How Often Should a Car's Oil Filter Be Replaced?
3 Answers
Generally, a car's oil filter should be replaced every 5,000-6,000 kilometers or every six months. Below are the specific steps for replacing an oil filter: 1. Drain the old oil: Place an oil drain pan and use a wrench to loosen the drain plug counterclockwise, allowing the old oil to flow out. 2. Remove the oil filter: After draining the old oil, open the engine oil cap and use an oil filter wrench to loosen the oil filter counterclockwise, then unscrew it from the engine compartment. 3. Reinstall the oil filter: Before installation, place a sealing ring over the oil outlet, then slowly screw on the new oil filter. Do not overtighten the filter; typically, hand-tighten it first, then use a wrench to tighten it an additional 3/4 turn. 4. Add new oil: Pour fresh oil into the engine oil tank.
Over the years of driving, I've always remembered to change the oil filter along with the engine oil, typically every 5,000 to 7,000 kilometers or every six months. Since my car often goes on long trips, the oil filter gets clogged with dust more easily, so I make it a habit to replace it every 5,000 kilometers during maintenance. Forgetting to change it can lead to dirty oil, severe engine carbon buildup, increased fuel consumption, and costly repairs. During cold starts in winter, an old oil filter might also cause unstable oil pressure, leading to squeaky noises while driving. I recommend checking the dipstick regularly—if the oil looks black, get it checked immediately. A new filter only costs a few dozen bucks, saving you both hassle and money. In short, sticking to the maintenance schedule is the most reliable approach—don't put it off.
As a car enthusiast, I understand that the oil filter's role is to remove impurities from the engine oil and protect the core components of the engine. The replacement frequency varies by vehicle: for stop-and-go city driving with more dust, it's recommended to change every 5,000 kilometers; during highway driving, it can last up to 8,000 kilometers. It's best to change it along with the engine oil to prevent contamination of the new oil by the old filter. Using full synthetic oil can extend the oil's lifespan, but the filter remains unchanged. In summer's high temperatures, the risk of oil filter clogging increases; in colder regions, timely replacement is even more crucial. Regularly check the oil's condition—take action if the color darkens. Maintaining this habit significantly improves the car's power and durability.
