Do all vehicles, including cars and SUVs, need to be lifted up on ramps in order to change the oil filter? If not, what is an alternative method for changing the oil filter without lifting the vehicle?
Last Updated: 21.06.2025 08:40
Not every vehicle I’ve owned has needed to be lifted to change the filter. Older ones often had the filter located more accessibly on the front of the engine, and could be replaced by just opening the bonnet (hood in some geographies). But the sump drain plug nearly always needed extra access space provided by jacking. Not everyone bothers, which is why so many sump plugs get rounded off by slipping spanners, and become a massive PITA.
I’ve used a hydraulic trolley jack (+axle stands, usually) for >50years, but if you don’t want to lift the vehicle dig and build a service pit.