Can You Change Engine Oil Without Replacing the Filter?
2 Answers
It is not advisable to change the engine oil without replacing the oil filter. Here are the specific reasons why the filter should be replaced: 1. Reasons for not skipping the filter replacement: The oil filter is designed to remove various impurities from the oil, primarily metal shavings from mechanical wear and tear, as well as sludge and other contaminants. The engine oil pump draws oil from the oil pan, passes it through the filter for purification, and then directs it into the main oil passage in the engine block. From the main oil passage, the oil is distributed in two directions—one to the cylinder head and the other to the engine block—to lubricate components like the camshaft, valves, crankshaft, connecting rods, and pistons. Failing to replace the filter can lead to clogging. 2. Hazards of not replacing the filter: The oil filter contains a check valve that prevents the oil inside the filter from draining out. This can result in the mixing of old and new oil, accelerating oil degradation. Since the oil filter is installed in the oil's mandatory flow path, all oil must pass through it whenever the engine is running. If the filter is not replaced and becomes dirty, the bypass valve in the oil filter will open to ensure continued lubrication of the engine. However, this allows unfiltered oil, containing metal shavings and impurities, to enter the main oil passage and lubricate moving parts, which significantly increases engine wear.
I've been driving for decades, and skipping the oil filter change during an oil change is a big no-no, my friend. The filter is like the cleaner for your engine – an old, clogged one full of metal shavings and grime will just contaminate the new oil you pour in, actually wearing down the engine. I remember one time I got lazy and didn’t change the filter, and the oil turned black as ink after just a few thousand kilometers, with the engine noise getting louder. It cost me over a thousand bucks to fix. Don’t skimp on this small expense during regular maintenance – filters only cost a few dozen bucks. Change the filter every time you change the oil to protect the engine and extend its life. Even worse, if the filter gets completely blocked, the oil can’t circulate, and your car might just die on the road, causing way bigger trouble. Make it a habit to check during every maintenance session to avoid regrets later. Bottom line: cutting corners will cost you more in the long run – don’t gamble with safety.
