Does a Flush Machine Oil Change Require Filter Replacement?
3 Answers
The concept of replacing the filter applies only to engine oil changes. However, engine oil changes do not require the use of a flush machine. Only transmission fluid involves replacement via a flush machine, but transmission fluid does not have a filter at all. Additional information: Here are details on automotive transmission fluid replacement: 1. The replacement interval for automatic transmission fluid is every 2 years or 40,000 kilometers. 2. Due to the highly precise internal structure of automatic transmissions and the high cost of repairs, coupled with the fact that the commonly used gravity drain method cannot fully replace the fluid, it is crucial not to delay automatic transmission fluid changes to avoid greater losses. 3. The transmission fluid replacement points are located on the transmission housing with two bolts: the upper bolt serves as the fill port, and the lower bolt is the drain port.
As a long-time car enthusiast, I always replace the oil filter when using a circulation machine for oil changes. The reason is simple: the oil filter is the guardian of the engine, specifically designed to block metal shavings, dust, and impurities in the oil. If you don't replace it, the accumulated contaminants in the old filter will directly pollute the newly added oil. This not only wastes the purpose of circulation oil changes—which is to more thoroughly remove old oil—but also prevents the new oil from flowing into critical engine parts. I've learned my lesson a few times from not replacing the filter: in the short term, the engine noise increased, oil pressure became unstable, and parts almost got damaged. Replacing the filter is inexpensive, costing just a few dozen bucks, but it ensures smooth circulation of the new oil and extends the car's lifespan. Don't overlook this small detail—it's a fundamental part of maintenance.
I remember when I first learned about car maintenance years ago, a friend helped me change the oil using a flushing machine but forgot to replace the filter. Within less than a month, the car struggled to accelerate, and a check at the repair shop revealed the filter was completely clogged, with old contaminants flowing back and ruining the new oil. Since then, I've developed a habit: every oil change includes a filter replacement, even though the flushing machine can replace oil more efficiently. Filters aren't permanent; they wear out over time, especially during the flushing process where new oil passing through an old filter can actually cause more harm. Now I do it myself to ensure both oil and filter are changed. Though it's a bit more hassle, it saves me from major repairs and protects the engine. After developing this regular replacement habit, my car has run over a hundred thousand kilometers and still performs as smoothly as new.
