What is the function of engine oil and oil filter?
2 Answers
The function of engine oil and oil filter is to reduce the frictional resistance between the moving parts in the engine and minimize wear on the components. The oil is continuously delivered to the friction surfaces of the moving parts to form a lubricating film for lubrication. Engine oil inherently contains a certain amount of gum, impurities, water, and additives. During engine operation, the introduction of metal particles, airborne contaminants, and the formation of oil oxidation products gradually increase the impurities in the oil. The oil filter not only filters these impurities but also ensures the quality of the oil, such as viscosity, acid value, and the content of antioxidants. These indicators can deteriorate under long-term high-temperature operating conditions, so it is necessary to change the oil regularly to ensure these parameters remain within acceptable limits.
The engine oil and oil filter combo truly safeguards your engine's health. Engine oil primarily lubricates all moving parts like pistons and crankshafts, reducing friction wear and preventing overheating; it also cleans internal carbon deposits, carrying away dirt to maintain cleanliness. The oil filter acts like a strainer, trapping tiny metal particles, dust, and impurities in the oil to prevent them from circulating back into the engine and causing scratches or clogs. Both are indispensable – long-term neglect of oil and filter changes leads to dirty oil losing its lubricating effectiveness and saturated filters failing to clean, quickly resulting in engine trouble, increased noise, or even stalling. Having worked in auto shops for years, I've seen countless vehicles ruined prematurely due to neglected maintenance, causing heavy losses. Follow your maintenance manual's schedule – typically change every 5,000 to 10,000 km or six months. This small investment ensures engine longevity.
