Introduction

This guide instructs users on how to replace the oil filter in a 2013 Chevy Sonic that uses Dexos oil. The oil filter cleans out contaminants within the oil as it flows through the engine system. By replacing this filter, it can continue to effectively keep the oil clean and thus, keep the engine working smoothly.

This should be done every 5000 miles and can often be done while changing the oil.

This process includes using a brake cleaner in order to remove excess oil off of the cap and engine. Brake cleaner can be very dangerous when it comes into contact with eyes, especially with contacts. It is recommended that you use safety glasses while spraying the cleaner. Additionally, the amount of excess oil involved can make this process messy. It is also recommended that you wear latex gloves while completing it.

The oil filter is on the bottom right side near the large silver heat shield. It has a bolt on its cap that is in the shape of a hexagon. Before beginning, make sure that the car is off and the parking brake is engaged.

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    • Pop the hood of the car and prop open with a prop rod.

    • Automotive ramps are not needed and gloves are recommended.

    • Locate the oil filter cap.

    • Place a bucket or drain pan underneath the car, lined up with the location of the filter, to catch excess oil in.

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    • Using a ratchet and 15/16 mm socket, remove the cap for the oil filter.

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    • Carefully remove the cap, letting excess oil drip into the bucket below.

    • The internal rod should remain intact.

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    • Separate the old filter from the cap.

    • Spray down the cap with brake cleaner.

    • Caution: Brake cleaner is dangerous to eyes and contacts. To prevent injury, wear protective safety glasses.

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    • Remove the old O ring (blue plastic ring) from the cap and replace it with a new one.

    • This may not come off easily. You may need to use a screwdriver or pick to remove it.

    • Using your finger, wipe some clean oil onto the new O ring on the cap to lubricate it for easier reinstallment.

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    • Add a new filter either to the cap or directly onto the internal rod in the vehicle.

    • The filter clicks into the cap, but will just rest on the rod.

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    • Reinstall the cap and use a ratchet and socket to tighten it into place.

    • Using the brake cleaner, spray off any excess oil from around the filter.

Conclusion

It is recommended that this is done while changing the oil and/or once every 5000 miles.

Madison Smith

Member since: 21/03/21

178 Reputation

2 comments

Does the internal rod have a spring in the center of it recently changed oil in 2013 sonic and pulled spring and some broken plastic parts out of center of rod you can reach me at cvn300mag@aol.com

Dan foster -

Is this the 1.4l engine or the 1.8l?

Richard Klein -