The Best Oil Filter Wrenches in 2023

Your car has many important parts that make it run smoothly. The oil filter is one small part that appears idle and looks like it doesn’t do anything, but its job is way more important than you think. It doesn’t make a massive difference for your oil filter if you’re using conventional oil or synthetic motor oil, but it does matter what kind of oil filter wrench you use when changing it.

Without a filter, or with a clogged one, the oil that your car uses won’t be filtered from the dirt and debris that it contains, and this directly affects the car’s engine. This is why regular oil changes are essential, and that’s why you’re going to have a look at a few of the best oil filter wrenches out there today. This is the most important tool you’re going to need for this particular job.

tekton 5866 12 inch oil filter pliers
  • 12” Diameter
  • Three-Position Slip Joint
  • Long Handles
  • Soft Grip
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At the bottom of this guide, you’re going to find out which are the most common types of oil filter wrenches. These Tekton 12” pliers are on that list, and here is why they’re among the best oil filter wrenches around.

First of all, this tool will fit filters that range in sizes between 2-¼” and 4-½”.The slip joint offers three positions for adjustments, so it’s not going to be challenging to adjust to your preferred size whatsoever. One of its best features is that this tool has a very comfortable grip, which means your job will be all the more enjoyable.

They are sturdy enough to handle the typical oil filter and come in the standard and very reasonable price for this type of tool.

Channellock 209 9-Inch Oil Filter & PVC Pliers

One of the Best Oil Filter Wrenches made in USA

channellock 209 9 inch oil filter pvc pliers
  • 9” Diameter
  • 1.75” Jaw Length
  • 1.61” Handle Span
  • 0.42” Joint Thickness
  • Permalock Fastener
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The next one is another pliers-type oil filter removal tool that has similar features to the previous one. These are 9” oil filter and PVC pliers that will get most jobs done without hassle or any trouble. They’re made in the USA, which means you’ll be getting a high-quality tool.

These pliers are all you’re going to need for removing oil filters from anything like cars, trucks, ATV’s, and motorcycles to even garden and lawn equipment. This tool is made out of high carbon steel, and its range of adjustable sizes features the three most common oil filter sizes, including 2-⅝”, 3”, and 3-¾” models.

They come in the same price range as the previous pick and might even offer a few more features and benefits.

Lisle 57010 Import Oil Filter Swivel Wrench

One of the Best Oil Filter Wrenches for Tight Spaces

lisle 57010 import oil filter swivel wrench
  • 2.3” to 2.6” Range
  • Narrow ½” Band
  • Swivel Handle
  • Non-Slip Grip
  • Stainless Steel Band
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Unlike the previous two models, this one is a different type of oil filter wrench. It’s known as a band-type oil filter wrench and is easier to use than it looks. This particular model is the extra small one and will come in handy if your vehicle has a smaller sized oil filter.

Its tough stainless steel band is all you need to make sure the oil filter comes off without any damage being done. This is the difference between the pliers and the band-type ones. The pliers come with a risk of damaging the filter cap if it’s a softer one. This model also features a swivel-gripper handle, which gives you a lot more freedom to work in smaller and less convenient spaces as the handle can turn in a few directions.

It’s no wonder that this is one of the best oil filter wrenches out there as it gives you a lot of freedom, it’s super easy to work with, it’s incredibly affordable, and the list goes on.

WORKPRO 12″ Adjustable Oil Filter Pliers

A Larger Set of Oil Filter Pliers that’s Perfect for Most Jobs

workpro 12 inch adjustable oil filter pliers
  • High Carbon Steel Construction
  • Permalock Fastener
  • Non-Slip Grip
  • 3 Adjustments
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Here is another 12” oil filter pliers pick that comes from a company called WorkPro. This one is among the most affordable choices you’ll find on this list, accompanied by some pretty impressive features.

It has three sets of teeth that grip the oil filter cap and ensure it comes off safely and securely. The material these pliers are made of is high carbon steel, and it’s made sure that there is no bolt or nut failure whatsoever. The part responsible for this is the Permalock fastener. On top of that, this model works best for filters with a 2-¾” to 4-½” diameter.

The handles could be a bit better, but at least there is a soft grip that won’t feel uncomfortable on the hand like some only metal handles out there.

