


Your car's engine relies on the smooth flow of clean oil to keep its many moving parts lubricated and running efficiently. This is where the oil filter plays a crucial role. It removes contaminants from the oil to protect your engine from wear and tear.
However, oil filters don't last forever. They can become clogged under certain conditions and even deteriorate before the next oil change is due. This is why understanding the signs of a struggling oil filter is crucial for protecting your engine.
How to Tell if Your Oil Filter is Clogged
Unfortunately, there's no easy way to tell if your oil filter is clogged and needs replacing. That’s because most oil filters have a bypass valve designed to ensure oil flow even if the filter is completely blocked. While this protects the engine from immediate failure, it means the oil is no longer properly filtered without you noticing. The good news is that regular oil and filter changes, according to your vehicle's owner's manual, often prevent this from happening.
Clogged Oil Filter Symptoms
Keep an eye on the check engine and oil lights on your dashboard, as well as any decrease in engine performance, since these signs can indicate a clogged oil filter. Not every car will show these symptoms, and their severity can vary. Some of these signs may also overlap with other potential engine problems. Always get a proper diagnosis from a mechanic if you experience these symptoms.
Check Engine Light or Oil Light Is On
The oil light is the most reliable and manufacturer-intended signal to get your oil and filter changed. This light comes on when your vehicle has low oil pressure, which could be caused by several factors, including a clogged oil filter. Moreover, the reduction in oil flow can damage critical engine components over time, which can cause the engine control unit to turn on the malfunction indicator light (check engine light).
Reduced Engine Performance
When the oil pressure is low, your car may experience a decrease in engine performance. Changes in your engine's typical sound could also indicate reduced lubrication due to a clogged oil filter. While not always caused by a contaminated oil filter, any ticking, knocking, or unusual engine noises warrant getting your vehicle checked by a mechanic.
How a Clogged Oil Filter Affects Your Car
A clogged oil filter allows dirty oil to circulate through the engine, increasing wear on bearings, pistons, and other vital internal parts. This can shorten engine life. In extreme situations where a filter is neglected far beyond its intended lifespan, severe symptoms like engine sputtering, overheating, and even total engine failure can occur, but this is unlikely if you adhere to your vehicle's maintenance schedule.
Avoid Clogged Oil Filter
Regular maintenance is key to preventing clogged oil filters. Oil filters are designed to last for a specific oil change interval. If you wait too long between oil changes, the filter will become overloaded with contaminants and clog. That's why you must adhere to your vehicle's recommended oil change intervals and always change your filter at the same time. Be aware that if you frequently drive off-road or on dusty roads, your oil filter will have to work harder to remove contaminants from the oil, necessitating more frequent changes compared to a filter used under normal conditions.
Questions? We're here to help. Reach out the FRAM specialists for product and maintenance support.
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