Does anyone know where the oil filter is located? The manual states that the filter is located on the driver side of the engine but I can't find it unless it under the black plastic engine cover.

timz3
Mazda3 Sport GT Titanium Grey

 

yeah i have problem locating the oil filter, the OM said that it requires a special tool from Mazda to remove it.


-PL

 

PL,

Go to this link. The filter appears to be at the back of the engine. Do you know how to remove the plastic engin cover?

http://frankosoft.dynip.com:85/m3q/s...r&back=1&num=3

timz3

 

not sure yet.. if i find out , i'll post the HOWTOs

 

if it's the same as the 2.3L in the 6i it is a cannister filter that only mazda makes right now. It does require a special tool. It's very similar to the newer Ecotec motors in GM cars. The oil cap has to be off then the filter can be loosened from the bottom. once everything is drained you can slide the new filter into the motor (cannister) and cap it off. once this is done THEN you can put oil back in.

 

So the only way for us to change our oil right now is to take it to the Mazda dealership??

 

is it anything like the shortstar engine that was found on the oldsmobile intrigues?

 

northstar?? or the 2.2L Ecotec? It's similar to the ecotec motor.

yes for the 2.3L motor i reccommend going to the dealer. Very few quick lubes will have the filter in stock.

 

the "shortstar" was a modified version of the northstar motor they pretty much lopped off a couple of cyclinders......with those motors it was a cansister as well, but you didn't really require a special wrench you were able to undue it by hand or using one of those rubber strap style oil filter wrenches.

 

When and where will this tool become available. I do all my changes myself and plan to with my M3 after the first free change from the dealer.