Engine Oil and Filter Change

Overview

This procedure outlines how to change the engine oil and filter on a Porsche 944 S / S2 with a 16v engine. Regular oil changes are essential for maintaining engine longevity and performance. For the 944 S / S2, frequent oil changes every 4828 km (3000 miles) are recommended to ensure optimal engine health, despite Porsche’s suggestion of 24140 km (15000 miles) for normally aspirated engines.

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Tools Required

• 17mm (11/16 inch) socket and ratchet or 17mm (11/16 inch) combination wrench
• Type J oil filter wrench
• Jack stands and floor jack or ramps
• Drain pan
• Catch rags

Parts Required

• Oil filter: 944 107 201 90 (Porsche OEM) or Mahle OC 142
• Engine oil: Approximately 5.5 liters (5.8 US quarts) of synthetic oil suitable for the 944 S / S2 (16v engine)
• Oil drain plug seal ring: 900 123 049 30 (26 x 32 mm)
• Optional replacement oil pan drain plug (if damaged): N 016 164 1 (M20 x 1.5)

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle

1. 1. Run the engine for 5–10 minutes to warm the oil, allowing it to flow better and carry away more debris.
   2. Raise the front of the vehicle using a floor jack and secure it on jack stands, or drive it onto ramps, ensuring it is stable and level.

   Note:
   The Porsche 944 S / S2 may have a rear skid pan covering the oil pan. If present, remove it to access the oil pan drain plug. Many owners discard this pan for easier oil changes and improved oil cooling.

   Step 2: Drain the Engine Oil

   3. Place a drain pan directly beneath the oil pan drain plug.
   4. Using a 17mm (11/16 inch) socket and ratchet or combination wrench, carefully remove the oil pan drain plug. Allow the oil to drain completely for at least 5 minutes.
   5. Inspect the drain plug seal ring (900 123 049 30). Replace it if it shows scratches, gouges, or deformation.
   6. Once the oil has fully drained, reinstall the drain plug with the seal ring and torque to 50 Nm (37 ft-lbs).

   Step 3: Remove the Oil Filter

   7. Move the drain pan under the oil filter area, located on the side of the engine block.
   8. Place catch rags around and below the oil filter to minimize mess from dripping oil.
   9. Using a Type J oil filter wrench, remove the old oil filter by turning it counterclockwise.

   Optional:
   To reduce mess, you may punch a hole in the top-center of the filter before removing the drain plug to help it drain. Note that opinions vary on the effectiveness of this method.

   Step 4: Install the New Oil Filter

   10. Apply a thin layer of new engine oil to the seal ring of the new oil filter (944 107 201 90 or Mahle OC 142) to prevent tearing and ease future removal.
   11. Install the new filter by hand, tightening it until snug. Do not use a wrench to tighten; turn no more than 1/4 turn past hand-tight to avoid over-tightening.

   Step 5: Refill the Engine with Oil

   12. Remove the oil fill cap and pour in approximately 5.5 liters (5.8 US quarts) of synthetic oil suitable for the 944 S / S2 (16v engine). Check the dipstick and fill to the upper mark.
   13. Replace the oil fill cap securely.

   Step 6: Check Oil Pressure and Final Levels

   14. Start the engine and verify normal oil pressure on the dashboard gauge.
   15. If using jack stands, stop the engine and lower the vehicle to level ground.
   16. Let the engine sit for 5–10 minutes to allow oil to settle back into the pan.
   17. With the vehicle on level ground, check the oil level using the dipstick. Top off if necessary to reach the upper mark.

   Step 7: Dispose of Used Oil

   18. Transfer the used oil from the drain pan to a sealed container and take it to an approved recycling or disposal facility.

   Post Procedure Checklist

   • Verify the oil drain plug is torqued to 50 Nm (37 ft-lbs) and shows no leaks.
   • Ensure the new oil filter is hand-tight and not leaking.
   • Confirm the oil level is at the upper dipstick mark after the engine has settled.
   • Check for normal oil pressure when the engine is running.
   • Ensure all tools and rags are removed from the engine bay.
   • Dispose of used oil and filter at an approved facility.

   Sources

   • Clark’s Garage
   • Pelican Parts
   • Porsche 944 Workshop Manuals
   • YouTube