I was wondering if anyone had any tips as to getting the oil filter off my 04 WRX. I'm used to the usual pain of getting a filter off with my hands but this one is in such an awkward position right behind the whatever that is...heatshield, skidplate, something or other. Anyone have any suggestions? I don't own an oil filter wrench or anything but if I need one I'll go get one. If I need one anyone have a type that works really well? Thanks.


-Danny

 

since it doesnt have a grip u just need to keep going at it, i dont think a oil filter wrench will fit there, just work it, it will come off

 

Are you trying to change your oil with the plastic splashguard in place? If so you're making your life way more difficult than it has to be.

I have a 3-arm wrench from sears...$12 I think. It fits in there fine, and as you turn it the arms tighten on the filter. Since I've been doing my own changes I have only needed it the first time, though, so maybe you could borrow or rent one.

 

What all do I need to take the splash guard off?

 

there's a couple of bolts to take off and about 4-6 of those plastic fasteners that you have to pop the center out and then pry off (details in link)

http://www.scoobymods.com/forums/sho...&threadid=1478

It should only take you a few minutes to take it completely off. The splash guard likes to collect dirt on top so be careful when you take it out. The first time I changed my oil I got a face full of dust and dirt

 

leather gloves are good to give you some extra grip. Definately need to take off the splash gaurd.

 

Yeah, definately take the splashguard off.. Once it's off it's super easy to change the filter.

Try these two links also:

http://www.velozt.com/html/tech_index_in.html
http://www.scoobymods.com/forums/sho...ght=oil+change

Good luck!
-C

 

There are no other way to change the oil but to take the bottom cover out. . . .

4 screws and 4 clips to take it out.. . for the 04 WRX

Then get an angled oil filter wrench

 

for the 03 wrx i dont need to take the splash guard off. i can still reach it fine and take out the filter. The oil filter wrench fits in as well, just a bit tight

 

No need to on the 02's and 03's. Some brain surgeon at Subaru decided to make it more difficult to change the oil on the '04 redesign.

 

Does anyone or can anyone take pics of what an 04's under body looks like. I am curious to see how they changed where the oil filter is. Does this make it better for the car? I have an 03's and it is only difficult for me to change the oil filter because i am 6'1" and have long arms... doesn't help that my car's lowered either..hahaha Takes me at least 5 mins to put on the oil filter...

Thanks,
-Nigel

 

it SHOULD be someone near the oil filter. The oil pan should have a bolt off to the side and you just unscrew it. Since i've never looked underneath an 04 with their redesign i can't give u really specific details.

 

I'm pretty sure they changed the splash guard, and not the oil filter location. No idea why, though.

 

The bolt is right near the filter sort of. Its been a month since I've been under the car but if I remember correctly, from lying underneath the car with your legs facing the front it should be towards the rear and maybe a little left of the filter.