Dodge Charger Oil Filter Housing: Problems, Replacement

Nov 14, 2025 by Alex Braham 56 views

The oil filter housing in your Dodge Charger is a critical component that ensures clean oil circulates through your engine, keeping it running smoothly. Guys, when this part fails, it can lead to some serious headaches. This article dives deep into the common issues, how to spot them, and what it takes to replace the oil filter housing on your Dodge Charger.

Understanding the Oil Filter Housing

So, what exactly does the oil filter housing do? Think of it as the command center for your oil filtration system. It's typically made of aluminum or plastic and houses the oil filter itself. More than just a container, it often integrates other important functions, such as oil pressure sensors, oil coolers, and even the thermostat for the oil cooling system. In many modern Dodge Chargers, the oil filter housing also incorporates the oil cooler adapter. This adapter allows coolant to circulate around the oil filter, helping to regulate the oil temperature. This is especially important in high-performance engines like those found in many Charger models, where oil temperatures can climb rapidly under hard driving conditions. The housing's design also includes intricate channels and valves that direct the flow of oil, ensuring it passes through the filter before lubricating the engine's vital components. This filtration process is essential for removing contaminants such as dirt, metal particles, and sludge, which can cause wear and damage to the engine. Over time, the oil filter housing can degrade due to constant exposure to heat, pressure, and harsh chemicals. Plastic housings are particularly susceptible to cracking and warping, while aluminum housings can corrode. When the housing fails, it can lead to oil leaks, reduced oil pressure, and even engine damage. Therefore, regular inspection and timely replacement of the oil filter housing are crucial for maintaining the health and performance of your Dodge Charger's engine. Recognizing the signs of a failing housing, such as oil leaks or unusual engine noises, can help prevent more serious problems down the road. By understanding the function and importance of the oil filter housing, Charger owners can take proactive steps to ensure their engines continue to run smoothly and reliably for years to come.

Common Problems with Dodge Charger Oil Filter Housings

Alright, let's talk about the gremlins that can plague your Dodge Charger's oil filter housing. One of the most frequent issues is cracking. These housings, especially the plastic ones, are subjected to constant heat cycles. Over time, the plastic becomes brittle and cracks, leading to oil leaks. These leaks can be slow and insidious, or they can be quite dramatic, causing a significant drop in oil pressure. Another common problem is warping. Again, heat is the culprit. Warping can distort the sealing surfaces of the housing, making it difficult to achieve a proper seal with the engine block or the oil filter itself. This can also lead to leaks, even if the housing isn't visibly cracked. Leaking seals are another headache. The oil filter housing has several seals and gaskets that prevent oil from escaping. These seals can dry out, crack, or become brittle over time, resulting in leaks. Sometimes, the leaks are minor and only cause a slight mess. Other times, they can be severe enough to trigger the low oil pressure warning light on your dashboard. Thermostat failures are also common in some Dodge Charger models that have integrated oil coolers in the oil filter housing. The thermostat regulates the flow of coolant to the oil cooler, helping to maintain optimal oil temperatures. If the thermostat fails, it can cause the oil to overheat, which can lead to accelerated engine wear. In addition to these common problems, the oil filter housing can also be damaged by improper installation or overtightening of the oil filter. This can crack the housing or strip the threads, making it impossible to properly secure the filter. Furthermore, the housing can be susceptible to corrosion, especially in areas where road salt is used. Corrosion can weaken the housing and eventually lead to leaks. Regular inspections of the oil filter housing are crucial for detecting these problems early. Look for signs of oil leaks around the housing, especially near the seams and seals. Also, pay attention to any unusual engine noises or warning lights on your dashboard. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent more serious engine damage and keep your Dodge Charger running smoothly.

Symptoms of a Failing Oil Filter Housing

Okay, so how do you know if your Dodge Charger's oil filter housing is on its way out? Keep an eye out for these telltale signs. The most obvious sign is an oil leak. Look for oil puddles under your car, especially after it's been sitting for a while. Also, check the engine bay for oil residue around the oil filter housing. Even small leaks can indicate a problem. Low oil pressure is another red flag. If the low oil pressure warning light on your dashboard illuminates, it could be a sign that the oil filter housing is cracked or leaking. Low oil pressure can cause serious engine damage, so it's important to address this issue immediately. Overheating can also be a symptom, especially if your Charger has an integrated oil cooler in the oil filter housing. If the thermostat in the housing fails, it can cause the oil to overheat, which can lead to engine damage. Keep an eye on your engine temperature gauge and be alert for any signs of overheating. Engine noise can sometimes indicate a problem with the oil filter housing. If the housing is cracked or warped, it can cause the oil filter to vibrate, which can create a rattling or knocking noise. Also, if the housing is leaking, it can cause the engine to run rough or misfire. Visible cracks or damage to the housing are an obvious sign of a problem. Inspect the housing regularly for cracks, warping, or corrosion. If you see any damage, it's time to replace the housing. In addition to these symptoms, you may also notice a burning oil smell if the oil filter housing is leaking. This smell is caused by oil dripping onto hot engine components. If you smell burning oil, it's important to investigate the source of the leak immediately. Finally, a sluggish engine performance can sometimes indicate a problem with the oil filter housing. If the housing is leaking or restricting oil flow, it can cause the engine to run poorly. If you notice a decrease in performance, it's important to have your Charger inspected by a qualified mechanic.

