Can You Change the Oil Filter Without Changing the Oil?

[FelixLee]

You cannot change only the oil filter without changing the oil. The most critical components of a car's lubrication system are the oil and the oil filter. The oil serves to lubricate, reduce damage, and minimize friction, while the oil filter functions to remove impurities from the oil. Both the oil and the oil filter are indispensable and should be replaced together during maintenance. The hazards of changing only the oil filter without changing the oil are as follows: 1. Reduced sealing effectiveness. High-quality oil with the appropriate viscosity can effectively seal the gaps between the cylinder block and the pistons, preventing gas leakage. If the oil is not changed for a long time, it can become watery and lose its sealing function. 2. Diminished cooling performance. Oil has far superior heat absorption and thermal conductivity compared to water. If the oil deteriorates severely, its cooling capability will be significantly reduced. 3. Prolonged failure to change the oil can lead to the accumulation of many impurities, such as metal shavings and large dust particles, which not only cause wear but also corrode internal engine components.