Yes it is not easy to reach. What I finally did after struggling many times is both the big socket type adapter that you turn with a ratchet. Drill two holes 180 degrees apart and fit two M8 bolts. Screw the bolts into the filter and turn. I have used a large screw driver and hammer before. My new method works great.
By the way, I changed the oil at Wal-mart once and they broke my pressure control cable. I noticed it when I did the next oil change at home. It was the only time I let someone change the oil in 8 years other than myself. never again.
Meza

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Meza
1993 190E 2.6
Advanced Diesel Systems Test and Research Engineer

Drilling holes will introduce swarf into the filter. There is a small chance this will get into your engine. Driving a screwdriver into the filter casing seems a whole lot cruder, but reduces (but does not eliminate) the chance of creating swarf or other particles.

Just my opinion. I've never changed a filter on a 201 2.6. The 201 2.0 I had was the easiest filter I have ever changed.

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Cheers, Neil

Why not go to the dealer and pay the $8 or $9 for the filter socket? That, a ratchet and a 10" extension and it's a snap.

I have a universal tool that goes on a ratchet. It has three fingers that tighten as you turn. It works great also, I think it was more expensive.

One more trick. To keep from spilling oil on the starter, use a long punch and punch a hole right in the middle top of the old filter. Give it a few minutes after punching the hole before removing the filter. This vents the filter and lets the oil drain out before removing it. I personally do this before pulling the drain plug, then by the time I have the plug out, I only have to wait another minute or so before unscrewing the filter.

Good luck,

I found a "filter socket" at Pep Boys that fits the OE type Bosch filter for about five bucks and have never had a problem removing or installing the filter.

The first thing I do is loosen the filter one-quarter turn to make sure it will come off, then puncture the filter per Larry's suggestion. (I use a 3.5" construction nail and a small hammer - works great.) Then I remove the pan plug and let the oil drain for about five to ten minutes, jack up the right rear corner to get the last few ounces out, then let it down and install the plug. Final step prior to installing fresh oil is to change the filter, and it usually never spills a drop, but I wrap a couple of rags around the filter base just in case. I tighten it 3/4 turn from the point where the gasket contacts the pad.

One thing I appreciate about these cars is the easy, no hassle, no mess oil and coolant changes.

Duke

Just get the K&N filter, its just a little bit more than the OEM filter, filters better and takes a regular 3/8" socket wrench to remove.

See it at www.2phast.com/190e and look under the maintaince section.

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1993 500E
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