Should the oil filter be replaced every time when changing engine oil?

[Bentley]

When changing engine oil, the oil filter should be replaced every time. If only the engine oil is replaced without changing the oil filter, the new oil will flow into the old filter, causing the new oil to mix with the old oil, which affects the lubrication performance of the new oil. Information about oil filters is as follows: 1. Oil filters can be classified by structure into replaceable, spin-on, and centrifugal types; by system layout into full-flow and bypass types. The filtration materials used in oil filters include filter paper, felt, metal mesh, and non-woven fabric. 2. The function of the oil filter is to remove harmful impurities from the oil coming from the oil pan, providing clean oil to components such as the crankshaft, connecting rod, camshaft, turbocharger, and piston rings for lubrication, cooling, and cleaning purposes, thereby extending the service life of these components.

[MaliaLynn]

I often do my own car maintenance, and changing the oil and oil filter is quite important. Every time I change the oil, I make sure to replace the oil filter because it accumulates metal shavings and dust. If not replaced, the newly added oil will be contaminated by these impurities, affecting lubrication performance and potentially leading to engine wear or failure in the long run. Although replacing the oil filter costs an extra few dozen yuan, compared to the thousands spent on an engine overhaul, it's a worthwhile investment. Especially when driving in the city with frequent starts and stops, the engine faces higher working pressure and needs cleaner oil. Of course, some high-end synthetic filters claim to last for two or three oil changes, but I generally don’t trust them—for safety, I replace them on schedule. Overall, developing this habit helps the car run longer and smoother, reducing future troubles, which also aligns with most automakers' official recommendations.

[McAnna]

From an average person's perspective, having driven for many years, I always change the oil filter when getting an oil change—no exceptions. The oil filter acts like a guardian for the engine oil. If you don’t replace the old filter when putting in fresh oil, the contaminants will still mix with the new oil, significantly reducing its effectiveness. Skipping it once might not feel like a big deal, but after a few times, you’ll notice increased engine noise or higher fuel consumption, and repairs will cost much more. I’ve done the math—spending a little extra on a new filter saves you from major headaches. Especially when driving in dusty areas, the filter clogs more easily and needs more frequent replacement. I recommend making it a habit to change the filter with every oil change—it saves time and gives peace of mind. Don’t forget to ask the repair shop about the quality of the filters they use; choosing a better one provides better protection for your car.

[VanIan]

Changing the oil filter is a standard procedure when replacing engine oil. The oil filter is responsible for capturing impurities in the oil. If you change the oil but not the filter, the contaminants will continue to circulate and damage engine components. It's like changing the water without replacing the filter—the water remains dirty. Replacing it during every maintenance service is a low-cost but high-benefit practice that ensures proper engine lubrication and longevity. Simply put, this step cannot be skipped, as it prevents minor issues from escalating into major failures.

[StAlexandra]

I always replace the oil filter during every oil change—safety first. The old filter accumulates sludge and particles; if not replaced, the new oil gets contaminated quickly, leading to lubrication failure and potential engine issues. In severe cases, oil pressure may drop, causing the engine to stall on the road—extremely dangerous. From a maintenance perspective, a degraded filter also affects overall vehicle performance. Regular checks help me avoid unexpected expenses. Remember this tip: always replace the filter with the oil—it saves money where it counts.