02
May, 2019
Signs That You Need to Replace Your Oil Filter
A change of oil filter is one of the most critical maintenance jobs when it comes to your car. Checking your oil filter during regular car services is paramount to keeping your engine healthy.
But how do you know when it’s time to replace your oil filter?
The Symptoms of a Damaged Oil Filter
Your oil filter traps billions of contaminants over the years, gradually clogging it with tiny particles. Eventually, the filter will become so blocked that clean oil won’t be able to pass through the filter and into the engine. At this point, you may notice signs that mean you need a new oil filter:
Your Engine Is Overheating
If your filter is so clogged that oil can’t pass through, the oil will not be able to lubricate the engine parts. This can cause friction between moving parts, which will generate heat. You might hear metallic-like noises too.
You Notice a Decline in Your Car's Performance
A build-up of contaminants will diminish the engine’s capacity to generate power.
Your Exhaust Fumes are Dirty
If your exhaust fumes are dark in colour, your oil filter may be clogged and causing the oil to leak into your exhaust system. You may also notice a burning odour.
Your Oil Pressure Decreases
A clogged oil filter may prevent oil from passing through into the engine, causing low oil pressure. You might also find oil leaks under your vehicle.
Why Does My Oil Filter Need to Be Replaced?
Oil filters deteriorate over time, but there are some factors that can cause them to become clogged or damaged more quickly than average:
- Poor-quality or incorrect lubricants have been used
- The filter has been incorrectly installed
- The filter hasn’t been used in compliance with the T&Cs of service
- The filter seals are impaired
- The vehicle is driven aggressively, particularly when the engine is cold
If you identify damage to the oil filter that isn’t from regular wear and tear, you should also check your vehicle’s lubrication system.
Servicing Your Oil Filter
As the oil filter is sealed under the bonnet, it can be difficult to tell whether it needs to be replaced from a quick visual check. If you don’t realise in time, a clogged oil filter can lead to premature engine damage.
To avoid this, it’s advisable to book your car in for a service once a year or after every 12,000 miles. Alternatively, you can regularly self-service your car to keep on top of any emerging problems.
DIY Car Service Parts make self-servicing easy. Not sure which oil filters are best for your vehicle? Just type your number plate into our vehicle lookup tool, and we’ll identify the best filters for you.
All DIY car service parts are manufactured by trusted, high-quality brands. Here are just a few of the brands that we stock.
About DIY Car Service Parts
Whether you’re changing your own car parts or saving costs by providing them to your local garage, DIY Car Service Parts is the ultimate site for easily identifying the vehicle parts that you need.
DIY Car Service Parts isn’t just about accessing car parts from the best brands at the lowest prices. With over 35 years’ experience in the automotive industry, we are experts in the car parts field. Our specialist team is on hand to answer any of your queries and offer valuable advice so that you can understand more about the ways that your car works and get savvy under the bonnet.
