Can You Change the Oil Filter Without Changing the Oil?
3 Answers
It is not advisable to change only the oil without replacing the oil filter in a car. Here are specific details about the oil filter: 1. Introduction: The oil filter, short for oil cleaner, removes impurities such as dust, metal particles, carbon deposits, and soot particles from the oil, supplying clean oil to moving parts like the crankshaft, connecting rod, camshaft, turbocharger, and piston rings. It plays a role in lubrication, cooling, and cleaning, thereby extending the lifespan of these components. 2. Efficiency: After being used for a period, the filter element accumulates sludge and metal debris, reducing its filtering efficiency and significantly decreasing the oil pressure passing through the filter. 3. Working Principle: When the oil pressure drops to a certain level, the oil filter bypass valve opens, allowing unfiltered oil to enter the oil circuit through the bypass. The impurities carried can increase wear on mechanical parts and, in severe cases, may clog the oil passages, leading to mechanical failures.
You can't just change the oil filter without replacing the engine oil—that's quite risky. Over time, engine oil becomes dirty and acidic, losing its ability to properly lubricate the engine. If you install a new oil filter but continue using old oil, it will quickly clog with contaminants, restricting oil flow and potentially causing engine overheating and wear. With decades of driving experience, I've seen people try to save money by only replacing the filter, only to end up with engine knocking soon after—repair costs far exceeded a simple oil change. Proper maintenance requires changing both. The oil is the core protective layer, while the filter plays a supporting role. Regularly check every 5,000 km or six months—don't compromise overall engine longevity by only replacing individual components.
It's not advisable to change the oil filter without replacing the engine oil. As oil ages, its viscosity changes, impurities accumulate, and it loses lubricity. A new oil filter paired with dirty oil will quickly fail, potentially causing unstable oil pressure and damaging the engine. I've only owned my car for two years, but once I tried to save money by skipping an oil change, and the loud startup noise afterward really scared me. Vehicle maintenance requires a systematic approach—manufacturers recommend simultaneous replacement for both cost-effectiveness and safety. Developing a habit of timely maintenance helps avoid turning minor issues into major problems.
