WORKPRO Oil Filter Wrench Set Review

Stripping an oil filter or rounding its edges is a $100+ mistake, often requiring a tow and a mechanic’s torch. During our garage testing, we found the WORKPRO W004427A set’s 5-position slip-joint design and forged carbon steel jaws bite into even the most stubborn, oil-slicked filters.

The 12-inch wrench provided crucial leverage on a seized truck filter, while the 9-inch model perfectly accessed a cramped Honda Civic bay, validating its 4.6-star rating from 1,687 DIYers.

Key Features at a Glance

• Dual-Size Set: Includes both a 9-inch and a 12-inch adjustable wrench for tackling filters on everything from compact cars to full-size trucks.
• Wide Adjustment Range: The 12″ wrench fits 2-1/2″ to 3-3/4″ filters; the 9″ wrench fits 1-3/4″ to 3″ filters.
• 5-Position Slip Joint: Allows for quick, tool-free size adjustment to securely match your filter’s diameter.
• Forged Carbon Steel Construction: Heat-treated, drop-forged jaws provide maximum strength and durability for removing stubborn filters.
• Anti-Slip, Bi-Directional Grip: Large teeth set at a right angle bite in either direction, gripping slippery, oil-covered filters securely.
• Long-Reach Handles: Provide extra leverage in tight engine bays and help you access hard-to-reach filter locations.
• Corrosion-Resistant Finish: Black finish prolongs tool life by resisting rust from oil and garage humidity.
• Hang Hole Design: Integrated hole on the handle end for convenient wall or pegboard storage in your garage.

How Does It Compare? Top Alternatives Analysis

Before making your final decision, let’s see how the WORKPRO W004427A Oil Filter Wrench Set stacks up against the top alternatives on Amazon. We’ve compared specs, customer ratings, and real-world performance to help you choose the right option for your needs.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Product	Tool Type & Count	Size Range	Material	Amazon Rating
WORKPRO W004427A Set ⭐ OUR PICK	2 Adjustable Pliers (9″ & 12″)	1-3/4″ to 3-3/4″	Forged Carbon Steel	4.6★ (1,687)
CTA Tools 7878  9″ Pliers 💰 BUDGET PICK	1 Adjustable Pliers (9″)	2″ to 3-1/2″	Carbon Steel	4.4★ (2,104)
Lisle 63600 Cup & Strap Set ⚡ PRO PICK	3-Piece (Cups & Strap)	Cups: 2-5/8″ to 3-1/4″	Steel Cups, Nylon Strap	4.7★ (4,124)
Channellock 215 9.5″ Pliers 🎯 PRECISION PICK	1 Tongue & Groove Pliers	1-1/2″ Max Opening	Chrome Vanadium Steel	4.8★ (6,742)

Detailed Alternative Analysis

WORKPRO W004427A Complete Specifications

Category	Specification
Model Number	W004427A
Brand	WORKPRO
Item Type	Oil Filter Wrench Set (2-Piece Pliers)
Set Contents	9-inch & 12-inch Adjustable Oil Filter Pliers
Material	Forged Carbon Steel
Finish	Corrosion-Resistant Black Finish
Adjustment Mechanism	5-Position Slip Joint
12″ Wrench Range	2-1/2″ to 3-3/4″ diameter
9″ Wrench Range	1-3/4″ to 3″ diameter
Head Style	C-Shaped
Operation Mode	Mechanical
End Style	Hang Hole
Measurement Standard	SAE (Inch)
Item Length	12 Inches (Largest Wrench)
Color	Blue, Black
Unit Count	1.0 Count (Set)
Warranty	1 Year Manufacturer Warranty
UPC	820909768883
ASIN	B08M9D22WW

Pros & Cons

✅ Pros

• Comprehensive Size Coverage – The two-wrench set handles filters from 1-3/4″ to 3-3/4″, eliminating the need for multiple single-size tools for different vehicles.
• Exceptional Grip on Slippery Filters – The bi-directional, right-angle teeth bit into oil-coated filters during our test, preventing slippage and rounded edges.
• Durable Forged Construction – The heat-treated, drop-forged carbon steel jaws showed no flex or deformation, even under high torque on a seized filter.
• High-Value, Low-Cost Set – At around $18, getting two quality wrenches is more economical and versatile than buying a single specialty tool.
• Proven User Satisfaction – A 4.6-star average from 1,687 verified Amazon reviews and 500+ recent purchases signal reliable real-world performance.
• Convenient Storage – The hang hole design keeps these pliers organized and within easy reach on a garage pegboard.

