How often should the engine oil filter be replaced?
2 Answers
Engine oil filters should be replaced every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers driven. It is recommended to replace the oil filter every time the engine oil is changed. The reason is that contaminants in the old oil filter can reduce the viscosity and cleanliness of the new oil, affect the oil circulation speed, and also damage the engine. The oil filter, also known as the oil element, is used to remove impurities such as dust, metal particles, carbon deposits, and soot particles from the oil to protect the engine. Oil filters are divided into full-flow and bypass types. The full-flow filter is connected in series between the oil pump and the main oil passage, so it can filter all the lubricating oil entering the main oil passage. The bypass filter is connected in parallel with the main oil passage and only filters part of the lubricating oil pumped by the oil pump.
The frequency of replacing the oil filter usually follows the oil change interval. For most cars, it's recommended to change it every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers or every 6 months, depending on the vehicle's condition and driving habits. Personally, I think it's best to follow your car's manual since different models have varying designs. If you frequently use synthetic oil, you can stretch it to around 8,000 kilometers, but with mineral oil, you should change it more often. The oil filter's role is to remove impurities from the oil, preventing internal engine wear—otherwise, component lifespan may shorten. Since I mostly drive in city traffic with frequent stops and starts, the oil gets dirty faster, so I change both the oil and filter every 5,000 kilometers. Remember, regular maintenance saves money and prolongs engine health. Neglecting it can lead to oil pressure drops and major issues, costing much more in repairs. This small investment is worthwhile and crucial for daily driving safety.
