Engine oil filter: everything you need to know

Car owners often receive vastly different advice regarding their vehicle's oil filter.

Often, the owner's manual, the auto parts supplier, and the mechanic have different opinions, which adds to the insecurity when making decisions.

The reality is that when it comes to oil and filters, there are several right answers because drivers, driving conditions, and driving styles all vary.

In this article, we will clarify what an engine oil filter is and how or when to replace it.

We cannot talk about oil filter without talking about engine oil.

Oil is an important fluid for the health of any vehicle's engine. It acts as a lubricant, coating all internal engine moving parts to prevent metal-to-metal contact that could lead to failure. Motor oil also helps regulate engine temperature.

However, over time it loses its properties, deteriorating until it is no longer able to effectively perform its function of lubricating various engine components.

There are many factors that cause oil pollution. Most contaminants (sand, asphalt chips, etc.) are carried by the air and mixed in the engine oil.

In addition to dirt from the outside, the engine also "generates" its own impurities. Deterioration of some parts and combustion debris such as water vapor (which accumulates inside the engine when running at low temperatures), acids and carbon can also contaminate the oil.

Because of these contaminations, and to prevent damage to the vehicle, the engine is equipped with an oil filter.

If, as many say, your engine oil is the lifeblood of your engine, then the oil filter is your kidneys, primarily responsible for filtering out unwanted substances.

Generally speaking, engine oil filter changes are usually performed according to the manufacturer's manual, although it is ideal to change the oil every time, regardless of how many kilometers the car has traveled.

The tools (and safety equipment) required to replace an oil filter may vary by vehicle, but the most common are:

● Key to release the stopper from the oil plug;

● Removable filter with key;

● Iron sandpaper;

● Clean cloth;

● Containers for pouring waste oil;

● Oil vacuum cleaner;

● Gloves;

● Goggles.

Replacing an oil filter is simple, but skilled workers always ensure better results.

● Remove the oil supply cap and engine oil level indicator rod to better drain dirty oil;

● With the engine still hot, drain all oil through the sump drain;

● If possible, remove the filter by hand or using appropriate tools;

● Clean the sealing area of the engine block with a clean cloth;

● Check that the filter seal is seated correctly in its housing and lubricate lightly with engine oil;

● Install the filter on the machine head until the gasket contacts the engine sealing area;

● Squeeze about 3/4 turn;

● Add the recommended amount of oil to the engine.

● Open the car and check if there is an oil level indicator on the panel;

● After a few minutes, check the sealing area for oil leakage; if so, tighten again and check again.

To avoid breakdowns, the oil filter must be checked whenever the oil is changed or preventive maintenance is performed on the car.