I'm a new owner of an 04 6spd. Reading the manual it states that a special tool is needed to remove the oil filter. What's the deal on this?

 

a oil filter "F" wrench that they sell at the local autozone or pepboys.

 

Recommend you get the one from a Mazda parts dept since there has been at least one report of an aftermarket "F" tool not fitting.

BTW, all oil filters require a tool for removal. There are other generic oil filter removal tools that will remove the RX-8 oil filter, but the "F" size is designed to snugly fit the top of the filter. Some of the generic tools are not very easy to use in a cramped environment.

 

http://www.finishlineperformance.com...n&key=RX8M1002

 

Thanks to all who replied.

 

ey......i dont use the wrench the only time i did was to take off the oil filter that mazda put on - b'itch **** dudes must have used an impact wrench to torque it on. now i just hand tighten it.

 

I just bought an F wrench at autozone and while it fits over the mobil 1 new filter i bought it seems like the stock black filter with white writing on it is larger. What size wrench do you need for the stock filter?

 

Apparently all "F" size wrenches are not the same. I recall another post where the person had the same problem. The wrench that the dealer sell for a few dollars fits fine, snuggly but fine. Order one from Rosenthal or Trussville along with a supply of filters.

 

I ended up getting a universal one for import cars that is spring loaded. It fits over the top and then when you turn the ratchet it bites down and turns the filter, worked like a charm. Also when I took the filter off not a single drop of oil came out, of course the car had been sitting there for at least an hour from when I first started to get the filter off and when I got back from the store and actually did.