Can the Oil Filter Element Be Reused?
4 Answers
Car oil filter elements cannot be reused, as this may cause oil blockage, leading to abnormal engine operation. Function of the Oil Filter Element: The oil filter element filters the engine oil. During circulation within the engine, the oil inevitably accumulates impurities and particles, which the filter element removes. Without an oil filter, these particles would continuously circulate in the engine, accelerating wear and tear. Maintenance of the Oil Filter: Regularly clean and replace the oil filter element. Under normal usage, if the pre-filter's differential pressure alarm activates or after 300 hours of cumulative operation, the filter element should be replaced. For dual-tank parallel pre-filtration systems, replacement can be done without shutting down the engine. For single-tank pre-filtration systems: Close the inlet ball valve and open the top cover; unscrew the drain plug to completely drain the dirty oil; loosen the fastener nut at the top of the filter element, and while wearing oil-resistant gloves, grip the element and remove it vertically upwards; install the new filter element, ensuring the top sealing ring is properly placed (the bottom has a built-in seal), and tighten the nut; secure the drain plug, close the top cover (ensuring the seal is in place), and fasten the bolts. For dual-tank parallel pre-filtration systems: First, close the inlet valve of the filter to be replaced, wait a few minutes, then close the outlet valve, and unscrew the end cover bolts to open it; open the drain valve to completely remove dirty oil, preventing it from entering the clean oil chamber during replacement; loosen the fastener nut at the top of the filter element, and while wearing oil-resistant gloves, grip the element and remove it vertically upwards; install the new filter element, ensuring the top sealing ring is properly placed (the bottom has a built-in seal), and tighten the nut; close the drain valve, secure the top cover (ensuring the seal is in place), and fasten the bolts; open the inlet valve first, then the exhaust valve, and close the exhaust valve immediately once oil flows out, followed by opening the outlet valve; repeat the same procedure for the other filter.
I've been driving for over a decade, and I truly believe oil filters should never be reused. Every time I change the oil, I replace the filter as well—it's like the heart's filter for your car. After just one use, it gets clogged with sludge, metal shavings, and all sorts of grime. Even if you clean and reinstall it, the performance never returns to like-new condition. Those tiny pores get blocked, restricting oil flow, which leads to poor engine lubrication. The car feels sluggish, and fuel consumption spikes. I've had several instances where skipping the filter change triggered oil pressure warnings, costing me hundreds in repairs. Nowadays, filters are dirt cheap—just 30-40 yuan each. Replacing them is quick and effective. Compared to the thousands you might spend on major engine repairs from trying to save a few bucks, it's a no-brainer. Always swap the filter with the oil—it keeps your car running strong and gives you peace of mind.
As a car enthusiast, I always enjoy tinkering with maintenance myself. Last time, out of curiosity, I tried cleaning an old oil filter, only to find the engine noise increased. Testing revealed the filtration efficiency was almost zero. The paper medium inside the filter deforms and breaks after soaking in oil, and impurities can't be washed out properly, leading to worse clogging. Through this experience, I learned that filters are inherently disposable—manufacturers never designed them for reuse. Cleaning them is just a waste of time and may even damage other components. Online forums all emphasize this point: replacing the filter is low-cost and highly effective, and it should be done alongside oil changes. Don’t take the risk of letting impurities mix in and damage engine parts. Develop good habits to protect your car for longer.
I wanted to save money and once tried reusing an oil filter. But it didn't work—the old filter was too dirty, and even after cleaning, it still got clogged. The restricted oil flow caused increased engine wear, and my car ended up costing me much more in repairs. A new filter only costs a few dozen yuan, which is nothing compared to potential repair bills of hundreds. Changing the filter with the oil is worry-free and protects your car.
