2003 Oil filter location

[rieserr]

I am trying to find where they hid the oil filter on my 2003 Camry. I am hoping I don't need to remove the plastic undershield to get to it.

[ToyotaTech]

Yes U do , It is easier for Techs like me to change the oil now!Take it to the dealer it's only 19.95 to get it done and they will dump the oil for u and u will get the factory filter.

[Valk1500]

I have a 2003 Camry 2.4L four cylinder, and the filter is a snap to get to. Do yourself a favor though and get one of the oil filter cap wrench that fit around the end of the filter and you can use a 3/8" rachet and extention, it's much easier. I found one at Wal-Mart cheap and made in USA! mine was the "B" size one they sell, think it was only $3-$5. The factory filters are placed on the engine with 50ft pounds of torque I would swear!

The filter is located on the passenger side just behind the radiator plastic you where mentioning, where it forms a corner. If you just lay down and reach up into this general corner area you will find it, and it points straight down, just make sure the car is not running when your trying to feel where the filter is because the belts and pulleys are just behind this area. I've changed my oil for 28yrs and I had a hard time trying to find the filter too! If you have some ramps, you will be able to see it. That plastic cover your talking about allows just enough room for the filter to get up in there but not enough for you to torque it off with your hand so get the oil filter cap wrench and you'll have no problem with it using a extension and 3/8" rachet.

I do not have to remove any plastic on my 2.4 Liter Camry to change the oil filter.

[dropitby]

He is right the filter is not that hard to get out in fact because its pointing up you can prefill it with clean oil and I put it on hand tight. If you feel your a little weak snug it with a Plier type wrench they sell everywhere.

[Brian R.]

I think they are supposed to be contact tight plus 3/4 of a turn.