It’s one of the basic tenets of automotive maintenance: clean motor oil contributes to engine health. If you were to leave your oil unfiltered, over time it would be filled with hard particles that contribute to the wear and tear of your engine. Without oil filters, this dirty oil would spread grit and other damaging contaminants, causing friction while it circulates and lubricates vital engine components. And that’s not good.
Without a doubt, the oil filter is an essential part of your vehicle’s engine system. Here are the basics of how oil filters work and why they are so important.
How Oil Filters Work
Your car’s oil filter features a metal can with a sealing gasket that holds it close to the engine block. At its base is the gasket, which is dotted with holes within the inside surface area. Inside there is a central hole threaded to match the oil filter assembly on the engine block.
The filter, which is typically made from some sort of synthetic fiber, can be found inside this metal can. Inside the engine, the oil pump pushes the oil directly to the filter, where it flows through the holes on the base plate. The oil is then pushed under pressure through the filter and back through the central hole to re-enter the engine block. The oil is pumped into your engine clean because the filter picks up gunk and grime along the way.
If you’re purchasing your own oil filter, be aware that tiny differences in the threads or gasket size of your engine can impact what filters will fit and work properly with your vehicle. Using an inaccurate filter size can result in oil seeping out of the engine or, in some cases, the filter can fall off completely. If this happens, it will likely damage your engine. Sometime down the road, you’ll end up paying for it big time with expensive engine repairs.
Skimping on a premium filter can also result in problems. For example, some bargain-basement filters feature light-gauge metal material that can shred away at your engine components. Do a little research and talk to your mechanic to be sure to match the right filter for your vehicle’s engine system.
When to Change the Oil Filter
This question is the source of confusion for many, and with good reason. Automotive manufacturers often recommend changing the oil filter every other time you change the oil. So, if your vehicle’s manufacturer recommends changing the oil every 3,000 miles, that means the filter should be changed every 6,000 miles. However, many parts and oil makers suggest replacing filters with every oil change. So who is right?
In reality, modern engine systems do a terrific job filtering gunk. Unless you are driving under extreme conditions (see below), the strong likelihood is that your oil and your filter are not dirty at the 3,000-miles mark. Instead, the general rule of thumb is to change your vehicle’s oil filter every 6,000 to 7,000 miles, which is probably around the time you’re changing your oil anyway.
There’s one additional piece of logic that supports changing your filter every time you perform an oil change: Why put clean oil through a filter that already has residue from the dirty oil you’ve just replaced?
So, in summary, aim to change your filters with every oil change. Filters are relatively inexpensive and provide a little insurance against potential engine issues. But don’t lock yourself into an oil change every 3,000 miles, as it's probably overkill. However, as mentioned, there are some exceptions. Here are some instances where you would want to change your oil filters more frequently.
Service Engine Light Goes On
No one likes to see the service light pop up. But when it does, there’s no reason to immediately assume big-time repairs are on the horizon. This light simply means something in your engine system isn’t quite right. One culprit could be the presence of gunk and grime, so try changing the oil filter to see if it solves the problem.
Consistent Severe Driving Conditions
If you are constantly driving in stop-and-go traffic, if you haul or tow heavy loads, or if you operate in extremely hot or cold temperatures, vehicle experts recommend changing your oil and oil filters more frequently. These situations all force the engine to work harder than “normal” conditions, and that in turn puts more wear and tear on all aspects of the engine system.
Of course, keep in mind that all vehicles are different, and the lifespan of your oil filter could be determined by any number of factors. The make and model, engine design, and driving conditions all play a part. When in doubt, consult a trusted mechanic or automotive expert to find out how long the oil filters in your specific vehicle should last.
Product Compliance and Suitability
The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand and follow all manufacturer instructions.