How Often Should Air and Oil Filters Be Replaced?
3 Answers
In most cases, the oil filter should be replaced approximately every 5,000 kilometers, the air filter every 15,000 kilometers under normal conditions, and the cabin air filter every 20,000 kilometers under normal circumstances. The replacement interval primarily depends on the quality of the oil filter used. If it's a genuine OEM part, it's advisable to follow the requirements specified in the user manual. Relevant information about oil filters is as follows: 1. Function of the oil filter: The oil filter, often referred to as the 'kidney of the engine,' filters out impurities and supplies clean oil to the engine, reducing friction wear and prolonging the engine's lifespan. 2. Replacement intervals for oil filters: For mineral oil, replace every 3,000-4,000 kilometers or every six months; for semi-synthetic oil, replace every 5,000-6,000 kilometers or every six months; for full synthetic oil, replace every eight months or every 8,000-10,000 kilometers.
I've been driving for over a decade, and changing the air filter and oil filter is something you really can't take lightly. As for the air filter, it's usually best to replace it every 10,000 to 15,000 kilometers. The oil filter should be replaced along with the oil change, roughly every 5,000 to 8,000 kilometers. In cities with lots of dust or areas where you frequently drive on dirt roads, the air filter should be changed more often to avoid clogging—otherwise, the engine won't breathe well, leading to higher fuel consumption and sluggish acceleration. If you don’t replace the oil filter on time, impurities in the oil will increase, speeding up engine wear. Once, I forgot to change the air filter, and my car started making a buzzing noise with reduced power. It wasn’t until I took it to the shop that the problem was discovered. So, I recommend keeping track of your mileage and checking the air filter when you change the oil—it’s convenient, gives peace of mind, and prevents minor issues from turning into major repairs.
Replacing the air filter and oil filter is crucial for your car's performance. A dirty air filter restricts airflow, causing the engine to lack sufficient air, resulting in reduced horsepower and poor driving performance. A faulty oil filter disrupts oil circulation, increasing friction inside the engine. I typically replace the air filter every year or 12,000 kilometers, while the oil filter follows the oil change interval, usually every 5,000 to 7,000 kilometers. In areas with poor air quality, such as near construction sites, I replace the air filter earlier, around 8,000 kilometers. Don’t delay replacement to save a few bucks—installing fresh filters ensures smoother engine operation, quieter noise levels, and better fuel efficiency. Regularly check the condition of your filters; it’s simple to pop open the engine bay and inspect them. This easy maintenance keeps your beloved car running strong for the long haul.