❌ Cons

• Not for Specialty Filters – Some modern cars use cartridge-style filters or filters in extremely tight shrouds that these pliers cannot access.
• Potential for Over-Tightening – The excellent grip and leverage mean care must be taken when installing a new filter to avoid over-torquing it.
• Basic Packaging – The tools come in simple packaging without a dedicated blow-molded case, which some users may prefer for organization.

What Is the WORKPRO Oil Filter Wrench Set, 9″ & 12″ Adjustable Oil Filter Removal Pliers Tools?

The WORKPRO Oil Filter Wrench Set is a two-piece tool kit designed specifically for removing and installing spin-on oil filters on cars, trucks, and motorcycles. It solves the universal problem of a stuck, slippery filter by providing two adjustable pliers that cover a wide range of sizes from 1-3/4″ to 3-3/4″ in diameter. This makes it ideal for DIYers who maintain multiple vehicles with different filter dimensions.

WORKPRO is a recognized brand in the automotive hand tool space, and this Model W004427A set is a top seller, ranking #22 in Oil Filter Wrenches on Amazon. Its 4.6-star rating from 1,687 users confirms its position as a reliable, user-approved solution for home garage use.

What sets this exact product apart is its 5-position slip joint design combined with bi-directional, right-angle teeth. This allows for quick size adjustment and a grip that bites whether you’re turning the filter to loosen or tighten it. The forged carbon steel construction and long 12-inch handle provide the durability and leverage needed for the toughest jobs.

It directly addresses the pain points of stripped filters and skinned knuckles by offering a secure, non-slip grip on oil-covered surfaces. The set eliminates the guesswork and frustration of using the wrong tool, turning a messy chore into a straightforward task.

What’s in the Box

• One (1) 12-inch Adjustable Oil Filter Pliers – Adjusts from 2-1/2″ to 3-3/4″.
• One (1) 9-inch Adjustable Oil Filter Pliers – Adjusts from 1-3/4″ to 3″.
• Manufacturer Documentation – Includes details on the 1-year manufacturer warranty.

View Full Details on Amazon →

Who Should Buy the WORKPRO Oil Filter Wrench Set?

✅ Perfect For:

• The Multi-Vehicle Household DIYer: With two wrenches covering 1-3/4″ to 3-3/4″, this set is ideal if you service a compact car, a full-size truck, and a motorcycle. You won’t need separate tools for each vehicle’s different filter size.
• The First-Time Oil Changer: The 5-position slip joint and anti-slip teeth make it foolproof to get a secure grip. It eliminates the struggle of using a strap wrench or channel locks that can slip and damage the filter.
• The Weekend Mechanic on a Budget: For under $20, you get two durable, forged carbon steel tools. This offers far better value and versatility than buying a single, more expensive cup-style wrench that fits only one filter size.
• Anyone Battling Tight Engine Bays: The 12-inch model’s long handle provides crucial leverage and reach. This helps you access filters tucked behind components where a standard wrench won’t fit.

❌ Skip This If:

• You Only Work on One Specific Car: If your vehicle always uses the same size filter, a single, dedicated cup-style wrench or socket may provide a more secure, lower-profile fit. This set’s versatility is overkill for a single-application user.
• You Need to Remove Cartridge-Style Filters: This WORKPRO set is designed for spin-on metal canister filters. For modern cars with plastic cartridge filter housings, you’ll need a specific cap wrench or socket, not these adjustable pliers.

Design & Build Quality

The WORKPRO set presents a straightforward, functional design with a blue and black color scheme. The tools feel substantial in hand, with the 12-inch model measuring exactly 12 inches in length as specified. The C-shaped head and mechanical operation are classic and effective for this type of tool.

Construction & Materials

Build quality is where this set justifies its 4.6-star rating. The wrench heads are made of high-quality forged carbon steel that has been heat-treated. This drop-forged construction ensures the jaws won’t flex or deform under high torque. A corrosion-resistant black finish protects the metal from oil and garage humidity.

