What keeps a car in good working condition? Many would say it’s the frequent oil changes. 

Every part of your car plays a role in keeping it running smoothly. Some would definitely point to oil changes. But there’s another small part that works just as hard and is equally important: the oil filter.

Oil filter replacements are often overlooked, but they’re critical to your engine’s health. If you’re wondering why regular oil filter replacements matter so much, you’re in the right place. We want to help you discover the importance of keeping your oil filter in good shape and how it impacts the overall performance of your car.

What Does an Oil Filter Do?

Oil is literally the lifeblood of your vehicle. It lubricates engine parts, reduces friction, and helps dissipate heat. 

But as the oil circulates through the engine, it picks up dirt, debris, and metal particles from normal engine wear. This is where the oil filter comes in. Its job is to remove contaminants from the oil before it circulates back through the engine, keeping everything running clean and smooth.

Without an oil filter, those contaminants would circulate with the oil, causing:

• Increased engine wear: Tiny particles in the oil act like sandpaper, slowly wearing down engine parts.
• Clogged oil passages: Debris can block critical oil passages, restricting the flow of oil.
• Reduced engine efficiency: Dirty oil can cause sludge buildup, which negatively impacts engine performance and fuel efficiency.

Why Regular Oil Filter Replacements Are Necessary

Your oil filter is designed to trap dirt and debris, but it doesn’t last forever. Over time, it gets clogged with contaminants and becomes less effective. If you don’t replace your oil filter regularly, it can lead to several issues:

• Restricted oil flow: As the filter becomes clogged, less oil can pass through, reducing lubrication and increasing friction in the engine.
• Dirty oil recirculation: When the filter is clogged, dirty oil may bypass the filter entirely, circulating contaminants through your engine.
• Engine damage: Running your car with a clogged or ineffective oil filter increases the risk of long-term engine damage.

In short, a clean oil filter is essential for keeping your engine running smoothly and extending its life. Considering the price and how easy it is to replace, this should be an automatic part of your regular routine. Luckily, it’s a service we offer with our full service oil changes. 

How Often Should You Replace Your Oil Filter?

Some would argue that oil filters can last a while. We feel it depends on several factors, including your driving habits, the type of oil you use, and your vehicle’s specifications. But as a general rule, oil filters should be replaced every time you change your oil.

Most vehicles require an oil change every 3,000 to 7,500 miles, but if you use synthetic oil, you might be able to go longer between changes—up to 10,000 miles. This is where it pays to get to know your owner’s manual. It can guide you to the manufacturer’s recommended oil change intervals, and give you an idea of when it’s time to replace the oil filter.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Oil Filter

Even if you’re diligent about oil changes, it’s still important to be aware of the signs that your oil filter might need replacing. Here are some things we recommend watching for:

• Oil pressure warning light: If your oil pressure warning light comes on, it could be a sign that your oil filter is clogged and restricting oil flow.
• Dirty oil: If the oil on your dipstick looks thick, dark, or gritty, it’s a sign that your filter isn’t doing its job and needs to be replaced.
• Engine overheating: A clogged oil filter can reduce oil circulation, leading to increased friction and heat in the engine.
• Sputtering or poor performance: If your car’s engine feels sluggish or you notice performance issues, a clogged oil filter could be to blame.

Any of these signs is an indication it’s a good idea to get your oil filter checked and replaced as soon as possible.

Benefits of Regular Oil Filter Replacements

Hopefully you now have a better understanding of the signs of a bad oil filter. It’s not always crystal clear, but with these ideas in mind, you’re more likely to sense an issue in its early stages. 

If you’re still not convinced of the benefits of replacing it regularly, let’s look at some reasons why. While it may seem like a small task, it offers big rewards in terms of your car’s performance and longevity.

Better Engine Performance

Your car’s engine works hard, and it needs clean, filtered oil to perform at its best. Replacing your oil filter regularly ensures that only clean oil is circulating through the engine, helping it run more smoothly and efficiently. You’ll notice better acceleration, smoother driving, and improved fuel efficiency when your engine is running on clean oil.

Extended Engine Life

The cleaner your engine stays, the longer it will last. Replacing your oil filter keeps harmful contaminants from circulating in the oil and causing damage to engine parts. By keeping your oil filter in good condition, you’ll help extend the life of your engine, saving you from costly repairs down the road.

Reduced Risk of Costly Repairs

Engine repairs can be expensive, and ignoring simple maintenance tasks like oil filter replacements can lead to bigger problems. A clogged or ineffective oil filter can cause engine damage that’s costly to fix. Replacing the filter regularly is an inexpensive way to protect your engine from more expensive issues later on.

Improved Fuel Efficiency

Clean oil reduces friction in the engine, helping it run more efficiently. When your oil filter is clogged, the engine has to work harder, which leads to decreased fuel efficiency. Replacing your oil filter can help you get better gas mileage and save money at the pump.

Choosing the Right Oil Filter for Your Car

Not all oil filters are created equal. When it’s time to replace your oil filter, here’s what you should consider:

• Check your owner’s manual: Your car’s manufacturer will recommend the specific type of oil filter that works best for your vehicle.
• Consider your driving habits: If you frequently drive in harsh conditions, like stop-and-go traffic or extreme temperatures, you may want to opt for a high-performance oil filter designed to handle those conditions.
• Stick with quality brands: Don’t skimp on the oil filter. Investing in a quality filter from a reputable brand will offer better protection for your engine.

We use only high-quality oil filters designed to protect your engine and keep it running smoothly. We’ll help you choose the right filter for your vehicle and ensure it’s installed correctly.

How to Replace an Oil Filter

If you’re a DIYer, replacing your oil filter can be a simple task, but it requires care to do it correctly. Here’s a quick overview of how it’s done:

• Drain the old oil: Before replacing the oil filter, you’ll need to drain the old oil from the engine.
• Remove the old filter: Use an oil filter wrench to unscrew the old filter and remove it from the engine.
• Install the new filter: Before installing the new filter, apply a thin layer of oil to the gasket to ensure a tight seal. Screw the new filter into place by hand.
• Add fresh oil: Once the new filter is in place, refill the engine with fresh oil.

While replacing an oil filter can be a DIY project for some, it’s important to make sure the job is done right. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, or just want peace of mind in a job well done, we’re here to help. 

Bring your car in, and we’ll take care of everything—from oil changes to filter replacements—so you can get back on the road with confidence.

Keep Your Engine Clean and Healthy

Your car’s oil filter plays a vital role in keeping your engine running smoothly, and regular replacements are a key part of your car’s maintenance plan. By replacing your oil filter on schedule, you’ll enjoy better engine performance, extended engine life, and improved fuel efficiency.

We’re dedicated to helping you keep your car in top condition. Schedule an oil change and filter replacement with us today, and let’s make sure your engine stays clean and healthy for miles to come!