How Often Should a Car's Filter Be Replaced?
3 Answers
Replace the car's filter every 20,000 kilometers. Replacing the oil filter: Replace the oil filter and fuel filter. This prevents impurities from mixing into the engine during use and avoids oil line blockages. Generally, semi-synthetic oil should be replaced every 5,000-8,000 kilometers, synthetic oil every 8,000-10,000 kilometers, and mineral oil should not exceed 5,000 kilometers. Replacing the air filter: Replace the air filter if it wasn't changed during the 10,000-kilometer maintenance. It must be replaced at the 20,000-kilometer maintenance. The air filter prevents dust particles from being sucked into the engine during the intake process. If it was replaced at 10,000 kilometers, it can be cleaned. Checking the brake pads: Inspect the car's brake pads for severe wear or oil contamination. Brake pads are generally replaced every 30,000-50,000 kilometers, but should be checked at 20,000 kilometers. Ask the mechanic how much longer they can be used. If the brakes fail, it can lead to serious and unsafe consequences.
Having driven for over 20 years, I know well that filter replacement depends on specific conditions. The air filter is typically recommended to be changed every 10,000 to 15,000 kilometers or once a year; for me, driving often on dusty rural roads, I replace it every six months. The cabin air filter is even more critical—changing it every 1-2 years ensures fresh air inside, especially for those with allergies. A dirty cabin air filter not only slows airflow but also creates unpleasant odors, affecting driving mood. Failing to replace the engine air filter on time can increase fuel consumption and even damage the engine. I must remind everyone that the new car manual is the baseline, but actual driving conditions and air quality determine whether to adjust the frequency. Make it a habit to check the filter’s dirt level every quarter—just unscrew the cover to inspect it visually, no need to wait for the mileage target. Also, when replacing filters, choose OEM or properly sized products to avoid leaks and inefficiency from mismatched dimensions, ensuring smoother vehicle operation.
As a health-conscious individual who values quality of life, I adhere to a regular schedule for replacing my car's cabin air filter to enhance in-cabin comfort. Typically, I change the cabin air filter every 10,000 kilometers or annually, though in heavily polluted urban areas, it's advisable to shorten this interval to 8,000 kilometers. Replacing the filter effectively captures dust, pollen, and bacteria, reducing respiratory issues. Seasonal changes significantly impact filter performance; the optimal replacement time is during spring and autumn transitions to prevent summer AC malfunctions. The engine air filter is equally crucial—I replace mine every 10,000 kilometers to safeguard engine performance. Neglecting filters leads to system inefficiency, slower AC cooling, and potential mold growth. I recommend combining filter inspections with annual vehicle check-ups—a habitual practice that saves money and ensures peace of mind. Always prioritize reputable brands when purchasing filters to guarantee quality, ensuring smoother and healthier driving.