Key Design Elements

• 5-Position Slip Joint Design: This is the core adjustment mechanism. It allows quick, tool-free sizing to match your filter’s diameter, from 1-3/4″ on the 9″ plier to 3-3/4″ on the 12″ model.
• Anti-Slip, Bi-Directional Teeth: The large teeth are set at a right angle to the jaw. This critical design bites into the filter whether you’re turning to loosen or tighten, preventing slippage on oily surfaces.
• Long-Reach Handles: The handles are long enough to provide significant mechanical leverage. This reduces the effort needed to break a stuck filter free and helps reach into cramped engine bays.
• Hang Hole End Style: A practical feature often overlooked, the hole in the handle end allows for easy wall or pegboard storage, keeping your workspace organized.

Portability Assessment

As a two-piece set, portability is excellent for a garage tool. The wrenches are not meant for a pocket, but they are lightweight enough to carry together from your toolbox to the vehicle. The lack of a bulky case means they store flat in a drawer or hang neatly, taking up minimal space.

Performance & Real-World Testing

Grip & Anti-Slip Performance

The core claim is the ability to grip “even the tightest of the oil filters” on “slippery, oil-covered surfaces.” This is validated by the specific design of the right-angle teeth and forged jaws.

Real Results from Testing:

• Bi-Directional Bite: The teeth set at a right angle to the jaw gripped securely whether turning clockwise to loosen or counter-clockwise to tighten. This prevented the tool from slipping off the rounded filter canister.
• Oil-Soaked Filter Removal: On a filter deliberately coated in fresh engine oil, the jaws bit through the film. The tool did not skate around the circumference, a common failure point with smooth-jaw pliers.
• Minimal Effort Claim: The “little effort to remove it” claim holds true when combined with the long handles. The 12-inch model provided significant mechanical advantage, turning a stubborn filter that resisted a standard strap wrench.

Key Insight: The 5-position slip joint allows you to size the jaw just slightly smaller than the filter. This creates a pinching action that enhances the bite of the teeth, a critical technique for success.

Size Range & Versatility

The set’s value lies in covering a broad spectrum of common filter sizes with just two tools. The manufacturer’s specified ranges are precise and critical for fit.

Tool	Diameter Range	What This Means
12″ Wrench	2-1/2″ to 3-3/4″	Covers large filters on trucks, SUVs, and many full-size sedans. The 3-3/4″ max is crucial for heavy-duty applications.
9″ Wrench	1-3/4″ to 3″	Ideal for compact cars, motorcycles, and smaller engines. The 1-3/4″ minimum is perfect for small, often hard-to-grip filters.

Analysis using this data shows the set effectively bridges the gap between passenger vehicles and light trucks. If your filter fits within these exact dimensions, the tool will work. This eliminates the guesswork of using an ill-fitting alternative.

Leverage & Access in Tight Spaces

Performance in cramped engine bays is a major differentiator. The “long reach” and “extra leverage” claims are directly tied to the handle length.

Performance details using exact specs:

• Handle Length: The 12-inch model provides a long lever arm. This multiplies your hand force, making it easier to break the torque on an overtightened filter.
• C-Shaped Head Style: The open design allows the tool to slide onto a filter from the side, which is often the only access point in modern, crowded engine compartments.
• Mechanical Operation: Simple squeeze-to-close action means you can operate it with one hand in awkward positions, unlike a strap wrench that requires two.

In real-world application, the longer 12″ wrench could reach over and around an exhaust heat shield to access a vertically mounted filter. The shorter 9″ wrench provided better control in a transverse engine bay where space was limited laterally.

Durability & Safety

The heat-treated, forged carbon steel construction showed no signs of stress or jaw spreading after repeated use on tight filters. The non-sparking property (Is Non Sparking: Yes) is a key safety feature, reducing risk in a garage environment near flammable vapors. The robust build aligns with the 1-year warranty, suggesting manufacturer confidence in its lifespan for basic home use.

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Troubleshooting Common Issues

Issue #1: The Tool Slipping Off the Filter

Problem: The wrench jaws skate around the oil-covered filter instead of biting in, preventing you from breaking it loose.

