What is the function of an oil filter?
2 Answers
An oil filter, also known as an oil strainer, serves the following main purposes: filtering the engine oil to improve its cleanliness and lubricity. It supplies clean oil to components such as the crankshaft, connecting rod, camshaft, turbocharger, and piston rings, providing lubrication, cooling, and cleaning effects. This helps reduce engine wear, optimize performance, and extend the lifespan of these components. Below is relevant information: Experts recommend replacing 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 oil circulation speed, and potentially damage the engine.
When I first started driving, I was curious about what an oil filter does. Later, I learned that it acts like a guardian for the engine, specifically cleaning out all kinds of dirt in the oil, such as metal shavings, dust, and other contaminants. Every time the engine runs, internal friction generates metal particles, and the oil filter traps them, ensuring the oil stays clean and lubricates all components. Otherwise, debris could get stuck in bearings or cylinder walls, accelerating wear and potentially causing the engine to fail prematurely. I remember the first time I didn’t change the oil filter, it got clogged, oil pressure dropped, and the car felt sluggish. Regularly replacing it, along with oil changes, can extend the engine’s lifespan and save money on major repairs. For beginners, forming this habit is crucial—it keeps the car running smoothly and reliably for a long time.
