I was looking at the FSM documentation for changing the oil on the Maxima, and it says to use special tool to remove the oil filter. The part number is KV10115801 (J-38956). I've searched, and I can't find anyone that sells it. I'm assuming the part number has changed. Can anyone tell me what the correct part number is and where I can order this filter wrench online?

 

Oil filter should be no more than hand tight. Most shops will tighten the crap out of them where you have to use a wrench or channel locks. My 5th has the oil filter on hand tight and I've never an issue with oil leaking from there. Point is you should not need one unless this is the first time your changing the oil on your 7th gen yourself.

 

You don't need anything exotic for a filter wrench and I'm sure the dealer one is crazy expensive. Just go to a parts store and buy a generic one. i prefer a metal bandwrench. Allows for good leverage and doesn't crush like those claw ones. Remember their are different sizes. You want one that would fit around a beer can maybe a king can.

 

I use nothing more than a small pipe wrench. Small enough for the tight place and opens large enough to grab the filter.

 

Is there a certain type of oil filter wrench or socket that works best? For almost 10 years I've been driving vehicles with GM Ecotec engines that have the cartridge style filters. I've heard that it's a tight fit when changing the filter on the Maxima, so I wasn't for sure if the special tool aided in the narrow space.

 

never needed anything more then my hand to take off any filter I put on,,,,, ALWAYS oil the gasket first as well

 

Whenever I've done my oil changes I just used my hand for the filter.

 

take it off with your hand

 

Yeah good luck using that thing anyway. I tried (obviously I was brain dead at the time) and spent a good 20 minutes messing with it until I was so angry I just took it off with my hand (that, and probably the addition of trying to loosen it over time) lol but jeeeeeeez. Pointless tool.