What is the function of an automotive oil filter?
2 Answers
The function of an automotive oil filter is to remove impurities, gum, and moisture from the engine oil, delivering clean oil to various lubrication points. The method for replacing an automotive oil filter is as follows: 1. Warm up the engine; 2. Use a machine to extract the old oil; 3. Remove the old oil filter and replace it with a new one; 4. Add new oil. The working principle of an oil filter: As impurities accumulate on the filter paper, the permeability of the filter paper continuously decreases, and the flow resistance increases, causing the oil pressure on the outer side of the filter paper to rise. When the oil pressure is sufficient to open the bypass valve, the oil no longer passes through the filter paper but directly enters the central tube through the bypass valve, then flows out from the oil outlet in the middle of the oil filter base plate and into the engine lubrication system to participate in lubrication.
The oil filter is that small component in the car engine responsible for cleaning the engine oil. Think about it: when the engine runs, friction generates metal shavings, carbon deposits, and other debris, which mix into the oil and circulate. The filter acts like a fine sieve, trapping all these contaminants. This keeps the oil clean, lubricating internal parts and reducing wear to extend engine life. If the filter gets clogged or isn't replaced on time, impurities accumulate, not only increasing fuel consumption but also potentially causing a drop in oil pressure, engine overheating, or even complete failure. From my driving experience, it's essential to replace the oil filter every 5,000 kilometers or six months when changing the oil—it's a small cost that saves big on major repairs. Don't think it's unimportant; there are countless examples of engines failing prematurely due to neglect. Just paying a little attention during maintenance can prevent this.
