oil filter for 04 mazda 3

hi folks,

simple question. I was planning on doing my oil change...to save a few bucks these days, but reading through the manual, it doesn't say what oil filter to use? however it just adds this blurb under the heading changing the oil filter

"Because you need a special tool to
retighten the filter, an Authorized Mazda
Dealer should do the work."

what gives? Is that true? Doesn't the 3i. 2.0 4dr sedan just have a regular turn type filter than you can just hand tighten and remove with a typical strap handle tool? I've had fords and toyotas in the past and they always list the oil and filter specs and never any indication that there is a special tool required and recommends a dealer to change something as simple as the oil?

Thanks for your input.

The 2.0 engine does use a spin on filter, many common oil filter removal tools will work. For after market filters a Purolator Pure-One PL10241 should work or their standard PL10241 will also work. You should be able to cross those numbers to other brands. Fram or Bosch is not the best choice. The factory filter part # is listed in this link.
http://mazda3revolution.com/how-to-guides/how-to-change-oil-mazda-3-23-20/

Clifton

I am selling a 5 pack of mazda 2.0L filters here
http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/showthread.php?t=123735593

You do not need a special tool. Just don't over tighten the oil filter when installing.