My first oil change on my 08 2.4 was not as easy as I hoped.
I read the How To guide for oil changes (for the 2.2), but I have discovered that with a 2.4 it's not so easy.

The manifold overlaps the filter cap and there is not enough room to get a socket on it. I had to use a crescent wrench to get it loose. There isnt much room and there are wires in the area. I could only turn the thing 1/8 turn, then turn over the wrench and turn again, etc. After I got it off my knuckles were bleeding.
I may have to cut down a socket so it will fit, or get a ratchet wrench.
How do you people get your cap loose?

I used a NAPA 7082 filter. It doesnt snap into the cap as well as the original. I put it together the best I could. I hope it works.

The old filter had plenty of metal shavings in it, some relatively big. I was shocked. Since I've never seen used filter media before, it may be normal after break-in. Did you have shavings in your filter after your first oil change?

One thing I did like was I didnt have to jack the car. I reached under, loosened the plug and let it drain. It drained fast.

I'd appreciate any advice from fellow 2.4 owners on how to make my next oil change easier.

 

Aren't you using an extension attached to the socket?? There should be no problem at all with an extension. This has to be one of the easiest engines going to do an oil change




Goose

 

An extension is useless if the socket will not fit in the space between the manifold and cap.
That's the problem. Not enough room for a socket.

 

I haven't done mine yet so I had to go check my 32 mm socket and you are right, just doesn't quite fit, hits on the manifold. I may order one from Sears. They have one for 10 bucks, which looks real short. KD Tools 32 mm Oil Filter Cap wrench, Sears # 0099642000
model # KD3932.

 

What size socket you using? How high is it? I'm using a 1 1/4 inch socket that is maybe 1 1/2 inches in height...bought it at AutoZone if I remember correctly

Goose

 

My 32mm socket is 1 3/4 inches high. That 1/4 can make a difference.

 

I change my own oil on my 2006 2.4L. It is a bit of a tight squeeze, but should be doable.

My socket is not overly tall. I am able to fully loosen the cap, remove the socket and then lift the cap out.

I think I got my socket at Sears.

 

Just took a right angle grinder to my socket and it is now just under 1 1/2 in high and it fits.

 

There is a special tool made for the 2.2 and 2.4 liter Ecotec engine for the oil filter cap. Set it in place, attach a 3/3 extension and a ratchet, comes off in a couple of seconds. Try your local auto parts store. Also, the cap should be torqued when tightening it. Forget the exact torque spec, maybe 25 inch pounds???

 

25 nm or 18 ft/lb is the torque spec. Same for the oil plug.