Can You Change the Oil Without Replacing the Filter?
3 Answers
You cannot change the oil without replacing the filter. The filter's role is to remove impurities from the engine oil. Over time, these impurities can cause blockages. Additionally, a certain amount of oil remains inside the filter. If you only change the oil without replacing the filter, the new oil will mix with the old oil, reducing the oil's lifespan. Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, serves multiple functions such as lubrication, reducing friction, aiding in cooling, sealing against leaks, preventing rust and corrosion, and acting as a shock absorber. It is often referred to as the 'blood' of a car. The oil filter, or oil purifier, filters out debris, sludge, and moisture from the oil, ensuring clean oil is delivered to all lubrication points.
As a new car owner, I remember being quite confused about this issue when I first bought my car. Later, after talking with friends who know about cars, I realized that not changing the oil filter is really not a good idea. The main function of the oil filter is to remove impurities and metal particles from the oil, keeping it clean. If you only change the oil but not the filter, the accumulated dirt in the old filter will directly contaminate the new oil, significantly reducing its effectiveness. This can lead to insufficient lubrication of the engine, increasing wear on internal components like bearings and pistons. Over time, this practice can raise the engine's failure rate, and the repair costs will far exceed the price of a new filter. It's recommended to replace the filter during every maintenance session, typically every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers along with the oil change. According to my car's manual, the manufacturer also explicitly recommends this practice, which can extend the engine's lifespan by five to six years or more. Developing this good habit will also give you more peace of mind while driving.
I've been in the auto repair business for over a decade, dealing with customers every day. When it comes to skipping oil filter changes during oil changes, I sincerely advise against saving those few bucks. The filter acts like a cleaner, specifically filtering out contaminants in the oil, and it becomes saturated and clogged over time. If you don't replace it, the new oil gets instantly contaminated upon entering, causing unstable oil pressure and accelerated engine component wear. I've seen too many cases: one driver saved 20 yuan on a filter, only to hear engine knocking within months, ultimately spending 3,000 yuan on a crankshaft overhaul. Filters are low-cost, usually just a small portion of the oil change expense, but the risks are substantial. Always replace the filter with every oil change – OEM parts are best to ensure high filtration efficiency. Developing regular maintenance habits significantly benefits your vehicle's performance and longevity.
