What oil filter your Briggs & Stratton engine needs depends on the model number and engine size
Briggs & Stratton makes hundreds of small engines for lawn mowers, generators, pressure washers, and other outdoor equipment. The oil filter that fits yours is not universal — it depends on which specific engine you own. The model number is stamped on the engine itself, usually on a metal plate near the top or side. Once you have that number, you can find the exact filter in Briggs & Stratton's parts catalog or ask a dealer.
Most residential Briggs & Stratton engines use spin-on filters (the kind you twist off and on) or cartridge filters (a replaceable element inside a housing). Some very small engines have no filter at all and rely on a screen in the oil pan instead. Knowing which type you have matters because the replacement process and the part number are completely different.
You do not need to guess or buy the wrong part. The owner's manual for your equipment lists the correct filter by name and part number. If you do not have the manual, Briggs & Stratton's website has a parts finder tool where you enter your model number and it shows you exactly what filter fits.
Key Takeaways
- Your engine's model number, stamped on the engine itself, determines which oil filter you need — there is no one filter that fits all Briggs & Stratton engines.
- Spin-on filters twist off like a car oil filter, while cartridge filters require you to open a housing and replace the element inside.
- The owner's manual or Briggs & Stratton's online parts finder will show you the correct part number for your specific model.
- Spin-on filters typically cost between $5 and $15, and cartridge filters between $3 and $10, depending on the engine size and where you buy.
How to locate your engine's model number
The model number is printed on a metal or plastic label attached directly to the engine. On lawn mower engines, it is usually on the side of the block, below the air filter or near the fuel tank. On generator and pressure washer engines, check the front or back of the engine housing. The label will show a model number (often starting with numbers like 12, 13, 14, or 15 for common residential sizes), a type number, and sometimes a code number.
Write down the entire model number exactly as it appears. You may also see a serial number on the same label — that is different from the model number and you do not need it for finding a filter. Once you have the model number, go to Briggs & Stratton's official website, click on "Parts & Accessories," and use their parts finder tool. Enter your model number and the tool will show you the oil filter part number, the capacity in ounces, and the recommended oil type.
If the label is worn or missing, you can call a local Briggs & Stratton dealer with a description of your equipment and they can help you identify the engine. Bring a photo of the engine if possible.
Spin-on filters: how to remove and install
A spin-on filter looks like a small metal cylinder with a rubber gasket around the base. It screws onto a threaded port on the engine block, usually near the bottom. To remove it, position a drain pan underneath, then grip the filter firmly and turn it counterclockwise by hand. If it is too tight, wrap a cloth around it for better grip or use an oil filter wrench — a metal band tool that tightens as you turn it.
Once the old filter comes off, wipe the threaded port clean with a dry cloth. Look at the rubber gasket on the new filter — it should be coated with a thin layer of fresh oil. Screw the new filter on by hand until the gasket touches the engine, then turn it another three-quarters of a turn. Do not use a wrench to tighten it; hand-tight is correct. Over-tightening can crack the filter or damage the gasket.
After installation, start the engine and let it run for a minute, then turn it off and wait five minutes. Check the oil level with the dipstick — it should be at the full mark. If it is low, add the correct oil type (your manual specifies whether it is SAE 30, 10W-30, or another grade) until it reaches full. The filter itself holds a small amount of oil, so the level may drop slightly after the first run.
Cartridge filters: how to replace the element
A cartridge filter sits inside a plastic or metal housing bolted to the top of the engine. To access it, unbolt the housing cap (usually one or two bolts) and lift it straight up. Inside you will see a cylindrical paper or foam element. Lift the element out — it may be stuck, so gently rock it side to side as you pull. Discard the old element.
Wipe the inside of the housing with a clean, dry cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Look at the rubber gasket on the bottom of the housing cap — if it is cracked or flattened, replace it. Install the new element by sliding it into the housing, making sure it sits flat on the bottom. The element should fit snugly but not require force.
Place the housing cap back on top and thread the bolts in by hand first, then tighten them firmly with a wrench. Do not over-tighten; you are just sealing the housing, not crushing it. Start the engine and check for leaks around the cap. If oil seeps out, turn off the engine, wait five minutes, and tighten the bolts a bit more.
When to replace your oil filter
Most Briggs & Stratton engines need an oil filter change every 50 to 100 hours of use, depending on the model and operating conditions. If you use your equipment in dusty conditions — mowing a dry lawn, running a generator in a sandy area, or using a pressure washer on a construction site — change the filter more often, around every 50 hours. For normal residential use in cleaner conditions, every 100 hours is usually sufficient.
Your owner's manual will specify the exact interval for your engine. If you do not know how many hours your engine has run, a general rule is to change the filter once per season for light residential use, or every month for frequent or commercial use. Some engines have an hour meter on the equipment itself; if yours does, check it before each use.
Always change the oil filter when you change the oil. The two go together — old oil and a new filter do not work well, and a new oil and an old filter defeats the purpose of changing oil. If you are changing the oil yourself, plan to do the filter at the same time.
Where to buy Briggs & Stratton oil filters
The official Briggs & Stratton website sells filters directly, and you can order by part number. Home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe's stock common filters in their lawn mower section. Tractor supply stores like Tractor Supply Co. carry a wider range of sizes. Online retailers like Amazon also sell Briggs & Stratton filters, though you should verify the part number matches your engine before ordering.
Local lawn mower dealers and small engine repair shops usually have filters in stock and can confirm you have the right one before you buy. This is worth the slightly higher price if you are unsure about the part number. Some dealers will also install the filter for you if you bring the equipment in, though this typically costs $15 to $30 in labor.
Prices vary by retailer and filter type. Spin-on filters generally cost $5 to $15, and cartridge filters $3 to $10. Buying directly from Briggs & Stratton or a dealer may cost a bit more than a big-box store, but you are may provide to have the correct part.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an aftermarket filter instead of a Briggs & Stratton filter?
Yes, as long as the aftermarket filter has the same part number or is rated for your specific engine model. Many manufacturers like Kohler and MTD make compatible filters that work in Briggs & Stratton engines. Check the packaging to confirm it fits your model number. Aftermarket filters are often cheaper and perform just as well as OEM filters.
What do I do with the old oil filter?
Spin-on filters contain oil and should not go in the trash. Take the old filter to a recycling center, an auto parts store (many accept them for free), or a hazardous waste collection event in your area. Cartridge filter elements can usually go in the trash if you have squeezed out the excess oil, but check your local waste guidelines first. Some recycling centers accept them as well.
How do I know if my engine has a spin-on or cartridge filter?
Look at the top of the engine. A spin-on filter is a metal cylinder that sticks out from the side or bottom of the engine block and looks like a small car oil filter. A cartridge filter is a plastic or metal housing bolted to the top of the engine with a cap you can unscrew. If you see neither, your engine may have a screen filter in the oil pan instead, which does not need replacement — just cleaning.
Can I change the oil filter without draining the oil?
Yes. The oil filter and oil change are separate tasks. You can replace the filter without changing the oil, though it is more efficient to do both at the same time. If you are only changing the filter, position the drain pan underneath to catch the small amount of oil that will spill when you remove the old filter.
What happens if I use the wrong oil filter?
Using the wrong filter can cause oil leaks, poor engine performance, or inadequate filtration. If the filter does not fit the threaded port or housing, you will know when ready — it will not screw on or bolt down properly. If you install it anyway, oil will leak out and the engine will lose pressure. Always verify the part number before installation.