10,000 – 15,000 km or once a year
  • Frequent short-distance drivers should change the oil filter earlier, as the oil is subjected to greater stress
  • In the event of poor engine running or increased oil consumption

Note: Check your vehicle's operating instructions for the recommended change intervals.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Change the Oil Filter Yourself

What You Need:

  • New oil filter (suitable for your vehicle)
  • Engine oil (follow the manufacturer's recommendation)
  • Oil filter wrench or strap wrench
  • Oil drip tray
  • Rags & gloves
  • Sealing ring (if required)

1. Preparation & Safety

  • Place the vehicle on a level surface and let the engine run for a few minutes – warm oil drains better.
  • Secure the vehicle with a jack or ramps.
  • Put on gloves to protect yourself from hot oil.

2. Altes Öl ablassen

  • Place an oil drip tray under the oil drain plug.
  • Open the screw with a suitable wrench and allow the old oil to drain completely.
  • As soon as the oil has drained, clean the drain plug and reinsert it.

Important: Old oil should not be disposed of with household waste! Dispose of it at a garage or recycling center.

3. Remove the Old Oil Filter

  • The oil filter is usually located on the side or underneath the engine.
  • Use an oil filter wrench to carefully loosen the filter. If it is stuck, a rubber band or a special strap wrench will help.
  • Drain the remaining oil from the filter and dispose of it in an environmentally friendly manner.

Tip: The old filter may still contain oil. Have a cloth ready to avoid soiling.

4. Insert New Oil Filter

  • Check whether the seal of the new oil filter is intact.
  • Coat the seal with a little fresh engine oil – this will make it easier to remove later.
  • Screw in the new filter hand-tight (approx. half to three-quarters of a turn after contact).
  • Do not overtighten! Otherwise the filter could be difficult to remove the next time you change it.

5. Fill in New Engine Oil

  • Fill the new engine oil into the oil filler neck according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Check the oil level with the dipstick – the oil should be between “Min” and “Max”.

6. Start the Engine & Check for Leaks

  • Start the engine and let it run for 1-2 minutes.
  • Check whether oil is leaking (especially at the oil drain plug and the oil filter).
  • Check the oil level again and top up if necessary.

Tip: Make a note of the change date and mileage for the next oil change.

Oil Change Completed? There's a Lot More to Do on a Damaged Vehicle!

If you have purchased a used or damaged vehicle from a Copart online car auction, the oil change is just the beginning. Especially in the case of accident or restoration vehicles, there is often a long list of further work to be done before the vehicle is roadworthy again.

This can include:

  • Mechanical repairs
  • Bodywork work
  • Electronics repairs
  • Fluid and filter changes

A vehicle from a Copart auto auction often offers a cost-effective way to rebuild a project vehicle according to your own ideas.

Looking for a suitable vehicle for your next project?
Take a look at the current vehicle offers on Copart.de!

Conclusion: Changing the Oil Filter – an Important First Step!

Whether you are regularly servicing your vehicle or starting a complete restoration, changing the oil filter is an essential first step.

If you have purchased an accident or restoration project from a Copart auction, the exciting work begins now. From engine servicing to bodywork and electronics – with patience, craftsmanship and the right spare parts, you can get your vehicle back on the road!