Lisle 63600 Oil Filter Tool

The Best Oil Filter Wrench for Removal Purposes

lisle 63600 oil filter tool
  • Steel Jaws
  • Non-Slip Grip
  • Fits Filters Sized from 2-½” to 3-⅛”
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This is yet another different kind of some of the best oil filter wrenches out there. It’s known as a socket-type oil filter wrench that is made for only removing the oil filter. This one is made to fit most common car filters and removes them like a charm.

It fits filter sizes from 2-½” to 3-⅛” and it features a steel jaw that grips the filter and doesn’t let go like the jaw of a pitbull. This is the type of wrench that has the least chance of slipping, so you can rest comfortably from now on.

There are plenty of features that make this one a great oil filter wrench, and part of the reason is its price. It’s pretty affordable considering what you’re getting, so you don’t even have to think twice about this one.

OEM TOOLS 25101 Adjustable Magnetic Oil Filter Wrench

A Three-Legged Oil Filter Removal Wrench for Pros

oem tools 25101 adjustable magnetic oil filter wrench
  • 3 Legged
  • Steel Construction
  • ⅜” to ½” Drive Adapter
  • Magnetic Attachment
  • Spring-Loaded Legs
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OEM Tools brings you an excellent oil filter wrench that has a few special perks to offer. It has a few features that make it one of the best universal oil filter wrenches you will ever find. Some of these features include the following:

This wrench has a diameter that fits filters between 2.4” and 3.6” wide. It offers a magnetic attachment for added convenience and security. It also comes with an included ⅜” to ½” drive adapter. This universal fit wrench is going to offer some of the best oil changing experiences money can buy.

Considering the low price, you’re getting a steal by considering this choice. It has all you need to get the job done without any hassle and without wasting any time.

Motivx Tools Small Adjustable Oil Filter Wrench

One of the Best Universal Oil Filter Wrenches Ever

motivx tools small adjustable oil filter wrench
  • Nickel-Plated Chromoly Steel Jaws
  • .050” Captured Spring
  • ⅜” Solid Steel Top Plate
  • Universal Fit
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This one is another universal oil filter wrench that is also only used to remove the filter, not installing. This can be a tough job without the right tool that offers a secure grip, and Motivx Tools’ small adjustable oil filter wrench is just the tool for the job.

What you’re looking at is a wrench that is perfectly capable of removing small 2.5” to 3.25” spin-off style filters. Unlike many other average wrenches, this one offers a better .050” spring that doesn’t know the meaning of flimsy or wobbly. Speaking of durability, this wrench’s jaws are made out of nickel-plated Chromoly steel, so there’s no worry about strength and durability with this one.

Its price is perfectly reasonable as you are getting one of the best oil filter wrenches ever. If you need one for only removals, then this is the wrench for you.

GEARWRENCH Heavy-Duty Oil Filter Wrench 2320D

One of the Best Heavy-Duty Oil Filter Wrenches

gearwrench heavy duty oil filter wrench
  • 1.6 Pounds
  • 1-½” Wide Bands
  • Intended for Truck Oil Filters
  • Professional Use
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If you’re someone who doesn’t mess around with their oil filters then here’s an oil filter wrench made for heavy-duty work. This type of wrench is specifically designed for working with truck oil filters, and if you’re someone who does that, then you can’t go wrong with it.

It can be described as an oil filter wrench for more professional use as it has kept its best-seller status for quite a while now and in the past. Keep in mind that this one is not actually made for use with power tools but instead with a ½” square drive tool.

The bands are 1-½” wide, which is enough to make sure it offers all the strength required for the typical jobs it’s intended for. Overall, this is an extremely durable oil filter wrench that’s meant to handle heavy-duty jobs and is relatively inexpensive as well.

Neiko 03421A Two Way Auto-Adjustable Oil Filter Wrench

One of the Easiest-to-Use Oil Filter Wrenches Ever

neiko two way auto adjustable oil filter wrench
  • Fits Any 3/8″ or 1/2″ Drive Ratchet
  • Compact
  • 3-Jaw Design
  • Auto-Adjustable
  • Fits Filters Sized from 2-1/2” to 4”
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If you want one of the easiest ways to remove and install oil filters then Neiko’s two-way auto-adjustable oil filter wrench is the way to go. There are a few reasons why this is one of the best oil filter wrenches out there, and a few of them include the following.

