I just got my oil changed a little while ago and was thinking...

Out of curiosity, what happens if you don't put in a new filter but you do take the old one out? This popped into my mind because for like 30 seconds that I was on the phone, the mechanic was supposed to put the new filter in and I wasn't watching so I became skeptical of whether or not he put it in.

Is there anyway to check if he put it in there without having to lift the car?

 

turn the steering all the way to the right
Look at the filter
Put a mark on it if you are paranoid about it for next time.
It takes seconds to spin the new filter on

 

Unless I'm mistaken, there will be a ~1 gallon oil spill under your car.
And the oil light will come on.

 

ChemicalLew, I was wondering if the oil would spill out if the filter is not in.

01tl4tl, I know the filter is right around the right front wheel but how visible is it if I turn the wheels all the way? Why did you say to put a mark on it for next time?

 

Oil Spill yes - when the oil circulates through the system and get to the hole where the filter is supposed to be, what do think is going to happen?

Easy to see, just look under the car, behind the wheel well.

He means put a unique mark on the old/current filter. Then after service, check the filter to make sure they actually put a new filter in. I.e. they didn't rip you off by not changing the filter, but charging you for a new one anyhow.

 

Oh no, I saw him take the old filter out but just didn't see the new one go in. So I became curious/skeptical.

Bearcat94, I know I can look under the car but I don't think that it is too possible without lifts.

 

It's entirely possible - with out any lifts, jacks, turning the wheel to the side, whatever.

Just lay down (on your nice, clean, shiny garage floor if you have one (stillhere153 )) next to the passenger wheel, stick your head under the car and look.



Unless you're slammed it's no problem (I'm dropped ~1.4" and just snapped this).

 

If he didn't put a filter back on you would have all your oil leak out immediately after starting your vehicle. Also shortly thereafter if it is still running your several thousand dollar engine would be a very heavy paperweight because it would blow. If you see no oil and your car still runs, you got a new filter!!

 

Thanks for that information guys! Would the oil percentage on the MID drop like crazy though?

Bearcat, thanks for that picture! Oh yeah, I saw your garage in another thread! Very nice cleanup job! Great workspace for the TL!

 

Are you people for REAL??? Holy cow.

 

without an oil filter your engine would of blown on the way out of the driveway.

Honestly Ive worked at many quick lube places and customers get really paranoid from what they hear and see on tv but not every lube place is crooked. Just find one with good techs and managers, they treat there regulars good

 

oh bear you think I missed that didn't you

without a filter you wouldn't get far.... relax k...
ps. you did the lights? or we doing them sunday?