To install and tighten an oil filter, you turn it clockwise. This follows the universal "righty-tighty, lefty-loosey" principle common for most threaded fasteners, including those found in automotive applications.
Understanding Oil Filter Direction: Righty-Tighty, Lefty-Loosey
The direction an oil filter turns is determined by its threaded design, which is standardized across most vehicles. This standard is best remembered by the mnemonic "righty-tighty, lefty-loosey," meaning:
- Righty-Tighty: Turning a fastener to the right (clockwise) will tighten or install it.
- Lefty-Loosey: Turning a fastener to the left (counterclockwise) will loosen or remove it.
Installing an Oil Filter
When putting a new oil filter on your engine, you will turn it to the right.
- Prepare the new filter: Apply a thin film of clean engine oil to the rubber gasket of the new filter. This helps create a better seal and prevents the gasket from sticking or tearing during installation.
- Hand-tighten: Carefully thread the new filter onto the engine's filter mounting stud. Turn it clockwise by hand until the gasket makes contact with the engine block.
- Final tightening: Once hand-tight, turn the filter an additional 3/4 to one full turn. This final tightening step should typically be done by hand, as overtightening with a wrench can damage the filter, the engine's mounting threads, or make future removal extremely difficult. Always consult your vehicle's service manual for specific tightening instructions.
- Check for leaks: After running the engine briefly, always inspect around the new oil filter for any signs of oil leaks.
Removing an Oil Filter
To take an old oil filter off, you will turn it to the left.
- Locate and prepare: Position a drain pan beneath the oil filter to catch any residual oil that will spill out.
- Turn counterclockwise: Using an appropriate oil filter wrench if necessary (as oil filters can often be screwed on quite tightly), turn the filter counterclockwise to loosen it.
- Remove completely: Continue turning counterclockwise by hand once it's loose enough, allowing the oil to drain into the pan, then carefully remove the filter.
Oil Filter Direction Summary
This table summarizes the direction for common oil filter tasks:
| Action | Direction of Turn | Principle |
|---|---|---|
| Install/Tighten | Clockwise (Right) | Righty-Tighty |
| Remove/Loosen | Counterclockwise (Left) | Lefty-Loosey |
For more detailed instructions on performing an oil change, including proper oil filter handling, refer to reputable automotive maintenance guides or your vehicle's owner's manual. Reliable sources like AutoZone's DIY guides or Advance Auto Parts' how-to articles can provide further assistance.
