Changing oil and filter = a MESS!

I own a 2002 Corolla and a 1994 Camry. For many years I have bragged how easy it is to change the oil on the camry since the filter is on the top of the engine. When changing the Camry's filter, you just stuff a rag around the filter to catch any oil that didn't run out of the filter. No Mess! Now, this 2002 Corolla is another story. I have changed the oil twice and had oil all over both times when taking off the filter. It is the worst car I have ever changed the filter on. The oil filter is upside down, so the oil "IN" the filter stays contained when you take it off. Where the heck does all the oil come from? Doesn't that area drain when you drain the oil from the oil pan? This is CRAZY! Should I jack the front of the car higher, since I just raise it high enough to reach the drain plug, and the wheels are still on the ground. Does anyone have any tricks how to remove the oil filter without getting an oil bath?

Any ideas would be appreciated :smooch:
Jackie

All cars will have an oil spillage, to some degree, when removing a filter that's either side or bottom mounted. The oil gallies above the filter have to drain out when removing the filter plus most screw on filters have an anti-drain back valve, which holds oil above them.

Jacking up the car will have no effect but if you take your time you'll have little or no mess.

Many times if you simply loosen the filter enough to dribble oil, it'll simply drain down the side into your pan until the gallies have drained out. Then put a bag around the filter and slowly remove it.

I've done this for 40 years and never had a big mess, if taking my time in doing it.

Many times if you simply loosen the filter enough to dribble oil, it'll simply drain down the side into your pan until the gallies have drained out. Then put a bag around the filter and slowly remove it.



cmhj2000... THANK YOU! This is so simple, and the answer I have been looking for. I feel a little stupid not thinking of it myself! All my life I have rushed to do things, and I really don't know why. Have you ever heard the saying: "The hurrier I go, the behinder I get?" Well, that fits me to a T!!!!!

Thanks again :smooch: ,
Jackie

Oh ya' Been there done that too many times.