The Best Oil Filter Wrench

We’ve tried many different types of oil filter removal tools over the years including cap-types, gear-driven spider types and strap wrenches. Unless they are suited to a particular filter, these tools can offer various levels of success and frustration.

Lately we’ve been using a plier-type filter wrench and quickly declared it to be the best oil filter removal device we have ever used. These pliers have sharp jaws that allow you to grip filters at awkward angles so you can easily remove those filters that are tucked in or leave little room for other tools such as strap wrenches. The long handles deliver ample leverage to loosen the tightest filters. AMSOIL doesn’t offer an individual plier filter wrench alone but does offer one in the 33 piece Mechanics Lube Kit (G-2200). Plier filter wrenches are available at most any auto parts store. Be sure to check that the pliers open wide enough for the filter you use. The set we purchased fits oil filters from 2″ to 3-3/4″ in diameter. We’ve seen some that fit filters up to 6″ in diameter. As the removal of the oil filter can be a frustrating aspect of an oil change, we hope that the addition of this inexpensive item to your tool box can save some headaches down the road.