What does the oil filter do?
The oil filter works to remove contaminants from engine oil, extending the life of the engine and maintaining high oil quality, which naturally degrades over time. The oil pump sends used oil through a filter element, removing the particles and allowing the oil to pass through. The freshly strained oil is then taken back up to the engine for lubrication. There are different makes and sizes of oil filters, and it’s important to consult your owner’s manual and verify that the replacement will fit. An ill-fitting filter can cause leaks and damage the threads on the engine, which require more intensive repairs. If the oil filter is too big or too loose, it can come off entirely, making a big mess and bigger internal problems.
When should I change my oil filter?
Since you can’t actually see inside a filter to check on how full it might be, and filter failure can cause potentially serious damage, replacing it with every scheduled oil change is a good practice.
How you drive & your oil filter…
Any time you drive your vehicle in more extreme conditions or in a more aggressive manner than typical street use, your oil additives are going to see their wear accelerated. This can also mean that your oil filter will lose its effectiveness more quickly, particularly if you frequently drive in dusty environments. If you’re on the race track on a regular basis or often find yourself on dirt roads, it’s too risky to try and stretch your filter change to every second oil change. In fact, you may want to change your lubricants more often than required in your vehicle’s manual, which may, in fact, come with a heavy-duty replacement schedule.
Contaminants pose a threat to the health of your engine, so make sure to change your oil filter regularly to prevent damage down the line.
For more information on an oil filter change, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA AUTO PARTS store.
References:
Hunting, B. (2019, July 29). Why Do I Need an Oil Filter Change? Retrieved February 24, 2020, from http://knowhow.napaonline.com/need-oil-filter-change/
Lampe, B. (2019, November 22). Going With The Flow: How an Engine Oil Filter Works. Retrieved February 24, 2020, from http://knowhow.napaonline.com/going-with-the-flow-how-an-engine-oil-filter-works/