An 86mm oil filter wrench is a socket-shaped tool that grips the metal canister of your oil filter so you can unscrew it by hand
The wrench fits over the top or around the side of your oil filter — depending on which type you own — and gives you leverage to turn it. Without one, the filter is nearly impossible to remove by hand alone, especially if it was installed tightly or has been sitting on the engine for months. The "86mm" refers to the diameter of the filter it's designed to grip; filters come in several standard sizes, and 86mm is one of the most common for passenger cars and light trucks.
You use it during an oil change, after you've drained the old oil but before you install the new filter. It's a one-time purchase that lasts for years — the wrench itself doesn't wear out, and you'll reach for it every time you change your oil.
Key Takeaways
- An 86mm wrench fits oil filters with an 86mm diameter and comes in two main styles: a socket wrench that slides over the top, or a band wrench that wraps around the side.
- You need the correct diameter for your vehicle's filter; using the wrong size wastes time and risks damaging the filter or the wrench.
- A wrench costs between $8 and $25 depending on the type and brand, and a single wrench lasts through dozens of oil changes.
- If you don't own a wrench, you can remove a filter by hand using a rubber grip pad, a strap wrench, or by punching a screwdriver through the canister — all slower and messier than using the right tool.
Socket wrenches versus band wrenches
A socket wrench (also called a cartridge wrench or cap wrench) slides down over the top of the filter like a deep socket. You attach it to a ratchet or breaker bar and turn. This style works best if your filter sits on top of the engine where you have room to work above it. It grips the filter firmly and transfers force evenly, so it's less likely to slip or damage the filter.
A band wrench (or strap wrench) wraps around the side of the filter like a belt. You pull the strap tight and turn the handle. This style works in tight spaces where a socket won't fit, such as when the filter sits low on the engine block or close to the frame. Band wrenches are more forgiving if your filter is an unusual shape, but they require more hand strength and can slip if the filter is very oily.
Check your vehicle's manual or look at where your filter sits before you buy. If you have room to work from above, a socket wrench is faster and more reliable. If your filter is tucked underneath or to the side, a band wrench is often the only option that fits.
How to know if 86mm is the right size for your vehicle
The only reliable way to know is to look at your current filter or check your vehicle's manual. If you're changing oil for the first time, locate the filter on your engine — it's a metal cylinder about the size of a soda can — and measure its diameter across the widest part. An 86mm filter is roughly 3.4 inches wide.
You can also search online for your vehicle's year, make, and model plus "oil filter size." Most auto parts websites list the correct filter diameter when you enter your vehicle information. Common sizes are 76mm, 86mm, and 90mm; if your filter is a different size, you'll need a wrench that matches.
Buying the wrong size wastes money and time. A wrench that's too small won't grip the filter, and one that's too large will slip or damage the filter canister. If you're unsure, bring your old filter to an auto parts store and ask them to measure it.
Where to buy an 86mm oil filter wrench
Auto parts stores like AutoZone, O'Reilly, NAPA, and Advance Auto Parts stock 86mm wrenches in both socket and band styles. You can also find them online through Amazon, eBay, or directly from tool manufacturers. Prices range from about $8 for a basic band wrench to $25 for a heavy-duty socket wrench with a ratchet attachment.
If you're buying in person, bring your old filter or a photo of it so the staff can confirm the size. If you're ordering online, double-check the product description to make sure it says 86mm and shows the style you need. Some listings are vague or list multiple sizes, so read the details carefully.
What to do if you don't have a wrench
If you're in the middle of an oil change and don't have the right wrench, you have a few options, though none are as quick or clean as using the correct tool. A rubber grip pad (the kind used for opening jars) gives you enough traction to turn the filter by hand if it's not too tight. A strap wrench works on any filter size, so it's a good backup to keep in your toolbox even if you own a socket wrench.
Some people punch a screwdriver through the side of the filter canister and use it as a lever to turn the filter. This works, but it punctures the canister and makes a mess of old oil. It's a last resort if you're stranded and have no other option.
The fastest solution is to buy the correct wrench before you start. It costs less than $20 and saves you time and frustration on every oil change you do.
Caring for your oil filter wrench
An 86mm wrench requires almost no maintenance. After each use, wipe off any oil with a rag or paper towel so it doesn't get slippery. Store it in a dry place — a toolbox, garage shelf, or pegboard — where it won't rust. If you use a socket wrench, keep it with your other sockets so you don't lose it.
A wrench can last for decades if you treat it normally. The only way to damage one is to use it on the wrong size filter (which can bend the socket or strap) or to drop it repeatedly. If your wrench stops gripping firmly, you can usually tighten the internal mechanism or replace a worn strap, but most people just buy a new one since they're inexpensive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an 86mm wrench on a different size filter?
No. A wrench that's too small won't fit over the filter, and one that's too large will slip and can damage both the filter and the wrench. Always match the wrench size to your filter size. If you own multiple vehicles with different filter sizes, you'll need a wrench for each size, or you can buy an adjustable band wrench that works on several sizes.
Is a socket wrench or band wrench better?
A socket wrench is faster and grips more firmly, so it's the better choice if your filter sits on top of the engine. A band wrench is more versatile and works in tight spaces, so it's better if your filter is tucked underneath or to the side. Many people own both and use whichever fits their vehicle.
What happens if I overtighten the filter with the wrench?
If you turn too hard, you can crack the filter canister or strip the threads where it screws onto the engine. Tighten the filter by hand until it's snug, then use the wrench to turn it an additional three-quarter turn. That's enough to seal it without damaging it. When you remove it next time, the wrench will turn it easily.
Do I need a wrench if I take my car to a shop for oil changes?
No. A shop has professional tools and does this work every day, so you only need a wrench if you change your own oil. If you plan to do your own oil changes, buying one is worth the small cost.