- Oil filter wrench (17 mm or 14-flute/point socket for 2.7L engine; 24 mm for 3.5L engine)
- New oil filter (check owner's manual for the correct size)
- Funnel
- New engine oil (check owner's manual for correct amount and type)
- Oil pan or drain container
Procedure to Locate and Access the Oil Filter:
1. Park your vehicle on a level surface, turn off the engine, and allow it to cool down. Engage the parking brake and ensure that the vehicle is stable before starting.
2. Locate the oil filter housing. In a 2008 Toyota Highlander, the oil filter is usually situated near the bottom front of the engine, close to the oil pan.
2.1. For the 2.7L engine, the oil filter is positioned on the passenger (right) side of the engine, near the bottom.
2.2. For the 3.5L engine, the oil filter can be found on the driver (left) side of the engine, towards the front.
3. Prepare your oil pan or drain container by placing it underneath the oil filter housing. Ensure that it has enough capacity to catch the oil that will drain out during filter replacement.
4. If necessary, remove any skid plates or covers that may obstruct access to the oil filter. Be cautious not to lose any bolts, nuts, or screws during this step.
5. Get ready to remove the oil filter. There are a couple of approaches depending on your engine type:
5.1. 2.7L Engine: Use an oil filter wrench (17 mm) or a 14-flute/point socket to loosen the oil filter from its housing. Turn it counterclockwise (lefty-loosey) to loosen and unscrew it.
5.2. 3.5L Engine: You'll likely need a 24 mm socket or wrench to loosen and remove the oil filter from its housing. Turn counterclockwise to unscrew it.
6. Once the oil filter is loose, allow the oil to drain into the oil pan or container you placed earlier. Be patient and let the oil drain completely.
7. Inspect the oil filter gasket or o-ring left on the housing. Ensure that's it's all removed to avoid leaks. Clean the filter housing surface if necessary.
8. Apply a thin coat of new engine oil onto the gasket or o-ring of the new oil filter before installing it. This helps to lubricate the seal and prevent leaks.
9. Screw the new oil filter into place by turning it clockwise (righty-tighty). Hand-tighten it until snug, but don't over-tighten.
10. Double-check that the oil filter is securely in place. Ensure that it's not cross-threaded or loose.
11. Replace any components, like skid plates or covers, that you may have removed earlier.
12. Add new engine oil to the vehicle as per the instructions provided in your vehicle's owner manual. Use a funnel to ensure a clean pour and avoid spills.
13. Check the oil level by using the dipstick. Ensure the oil level is within the recommended range.
14. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for any oil leaks around the oil filter housing. If there are leaks, re-tighten the oil filter or address any other issues.
15. Turn off the engine, wait a few minutes to let the oil settle down, and re-check the oil level using the dipstick. Adjust if necessary.
16. Properly dispose of the old oil filter and any oil that you have drained. Follow local regulations and recycling practices for responsible waste management.
Note: If you're not comfortable or unfamiliar with any steps mentioned above, consider consulting a professional or experienced mechanic to assist you with the oil filter replacement process.
