Using a cartridge oil filter: Simple tips to improve your engines life!

So, the other day I was messing around with my car, you know, the usual weekend warrior stuff. I figured it was time to give my ride a little TLC, starting with an oil change. But this time, I decided to tackle the cartridge oil filter, which is a bit different from your typical spin-on filter.

First off, I popped the hood and took a good look around. I always make sure to check the engine oil every couple of weeks, and I removed the dipstick and wiped it off, because, a clean dipstick is a happy dipstick. My car’s got this plastic housing thingy that holds the filter, usually on top of the engine, easy to spot. Before I got my hands dirty, I made sure I had everything I needed: new filter, fresh oil, a wrench that fits the housing cap, and a bunch of rags ’cause things can get messy.

• Getting Started

• I warmed up the engine for a few minutes. Warm oil flows better, which is what you want when you’re draining it out. Then, I shut it off and let it cool down just a bit so I didn’t burn myself. Safety first, right?

• Draining the Old Oil

• Next, I slid under the car and found the oil drain plug. I positioned my trusty oil pan underneath it, and out came the old, gunky oil. While that was doing its thing, I moved back up top to deal with the filter.

• Replacing the Filter

• I grabbed my wrench and carefully unscrewed the filter housing cap. Inside, there’s the old filter cartridge just sitting there. I pulled it out, and let me tell you, it was grimy. There’s usually a rubber O-ring on the cap that needs to be replaced too, so I made sure to swap that out with a new one from the filter kit.

• Putting It All Back Together

• After popping in the new filter cartridge, I lubed up the new O-ring with a bit of fresh oil and screwed the cap back on. You gotta be careful not to overtighten it; just snug is good enough.

Once the old oil was fully drained, I put the drain plug back in, tightened it up, and then filled the engine with the new oil. Checked the dipstick a couple of times to make sure I got the level just right, started her up, let it run for a bit, and checked for any leaks.

All in all, it wasn’t too bad. Just took some patience and the right tools. Plus, I saved myself a few bucks doing it myself instead of taking it to a shop. And there’s something satisfying about working on your own car, you know?

I also read online about some oil additives like Marvel Mystery Oil and Lucas Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer. But I just used oil and didn’t add anything else.

So, yeah, that’s my little adventure with the cartridge oil filter. If you’re thinking about doing it yourself, just make sure you know what you’re getting into, and take your time. It’s not rocket science, but it’s not exactly like changing a light bulb either. Happy wrenching!