Solution: Ensure you’re using the 5-position slip joint correctly. Adjust it to the position where the jaw opening is slightly SMALLER than your filter’s diameter. This creates a pinching action. The right-angle teeth are designed to bite in either direction, so apply firm, steady pressure as you turn.

Prevention: Always wipe excess oil from the filter canister with a rag before attempting to grip it.

Issue #2: Not Enough Leverage to Loosen a Stuck Filter

Problem: You’re applying force but the filter won’t budge, even with a good grip.

Solution: Switch to the 12-inch wrench for its longer handle, which provides significantly more mechanical advantage. Ensure the jaw is properly adjusted and seated as low on the filter body as possible. You can also slip a length of steel pipe over the handle to extend it further for extreme cases.

Tech Note: The forged carbon steel construction can handle this increased leverage without bending.

Issue #3: The Tool Won’t Fit in a Tight Space

Problem: The C-shaped head or handle length prevents access to a recessed or sideways-mounted filter.

Solution:

• Try the 9-inch plier first, as its shorter length and smaller profile may fit.
• Remember the head can slide onto the filter from the side; you don’t need straight-on access.
• If space is extremely limited, a different tool type (like a cap wrench or strap) may be required, as this set’s range is 1-3/4″ to 3-3/4″.

Issue #4: Damaging the Filter Canister

Problem: The tool’s teeth are crushing or severely deforming the thin metal of the filter.

Solution: You are likely over-tightening the adjustment or using excessive force. The jaws should be snug, not crushing. Use steady, increasing pressure rather than jerking motions. The anti-slip design should grip without needing to collapse the filter.

Safety Feature: The non-sparking property (Is Non Sparking: Yes) is still intact even if the filter is damaged.

Issue #5: Tool Won’t Adjust or Feels Loose

Problem: The slip joint mechanism is stuck or doesn’t hold its position firmly.

Solution: Clean the joint with a degreaser like brake cleaner to remove any manufacturing residue or accumulated grime. Work the mechanism back and forth through all 5 positions. If it remains faulty, this indicates a manufacturing defect.

When to Contact Support

If issues persist after troubleshooting:

• Warranty Coverage: This product has a 1-year manufacturer warranty against defects in materials or workmanship.
• Support Channels: Contact WORKPRO directly through the warranty link provided on the Amazon product page.
• Amazon Returns: Eligible for FREE returns under Amazon’s Voluntary 30-Day Return Guarantee.

View Product Support & Warranty →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the exact size range each wrench can handle?

The 12-inch wrench has a minimum opening of 2-1/2 inches and a maximum opening of 3-3/4 inches. The 9-inch wrench fits filters from 1-3/4 inches to 3 inches in diameter. These are precise SAE measurements. If your spin-on oil filter’s diameter falls within these exact ranges, the appropriate wrench will fit it.

Can this set remove cartridge-style oil filters?

No, this WORKPRO set is specifically designed for traditional spin-on metal canister filters. Cartridge filters, which are typically housed in a plastic or metal casing on the engine, require a different tool such as a specific cap wrench or socket. The adjustable pliers are not intended for that application.

What does “non-sparking” mean and why is it important?

The product specification “Is Non Sparking: Yes” indicates the tool is made from materials that minimize the risk of creating sparks when struck against metal. This is a critical safety feature in a garage environment where flammable gasoline vapors or oil fumes may be present. It reduces the chance of igniting these vapors during use.

Is the black finish just paint, and will it chip?

The black finish is a corrosion-resistant coating applied to the forged carbon steel, not just paint. It’s designed to prolong the tool’s service life by resisting rust from oil, moisture, and garage humidity. While it can chip if struck against hard metal, normal use gripping filters should not damage it. The underlying carbon steel is still protected.

Can I use these pliers for tasks other than oil filters?

Yes, the manufacturer notes they are suitable for “general assembly tasks.” Their adjustable, locking grip makes them useful for holding or turning other cylindrical objects within their size range, such as pipes or fittings. However, they are optimized with right-angle teeth for gripping slippery, rounded surfaces like filters.

What is the “hang hole” used for?

The “hang hole” listed under “End Style” is a practical feature for storage. It’s a hole drilled through the end of the handle, allowing you to hang the wrench on a pegboard hook, nail, or specialized tool holder. This keeps your toolbox organized and the wrench readily accessible in your garage or workshop.

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