The 2018 Camry uses a cartridge-style oil filter mounted on top of the engine

Your 2018 Toyota Camry's oil filter is not the spin-on canister type you might picture. Instead, it's a cartridge filter — a cylindrical element that sits inside a plastic housing on the top of your engine, near the front. This design means you don't unscrew the whole filter; you unscrew the cap, pull out the old filter element, and drop in a new one.

The filter housing is located on the driver's side of the engine, close to where the spark plugs sit. If you're looking at your engine from the front of the car, it's roughly in the middle-upper area. The plastic cap has a wrench size of 86 mm, which is larger than most socket sizes, so you'll likely need a dedicated oil filter socket or a strap wrench to remove it.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2018 Camry has a cartridge-style filter on top of the engine, not a spin-on filter underneath.
  • You will need an 86 mm socket, a strap wrench, or a cartridge filter wrench to remove the plastic cap.
  • Toyota recommends replacing the filter every 10,000 miles or every 12 months, whichever comes first.
  • The correct replacement filter is Toyota part number 04152-YZZA6 or an equivalent aftermarket cartridge filter rated for the Camry.

What filter part number fits your 2018 Camry

The OEM (original equipment manufacturer) filter for the 2018 Camry is Toyota part number 04152-YZZA6. This is the filter Toyota installed at the factory and the one they recommend for replacements. You can order this directly from a Toyota dealer parts department, or you can search for it by part number at auto parts retailers like AutoZone, O'Reilly, NAPA, or Advance Auto Parts.

If you prefer an aftermarket filter, look for cartridge filters specifically rated for the 2018 Camry. Common brands that make compatible filters include Fram, Mobil 1, Bosch, and Mann-Filter. When you search online or in-store, use the year, make, and model — "2018 Toyota Camry cartridge oil filter" — to avoid getting the wrong type. Cartridge filters typically cost between $8 and $20, while the OEM filter usually runs $12 to $18.

Tools and supplies you'll need

Before you start, gather these items: a new cartridge filter, fresh engine oil (check your owner's manual for the correct grade and amount), an oil drain pan, a wrench or socket to remove the filter cap, and paper towels or a shop rag. You may also want jack stands if you need to get under the car to drain the old oil, though the 2018 Camry's drain plug is accessible from above in most cases.

For removing the filter cap, you have three main options. An 86 mm oil filter socket is the most reliable choice — it fits the cap exactly and works with a standard ratchet. A strap wrench (also called a filter wrench) wraps around the cap and gives you leverage; these cost $5 to $15 and work on many filter sizes. A regular adjustable wrench can work in a pinch, but it's straightforward to slip and damage the plastic cap. Do not use pliers or a pipe wrench on the cap itself, as they will crush it.

Step-by-step filter replacement process

Start with a warm engine — not hot enough to burn you, but warm enough that the oil flows easily. Warm oil drains faster and carries out more contaminants. Open the hood and locate the filter housing on top of the engine. Place your oil drain pan underneath it to catch any spillage.

Using your 86 mm socket or strap wrench, turn the cap counterclockwise to loosen it. Once it's loose enough to turn by hand, unscrew it the rest of the way and set it aside. Inside the housing, you'll see the old cartridge filter element. Lift it straight out — it may stick slightly, so wiggle it gently if needed. Inspect the rubber gasket on the underside of the cap; if it's cracked or hardened, replace the cap itself (Toyota part number 15610-0P050).

Wipe the inside of the housing clean with a paper towel to remove any debris or old oil residue. Take your new filter element and coat the rubber gasket on the top with a thin layer of fresh engine oil — this helps create a watertight seal. Drop the new filter into the housing, making sure it sits flat on the bottom. Screw the cap back on by hand first, then tighten it with your wrench. The cap should be snug but not over-tightened; hand-tight plus a quarter turn with the wrench is the standard.

Checking and topping off your oil level

After you've replaced the filter, you'll need to check your oil level and top it off if necessary. Start the engine and let it run for about 30 seconds, then turn it off. Wait a minute for the oil to settle, then pull out the dipstick (located on the driver's side of the engine). Wipe it clean on a paper towel, reinsert it fully, and pull it out again to read the level.

The dipstick has a minimum and maximum mark. Your oil should be at or near the maximum line. If it's low, add the recommended oil type in small amounts — usually a half-quart at a time — and recheck. Do not overfill; too much oil can damage the engine. Once the level is correct, start the engine again and check underneath for any leaks around the filter cap. If you see drips, turn off the engine, let it cool slightly, and tighten the cap a bit more.

Maintenance schedule and when to replace the filter

Toyota recommends changing your oil and filter every 10,000 miles or every 12 months, whichever comes first. If you drive mostly in severe conditions — frequent short trips, towing, dusty environments, or extreme temperatures — Toyota suggests changing it every 5,000 miles instead. Check your owner's manual for the specific recommendation for your driving habits.

Keep a record of when you last changed the filter. Many people write the date and mileage on the new filter cap with a permanent marker before installation, making it straightforward to spot at a glance. Some vehicles have a maintenance reminder light on the dashboard; the 2018 Camry will display an alert when service is due based on your driving patterns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change the oil filter without changing the oil?

Yes, you can replace just the filter. However, since you're already under the hood and the filter replacement only takes a few minutes, many people change both at the same time for convenience. If you're changing the filter alone, you'll still need to check and top off your oil level afterward.

What happens if I over-tighten the filter cap?

Over-tightening can crack the plastic cap or damage the rubber gasket, causing oil leaks. Tighten it by hand until snug, then use your wrench for about a quarter turn more. If you've already over-tightened it, you may need to replace the cap itself (Toyota part 15610-0P050).

Is the OEM filter worth buying instead of an aftermarket one?

Both OEM and quality aftermarket filters work well. The OEM filter is made by Toyota's supplier and is may provide to fit perfectly. Aftermarket filters from reputable brands like Fram or Mobil 1 are usually cheaper and perform similarly. Choose based on your budget and preference.

Where do I dispose of the old oil filter?

Most auto parts stores that sell oil filters will take your old filter for free. Some recycling centers also accept them. Never throw an oil filter in the trash or pour old oil down the drain — both are environmental hazards.