How Often Should You Change Your Oil Filter?

How Often Should I Change an Oil Filter?

As a car owner, you probably know that changing your engine oil regularly is an essential part of vehicle maintenance. But what about the oil filter? How often should you change it? In this article, we'll explore the factors that influence oil filter lifespan and help you determine the right time to change your oil filter.

First, let's start with the basics: what does an oil filter do, and why is it important?

What does an oil filter do?

The oil filter is a critical component in your vehicle's engine. Over time, the motor oil accumulates dirt, debris, and other contaminants, which can cause damage to the engine's internal components. The oil filter works to remove such contaminants from the engine oil. This ensures that the oil flows freely and efficiently lubricates the engine's internal components, which is vital for maintaining the overall performance and health of your vehicle.

Why is it important to change your oil filter?

Over its service life, the filter media inside the oil filter becomes saturated with contaminants, reducing its ability to effectively filter the oil. If left unchanged, the filter will continue to allow oil to pass through, but its ability to clean the oil of dirt and other debris will allow contaminants to flow through the engine oil causing performance and durability problems.

That's why it's crucial to change your oil filter regularly. Several factors can influence how long an oil filter lasts. These include:

Driving conditions: If you frequently drive off-road or in dusty rural environments, your oil filter will have to work harder to remove contaminants from the oil, so it requires more frequent changes than a filter operating under normal conditions.
Type of filter: There are two main types of oil filters: cartridge and spin-on filters. Some oil filters have a longer lifespan than others, depending on their design and construction. They also offer varying levels of filtration efficiency and durability.
Type of oil: The type of engine oil you use can also impact your oil filter's lifespan. Synthetic oils, for example, tend to hold contaminants in suspension better than conventional oils, which can extend the oil and the filter's lifespan.
Vehicle make and model: Some vehicles' oil distribution systems have different oil flow characteristics, or are designed to be more efficient than others. Any of these changes can impact or extend your filter's lifespan.

How often should you change your oil filter?

In general, it is recommended to change your oil filter every time the oil is changed. This prevents the possibility of getting contaminants from an older oil filter into new oil. If you frequently drive in dusty or dirty environments, you may need to change your oil filter more frequently. On the other hand, if you primarily drive on the highway or in clean conditions, you may be able to extend the filter's lifespan.

To determine the right time to change your oil filter, you can also check your vehicle's owner's manual or consult with a trusted mechanic. They can advise you on the best oil filter for your vehicle and recommend a maintenance schedule that takes into account your driving habits and the specific needs of your car.

Replacing the oil filter is a fairly easy task that you can do yourself. Here is a guide that will teach you how to change your oil filter.

Benefits of changing your oil filter

Changing your oil filter regularly offers several benefits, including:

1. Protecting your engine: A clean oil filter ensures that the engine oil is free of contaminants, protecting the engine's internal components and extending its lifespan.

2. Improving engine performance: Clean oil and a clean oil filter can improve engine performance, helping your car run more smoothly and efficiently.

3. Preventing breakdowns: A clogged oil filter can reduce oil pressure, leading to engine damage and potentially expensive repairs.

4. Saving money: Regularly changing your oil filter can help you avoid costly engine repairs and extend the lifespan of your vehicle.

Maximize Engine Performance with FRAM

FRAM offers a wide range of oil filters for all types of vehicle models and driving conditions. In addition, most FRAM filters are designed with a silicone anti-drain back valve. This valve prevents the oil from draining out of the filter and back into the engine when the car is turned off, reducing engine wear at startup. FRAM filters also use a high-density filter media that captures and holds more contaminants than standard filters, ensuring that the oil flowing through your engine is clean and effective at lubricating internal components. Trust FRAM to deliver reliable and high-quality oil filters that safeguard your engine's longevity and performance.

Questions? We're here to help. Reach out the FRAM specialists for product and maintenance support.

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