I prefer filter elements too. Much less messy to change them, as they are usually on the top of the engine and the oil drains *out* of them. Metal canisters were often underneath, and you could be fairly sure of a soaking in carcinogenic oil when you ripped them off, which could be a tricky business if it'd been overtightened previously. I remember having to hammer a large screwdriver through one once on a Fiesta, after giving up on straps and chains. That made a terrible mess.
But yeah, never be afraid of changing the oil on a modern car. The fundamentals haven't changed, no mater how much black plastic they clothe the engine in.
Follow the oil specs, have the right tools, spare sump washer and a good filter and you're away.
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