Oil Filter Housing: What You Need to Know

The oil filter housing is an unsung hero in vehicle maintenance. This often-overlooked component serves a vital function - it houses and protects the oil filter, a critical part responsible for cleaning the engine oil. The housing plays a crucial role in safeguarding your vehicle's engine by shielding the filter and ensuring proper oil flow. Overlooking the importance of the oil filter housing can have serious consequences, potentially allowing contaminants to bypass the filtration system and cause costly damage down the line.

An oil filter housing is a vital part of an internal combustion engine’s lubrication system. It serves as a durable enclosure for the oil filter, which plays a key role in filtering out contaminants from the engine oil. Constructed from either metal or plastic, the oil filter housing is engineered to endure high pressure and extreme temperatures, ensuring the oil filter operates effectively. The filter housing location is usually found on the lower side of the engine. In many vehicles, the oil filter housing is accessible from underneath the car, requiring the vehicle to be lifted or placed on ramps for maintenance. In some models, it can be accessed from the engine bay.

The primary role of the filter housing is to secure the oil filter and provide a sealed environment for it. It connects the filter to the engine's oil flow system, allowing the oil to be filtered and return to the engine clean of debris. This process helps maintain the engine's smooth operation, improves performance, and extends the engine's life.

Several issues can cause oil to leak from the oil filter housing. Here are the primary reasons:

Loose oil filter housing: If the oil filter housing is not securely tightened, oil can escape from the gaps between the housing and the engine block. Regular vibrations and engine operation can gradually loosen the housing, leading to leaks. Ensuring the housing is properly torqued to the manufacturer's specifications can prevent this issue.

Faulty oil filter gasket: The oil filter gasket provides a seal between the oil filter and the housing. If the gasket is damaged, worn out, or improperly seated, it can allow oil to seep out. Replacing the gasket during every oil change and checking its condition can help maintain a proper seal and prevent leaks.

Over-tightened oil filter: Applying too much force when installing the oil filter can crush the gasket, leading to an inadequate seal. Over-tightening can also damage the threads of the filter or housing, creating potential pathways for oil to leak. It's essential to follow the recommended torque specifications to avoid these problems.

Cracked oil filter housing: Physical damage or deterioration can result in a cracked oil filter housing. Such cracks may occur due to impacts, manufacturing flaws, or extended exposure to high temperatures. A cracked housing will lead to oil leaks and must be replaced promptly to avoid further engine damage.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to address an oil filter housing leak

Locating the leak source: The first step is to thoroughly inspect the oil filter housing and surrounding areas to pinpoint the exact source of the leak. Carefully clean any existing oil residue to get a clear view of where the leak originated.

Tightening the housing: If the housing itself is the cause of the leak, use a torque wrench to tighten it back to the manufacturer's recommended specification. It's important to avoid over-tightening, as this could potentially lead to additional problems.

Replace the oil filter gasket: If the gasket is worn or damaged, remove the old oil filter and gasket. Clean the gasket seating area thoroughly and install a new gasket, ensuring it is properly seated.

Check for cracks: Inspect the oil filter housing for any visible cracks. If any are found, the housing will need to be replaced. Cracked housings cannot be repaired effectively and will continue to leak if not replaced.

Avoid over-tightening: When reinstalling the oil filter, follow the recommended torque specifications. Over-tightening can crush the gasket or damage the threads, leading to leaks.

Test for leaks: After performing the necessary fixes, start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check the oil pressure sensor located on the housing to ensure it is reading the proper oil pressure and visually inspect the housing and connections for any signs of oil leakage. 

The total cost of replacing an oil filter housing involves two key factors - part cost and labor cost. For vehicle owners who possess the necessary skills and tools to work on their own cars, the labor costs can be saved by taking on the oil filter housing replacement as a DIY project.

When it comes to sourcing the replacement part, you have two main options to consider - original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts or more affordable aftermarket alternatives. OEM oil filter housings, produced directly by the vehicle's manufacturer, tend to be the more premium and expensive choice. These parts usually range anywhere from $100 to $300 or more. The outstanding advantage of an OEM part is that it is engineered to perfectly match the specific make, model and year of your vehicle, ensuring a seamless fit and integration. 

On the other hand, aftermarket oil filter housings can provide a more cost-effective solution. Generally, online auto parts stores offer high-quality aftermarket housings starting around $50 to $150. While these parts may not carry the OEM brand name, they are engineered to meet the original specifications, providing a reliable and affordable alternative for customers.

A-Premium online parts store is committed to providing customers with exceptional products at ideal prices. On A-Premium, you can buy a quality oil filter housing starting from the lowest price point of $59.99.

If you're in the market for a high-quality, reliable oil filter housing to replace the worn-out component in your vehicle, look no further than A-Premium. Our oil filter housing parts are simply superb - from the materials and design to the overall performance. Made of premium-grade metals, these housings not only exhibit unparalleled durability but also impressive corrosion resistance, ensuring long-term stability and protection for your car's engine. On A-Premium, you can specify your vehicle's Year, Make and Model in our Vehicle Selector tool to find a suitable oil filter housing part to hold and protect your car’s oil filter. Besides, you can enjoy our considerate customer services including free shipping, 90 days free return, 24/7 service, and a 2-year warranty guarantee.