How Does an Oil Filter Work? A Brief Guide
Check under the hood of your car, and you’ll find numerous electrical and mechanical components critical to the vehicle's performance. Among them is the oil filter, and whose purpose is to prevent contaminants and dirt from cycling through the engine, preventing a breakdown. But how does an oil filter work? In this guide from Take 5, we’ll deconstruct the inner workings of this essential automotive component.
Where Is the Oil Filter Located?
You can consult your owner's manual or a mechanic to pinpoint the filter’s exact location on your car. The oil filter is a cylindrical component for cars with combustion engines, typically located underneath the vehicle near the engine block. This placement provides easy access during oil changes and helps prevent oil from spilling into the engine.
How Does an Oil Filter Work?
As the engine runs, the oil pump circulates oil to lubricate its components. The oil collects dirt, metal fragments, and other contaminants that can compromise engine efficiency. This is where the oil filter comes into play, acting like the “kidneys” of your vehicle to filter out these contaminants and regulate fluid levels to keep your engine running smoothly.
The oil filter sits within a metal can with a sealing gasket that ensures a tight fit against the engine block and prevents leaks. When oil enters the filter, it passes through the base plate, which contains a central hole that directs the oil into the filter. Inside, the oil flows through the filter media, typically made from synthetic fibers or cellulose, to trap even the smallest particles.
The filter media captures contaminants while allowing clean oil to pass through. An anti-drain valve prevents the oil from draining back into the engine when it’s off, ensuring consistent oil flow during startup. After filtration, clean oil exits the filter through the outlet, providing clean lubrication to vital engine components.
Why Oil Filters Are Important in a Vehicle
Now that we’ve covered how an oil filter works, let’s talk about its importance. Oil filters are essential for keeping your vehicle’s engine in top shape. Here’s why this component is so important:
- Prevents Engine Wear: An oil filter reduces friction and wear on the engine by trapping dirt, metal particles, and other contaminants.
- Maintains Engine Efficiency: Clean oil helps your engine run more efficiently, leading to better performance and fuel economy.
- Protects Against Overheating: By removing debris, an oil filter helps prevent blockages that could lead to overheating.
- Extends Engine Life: A clean oil filter can prolong the life of your engine and reduce the risk of costly repairs.
How to Choose the Right Oil Filter for Your Car
Picking the right oil filter is simple and stress-free:
- Review the Manual: Your car’s manual will suggest the ideal filter.
- Choose the Right Type: Make sure the filter type matches your car’s needs.
- Focus on Quality: Higher-quality filters offer better engine protection.
- Check Oil Compatibility: Ensure the filter suits your oil type, whether synthetic or conventional.
How Often Should You Change an Oil Filter?
Auto professionals recommend replacing the oil filter at every oil change. This means changing the filter every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or every three to six months for most car owners. You should consult the manufacturer’s recommendations in your owner’s manual.
Some additional factors to consider are your driving conditions and vehicle usage. For example, replacing the oil filter more frequently is best if you regularly drive in severe weather conditions or on dusty roads.
Here are the most common signs that you need an oil filter replacement:
- Decreased Engine Performance: Sluggish acceleration and reduced engine power may indicate a clogged oil filter.
- Oil Pressure Issues: A clogged oil filter can impede the oil flow, triggering your vehicle's oil light to turn on.
- Unusual Engine Noises: A clogged oil filter restricts oil flow, and you may hear rumbling or grinding sounds from your engine as components wear against each other.
How Long Does an Oil and Filter Change Take?
On average, oil and filter changes can take 30-45 minutes to complete. However, at Take 5, we’ve streamlined the process to minimize our customers' wait times. With a dedicated team of experienced technicians, an oil change, including filters at Take 5 takes as little as 10 minutes.
During your visit, you’ll relax in the comfort of your vehicle while our team of expert technicians drain the old oil, replace the filter, and refill the engine with new, high-quality oil. Before hitting the road, we conduct inspections, top off vital fluids, and check your tire pressure to ensure optimal performance.
Find a Take 5 Oil Change Location Near You Today!
Is it time for an oil and filter change? Find a Take 5 Oil Change location near you today for fast, high-quality, and convenient oil changes! We guarantee you'll be back on the road in no time with our oil change aervices! You can also take advantage of our special oil change coupons to save on your next oil change!