Best way to remove oil filter from plastic cover?

[vonsworld]

Hello

I've just changed the oil and oil filter on my Citroen Nemo, but had a few problems with the filter.

First of all it's awkward to reach from above with several pipes in the way, but once I removed the plastic filter cover I discovered the paper filter was stuck fast inside the cover. As you will know it is held by a circular ring of clips in the top of the cover.

I've never come across this wonderful design before since my previous cars have always had metal cartridge filters, but I understand this is a common design these days.

Anyway there is a video online showing you how to make a makeshift tool using the centre from a toilet roll, you create a tube to push inside the filter to release the clips. This didn't work for me because as soon as the oily filter touched the cardboard tube it went soft. However I cut up a plastic drinks bottle, made a suitable tube, and after several attempts the filter came loose.

There must surely be an easier way to release the filter, is there a trick I don't know, or a tool designed for this purpose?

Thanks for your advice

[DickieG]

Either take hold of the filter with your hands and give it a sharp pull or insert a screwdriver into the side of the filter and lever it off, works for me every time.

[Ed900]

Pull really hard. Mine was stuck, thought I was going to break it. Think mine had never been changed
I've no idea why they are fitted, probably to make things less DIY!

[Bick]

they can be a pig brute force required - screwdriver good idea or clamp the plastic housing in a vice (cover jaws with rag) and give it a sharp yank

[MikeT]

I don't know what's different with mine but my filters always remain in place, which also causes the oil contents to leak all over my gearbox and everything in between

[RichardW]

Probably the fingers in the lid are broken!

Best to wear gloves when attempting this, or it takes a week to clean the oil off your hands....

[MikeT]

Probably the fingers in the lid are broken!

Best to wear gloves when attempting this, or it takes a week to clean the oil off your hands....

I could see an array of fingers inside it, didn't look broken to me but I'll look closer next oil change.

Although I generally do use latex gloves, I can highly recommend Comma's Manista. I think it was Jim turned me onto it and I haven't looked back!

[Bick]

Dont screw it all the way out Mike until the filter has drained - just about the last thread and you will hear it draining leave to drain - no mess

[MikeT]

Dont screw it all the way out Mike until the filter has drained - just about the last thread and you will hear it draining leave to drain - no mess

Aha, that's the knack is it? Thanks, will remember that and see how it goes. I'll also put a beach towel below it next time, the common rag I used last tme just didn't have a chance

[CitroJim]

I must admit, on my 207 it's never been an issue. Give it a good tug with a gloved hand and it comes out a treat...