Is it necessary to replace the filter when changing engine oil?
2 Answers
Replacing the filter is necessary when changing engine oil. Below are the relevant details about the filter: 1. The performance of the oil filter directly affects the lubrication effect of the engine oil on the engine. 2. Therefore, every time the engine oil is changed, a qualified full-flow oil filter, specifically a paper filter element, must be replaced. The replacement cycle for both the engine oil and the oil filter is generally 5,000 kilometers. 3. If only new engine oil is replaced without changing the oil filter, the old oil and about one-fourth of the contaminants in the old filter will re-enter the oil circulation. This not only increases the chances of wear but also reduces the performance of the new engine oil.
I've been driving my own car for over a decade, and I always replace the oil filter when changing the oil—this is definitely not something to skimp on. The oil filter acts as the 'goalkeeper' for the engine oil, blocking impurities from entering. Old filters get clogged with dust, metal shavings, and other debris. If you skip replacing it, the fresh, clean oil you pour in will immediately mix with the old contaminants, doubling the engine wear. Once, I tried to save time by not replacing the filter, and within a few months, my car started shaking badly. When I took it to the shop, they found severe lubrication issues, costing me thousands in repairs. Typically, the oil filter's lifespan matches the oil change interval—replace it every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers. It’s not expensive, just a few dozen bucks, which is nothing compared to major repair costs. Mechanics usually replace it automatically during an oil change, but it's good to remind them just in case. Developing good maintenance habits like this keeps your car running smoothly for years.
