Store bought oil filters don't fit!

[zpcdzty]

This is the first time I tried to replace the oil filter on my 1996 Saturn SL-2 myself. The store catalogs say the filter should be a size 53 or 3614 depending on manufacturer. But after trying two filters I wound up putting the old one back. None of the new filters had a rubber seal as thick as the old one...so they all leaked. Is there a special filter or casket for my Saturn?

[300+]

Is it the first time you've changed a filter on any car.
I've used all sorts of filters over the years and the 3614 from Fram most recently. I have never had a filter leak.
Clean the area around the filter seat. Put oil on the filter seal. Tighten by hand until seated. Then turn 1/2 to 3/4 turn. Nothing special cheap or expensive they all fit. I have experienced filters by some brands having a larger shell that would not fit in the space on a car but never on a Saturn. Try again and look for damage or buy the brand that is on there now and that would eliminate your brand concern.

[sierrap615]

be sure the old gasket isn't stuck on the block

[Jed Rule]

I used the Fram 3600 which is a 1/2 quart larger.
Fits with room to spare on my 93 SL2.

[dw97sc1]

Might sound dumb, but make sure you aren't changing the tranny filter if the car is an auto. looks just like an oil filter.

[sierrap615]

do you speak from experence?

[dw97sc1]

No I can't say I am.

[jodayo]

Isn't the 3600 a basically a ford filter? I know that some filters have multiple applications. I just never heard of that filter being used on a Saturn.

Have you ever had any problems using it on your '93? I've also got a '93, and I'm thinking about using the 3600 now, too. I put a lot of miles on it and it would be kind of nice to know there was a little more filter and oil reserve there.

Thanks,

Jody.