The oil filter is one of the core components of the engine lubrication system. It acts like the "liver" of the human body, filtering harmful impurities in the oil to ensure the cleanliness of the engine interior, thereby reducing wear and extending the service life. If its maintenance is neglected, the engine may "age" prematurely due to the accumulation of impurities.

The core role of the oil filter

1. Intercept pollutants

When the engine is running, the oil will carry metal debris, carbon deposits, dust and other impurities in circulation. The oil filter intercepts these particles through high-precision filter media (such as filter paper or synthetic fibers) to prevent them from entering the engine.

2. Reduce friction and wear

Clean oil can form an effective lubricating film to reduce the friction between precision parts such as pistons and crankshafts. If the filter fails, impurities enter the friction pair, which will accelerate engine wear and even cause serious faults such as cylinder scuffing.

3. Extend the life of the oil

Oil will gradually oxidize under high temperature and high pressure and mix with combustion residues. The filter can delay the deterioration of the oil and keep it at its best performance during the replacement cycle.

Common types of oil filters

1. Spin-on filter

o The most common type, with a metal shell that is screwed directly onto the engine filter seat.

o Easy to replace, but the entire filter needs to be discarded after use.

2. Cartridge filter

o Only the filter element is replaced, and the shell can be reused, which is more environmentally friendly.

o More common in high-end models, but the replacement steps are slightly complicated.

3. Magnetic filter

o Built-in magnets can absorb metal particles in the oil, suitable for high-load or old engines. 

how often to change oil filter?

✅ Regular replacement cycle

• Every time the oil is changed (usually every 5,000-10,000 kilometers, refer to the vehicle manual for details).

• If you use long-life oil, it is also recommended to replace the filter at the same time to avoid it becoming a shortcoming.

⚠️ Warning signs of filter blockage

• The engine noise becomes louder and the operation is not smooth

• The oil pressure warning light is on

• The power decreases and the fuel consumption increases

• The oil becomes black and the impurities increase significantly

Do-it-yourself filter replacement (simple guide)

Tool preparation

• New oil filter (matching vehicle model)

• New oil (conforming to manufacturer standards)

• Filter wrench (or chain-type removal tool)

• Oil pan, gloves, funnel, rag

Steps

1. Drain the old oil from a hot car

o Start the engine and run for 2 minutes to thin the oil (easier to drain), then turn it off.

o Catch it in an oil pan, unscrew the oil drain screw, and drain the old oil.

2. Remove the old filter

o Unscrew the old filter counterclockwise with a filter wrench (note that residual oil will flow out).

o Key check: Make sure the rubber seal of the old filter has been completely removed to avoid oil leakage after the new filter is installed!

3. Install the new filter

o Apply a thin layer of new oil to the seal of the new filter (to enhance sealing).

o Tighten by hand until it fits snugly, then tighten with a tool for 1/2~3/4 turn (do not overtighten!).

4. Add new engine oil

o Pour new engine oil through a funnel, refer to the manual for the amount.

o Start the engine and run for 1 minute, check the filter and drain screw for oil leakage.

5. Waste disposal

o Old engine oil and filters are hazardous waste and must be sent to a professional recycling point.

Precautions & Common Misunderstandings

• Filter quality is crucial

Poor-quality filters may use cheap filter paper, have poor filtering effect, or even break, causing impurities to enter the engine.

• Do not "change the oil without changing the filter"

The old filter has absorbed a lot of impurities. If it continues to be used, the new oil will be contaminated quickly.

• The installation force should be moderate

Over-tightening may damage the seal ring and cause oil leakage; tightening too loose may cause it to fall off.

Benefits of regular replacement

✔ Extend engine life - reduce wear and avoid overhaul

✔ Improve power response - clean engine oil ensures lubrication efficiency

✔ Save fuel - reduce engine running resistance

Summary

• The oil filter is small, but it is the "first line of defense" of the engine. Replacing it regularly is not expensive, but it can save high maintenance costs in the future.

Nanjing Dongsun Tech Co., Ltd. is a company dedicated to the research, development, production, and sales of automotive environment-protection products and related new energy technologies. We are committed to providing high-quality automotive spare parts to global customers, including automotive filters and new energy vehicle charging accessories, covering various models and brands. As a professional automotive products company, we have established solid partnerships with customers worldwide, offering comprehensive products and premium services.

Our main products include but are not limited to the following categories:

Air Filters, Oil Filters, Fuel Filters, Cabin Air Filters, Charging Stations, Charging Connectors/Adapters, Charging Cables, Charging Accessories etc. Welcome to contact us for more products