Step-by-Step Replacement Guide

Alright, so you've diagnosed a bad oil filter housing – time to roll up your sleeves! Here’s a general guide on how to replace it. Disclaimer: always consult your vehicle’s service manual for specific instructions and torque specifications.

Tools You'll Need:

New oil filter housing assembly (make sure it's the correct one for your Charger's year and engine)
New oil filter
New engine oil (check your manual for the correct type and amount)
Socket set and wrenches
Torque wrench
Oil filter wrench
Drain pan
Jack and jack stands (if needed)
Gloves and safety glasses
Cleaning supplies (shop rags, degreaser)

Steps:

Preparation: First, you need to make sure your Dodge Charger is parked on a level surface. Engage the parking brake for safety. Allow the engine to cool down completely before you start working, because hot oil can cause serious burns. Gather all the necessary tools and materials. Protect your work area with a drop cloth or cardboard to catch any spills. Put on your safety glasses and gloves to protect your eyes and skin.
Drain the Oil: Locate the oil drain plug on the oil pan. Place the drain pan underneath the plug. Use a wrench to carefully loosen and remove the drain plug. Allow all of the oil to drain completely. Once the oil has finished draining, clean the drain plug and install a new crush washer. Then, tighten the drain plug to the manufacturer's specified torque. This will prevent leaks and ensure proper sealing.
Remove the Old Oil Filter: Use an oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old oil filter. Be prepared for some oil to spill out when you remove the filter. Dispose of the old filter properly. Before installing the new oil filter, lightly lubricate the rubber gasket with fresh engine oil. This will help create a good seal and prevent leaks. Then, screw the new oil filter onto the oil filter housing by hand until the gasket makes contact. Tighten the filter an additional half to three-quarters of a turn, or according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Remove the Old Housing: Disconnect any electrical connectors attached to the oil filter housing, such as the oil pressure sensor. Carefully remove any hoses or lines connected to the housing, such as oil cooler lines. Use a socket or wrench to remove the bolts securing the oil filter housing to the engine block. Keep track of the location of each bolt, as they may be different sizes. Once all the bolts are removed, carefully remove the old oil filter housing. Be prepared for some oil to spill out when you remove the housing. Inspect the engine block surface for any damage or debris. Clean the surface thoroughly with a shop rag and degreaser.
Install the New Housing: Install new O-rings or gaskets on the new oil filter housing. These seals are essential for preventing leaks. Carefully position the new oil filter housing onto the engine block. Align the bolt holes and install the mounting bolts. Tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque using a torque wrench. This is crucial to prevent leaks and ensure proper sealing. Connect any hoses or lines to the new oil filter housing, such as oil cooler lines. Make sure the connections are secure and properly tightened. Reconnect any electrical connectors attached to the oil filter housing, such as the oil pressure sensor.
Install New Oil and Filter: Install the new oil filter, making sure it's properly tightened. Remove the oil fill cap on top of the engine. Pour in the correct amount of new engine oil, according to your vehicle's specifications. Replace the oil fill cap.
Check for Leaks: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for any oil leaks around the oil filter housing, oil filter, and drain plug. If you see any leaks, stop the engine and tighten the connections or seals as needed. Monitor the oil pressure gauge or warning light to make sure the oil pressure is normal. If the oil pressure is low, stop the engine and investigate the cause.
Final Steps: Turn off the engine and let it cool down. Check the oil level with the dipstick and add more oil if needed. Dispose of the old oil and filter properly at a recycling center. Reset the oil life monitoring system in your vehicle, if applicable. This will ensure that you receive timely reminders for your next oil change.

Prevention and Maintenance Tips

Okay, let's talk about keeping your Dodge Charger's oil filter housing happy and healthy. Regular maintenance is key. Change your oil regularly. This is the single most important thing you can do to extend the life of your oil filter housing and your engine. Dirty oil can clog the filter and put extra stress on the housing. Use the correct oil filter. Using the wrong filter can cause leaks or damage the housing. Always check your owner's manual for the correct filter specification. Don't overtighten the oil filter. Overtightening can crack the housing or strip the threads. Tighten the filter by hand until the gasket makes contact, then tighten it an additional half to three-quarters of a turn. Inspect the oil filter housing regularly. Look for signs of leaks, cracks, or damage. Catching a problem early can prevent more serious damage. Be careful when working around the oil filter housing. Avoid bumping or hitting the housing, as this can cause cracks or leaks. Consider using a high-quality oil filter. High-quality filters are designed to remove more contaminants from the oil, which can help extend the life of the oil filter housing and the engine. If you live in an area with harsh winters, consider using a block heater. A block heater can help warm the engine oil, making it easier to start the engine in cold weather. This can reduce stress on the oil filter housing and the engine. Have your Charger serviced by a qualified mechanic. A qualified mechanic can inspect the oil filter housing and other engine components to ensure they are in good condition. They can also perform necessary repairs or replacements. By following these prevention and maintenance tips, you can help extend the life of your Dodge Charger's oil filter housing and keep your engine running smoothly for years to come.