This special wrench features a patented 3-jaw design that can turn both ways. This means you can use it for both removing and installing filters. It also features a universal design, so it’s no doubt going to fit most common oil filters on cars and SUVs.

One of the best features about it is that it can fit in tight places and will hold out for quite a while without getting loose and losing its grip. You get all of this, and more, inside a very acceptable price range.

Motivx Tools Oil Filter Wrench for Toyota, Lexus, and Scion 2.0 To 5.7 Liter

One of the Most Durable Oil Filter Wrenches Ever

motivx tools oil filter wrench for toyota lexus and scion
  • 14 Flutes
  • Black Anodized Finish
  • High-Quality Aluminum Construction
  • 2 Drive Options
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The last on our list is a wrench that’s a bit more specific with what it’s intended for, but it’s still a great choice. This is a tool by Motivx Tools, and it’s specifically made to serve most Toyota cars and a few other compatible ones.

This wrench is a bit unique as it only servers oil filters that have 14 flutes. This description fits most of the mentioned car brands above that feature 2.0 to 5.7-liter engines with a 64mm cartridge style oil filter system. Another feature that makes this wrench so great is that it’s made out of high-quality aluminum, making it much more difficult to crack when under more pressure.

To make sure this oil filter wrench stays by your side for as long as possible, Motivx Tools has added a high-quality black anodized finish, which also prevents corrosion and adds further protection.

How to Choose an Oil Filter Wrench

Before we move any further, let’s make it clear that an oil filter wrench is simply a tool that allows you to easily remove and install an oil filter from a car, truck, or any other type of machine that requires this part. Without an oil filter wrench, this job will be much more difficult, will take quite a while, and in many cases, it will also be impossible to accomplish. So, let’s discuss how you can get the best oil filter wrench to satisfy your specific needs and make sure you never regret your decision.

Oil Filter Wrench Type

Like most tools out there, a few types of this tool exist that serve slightly different purposes. They all do the same main job, but some perform better under specific circumstances. This tool won’t make sure you save more oil like an engine oil stop leak will, but it will make sure changing oil goes much more smoothly from now on.

Oil Filter Pliers

This tool might seem like a standard set of pliers, but they have a few features that make them perfect for most oil filters out there. This type of tool has a few sets of teeth placed at a certain distance from each other, making them grab a few flutes of the oil filter and grip nicely so that the removal or installment will go smoothly and without any damage.

Strap Wrench

This one is also known by the name band-type wrench, and it’s one of the most common oil filter wrenches you will ever find. It’s effortless to work with, and it often comes at very reasonable prices. With this tool, you simply adjust the band around the oil filter and turn. This is one of the most easily-adjustable types, so you’ll rarely have any trouble changing oil with this tool.

Cap Wrench

The Cap Wrench is a unique type of wrench that’s specifically made to fit an oil filter with a specific fluted pattern. In this case, you must make sure the wrench fits the number of flutes on your filter if you want it to work.

Spider Wrench

The last of the most common types of oil filter wrenches is a spider wrench. This tool typically has three adjustable legs that wrap around the filter and grip very firmly. The spider wrench distributes an even amount of power around the filter and makes the job very easy.

Know the Size of Your Filter

This might be obvious, but don’t forget to check what size oil filter your car has. This is not the same in most cases, and you can always get an adjustable oil filter wrench but those, too, can only stretch so far. There are different sized adjustable wrenches as well, so make sure to plan beforehand. Also, keep in mind that oil filters on cars that run on diesel oil are typically slightly larger, so consider this when shopping.

Consider How Much Work Space You Have

The amount of workspace around oil filters in different cars is not always the same. Before getting your wrench, put this into consideration as there are some that fit in tight space and some that don’t.

Determine the Tightness of the Oil Filter

I will mention this again, every oil filter is not the same, as some need to be tightened way more than others. If you have an oil filter that needs to be tightened so much that even Hercules will have a hard time removing it, you need a wrench that can handle the pressure and not break instantly.

Conclusion

These are the basics that you’ll be needing to make sure everything goes smoothly. There are always other things to learn and master, but these are the main things you need to consider before getting an oil filter wrench. Also, plan ahead and get yourself an excellent oil drain pan if you don’t want to make a huge mess when it’s time to change the oil.

About The Author

Stole Trishanski

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