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Just like you wouldn’t run a marathon without proper hydration, your car also needs regular maintenance to stay happy and healthy. One of the key ways of keeping your car running smoothly is by changing the oil and filter. Understanding the essentials of this can help you to keep your vehicle running efficiently.
An oil filter essentially acts like the engine’s personal bodyguard. It’s your engine’s first line of defence against contaminants (such as dirt, particles, metal shavings and other debris) that build up in the engine oil. The oil filter traps these contaminants before they can cause any issues, protecting it from potential damage.
This gunk can come from a few sources:
Dirt and debris: tiny particles sneak in past the air filter and get into the oil
Metal shavings: as engine parts rub together, microscopic bits of metal wear off.
Combustion byproducts: The burning of fuel creates soot and other particles that contaminate the oil.
Think of your oil filter like a coffee filter for your car’s engine. It lets the good stuff (clean oil) through to lubricate everything properly, while catching the bad stuff (contaminants) that could clog up the works.
Car oil filter change intervals vary. While some manufacturers recommend replacing the oil filter every other oil change (meaning that if you change your oil at 5,000 km, you will change the filter every 10,000 km), adhering to your vehicle’s specific maintenance schedule outlined in your car’s owner’s manual is crucial. These intervals consider factors like oil type, engine design and typical driving conditions (motorway vs stop and go traffic). If in doubt, consulting a qualified service centre for a personalised recommendation is advisable.
Considerations for when you change the oil filter include:
Quality of the Oil Filter: High quality oil filters are designed to last longer and can handle more contaminants, making them suitable for use over two oil change intervals.
Driving Conditions: If you mostly drive under normal conditions (short trips, moderate climate, low traffic) the oil filter may not accumulate as many contaminants as it would under severe driving conditions (long trips, extreme temperatures, heavy traffic).
Type of Oil Used: Using high quality synthetic oil, which has better performance and longevity compared to conventional oil, can also extend the interval between oil filter changes.
Vehicle Manufacturer’s Guidelines: Always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
Engine oil is the lifeblood of your car. Your car’s engine relies on clean oil and a functioning filter to perform at its best.
An old, clogged filter becomes a breeding ground for harmful particles like dirt and metal shavings. These contaminants, instead of being trapped, freely circulate through your engine, causing increased wear and tear on vital components. Clogged filters can also restrict oil flow, forcing your engine to work harder to circulate the oil it needs. This can result in decreased fuel efficiency.
In the worst-case scenario, a completely blocked filter can lead to a catastrophic drop in oil pressure which essentially starves your engine of lubrication, potentially leading to complete failure.
In short: regular oil filter changes are a small price to pay for extended engine life and optimal performance. It’s always better to prevent problems than pay for repairs later.
Keeping your car running smoothly starts with having the right oil and filter working in harmony. Using the correct oil and filter ensures proper lubrication, cooling and cleaning of engine parts, leading to better overall health and performance.
Changing your car’s oil and filter can feel like a messy chore. That’s where service centres offer a convenient and hassle-free alternative. Certified technicians take the guesswork out of the process. They’ll ensure the right oil and filter are used for your specific vehicle, maximising performance and engine life. Trained professionals also have a keen eye for spotting potential problems during the service and can identify minor issues early on, saving you from bigger headaches down the road. Furthermore, used oil and filters are hazardous waste. Professional services ensure proper disposal that considers the environment.
At Al Tayer Motors, we offer a comprehensive aftersales service that guarantees your car receives the best service possible, leaving you with more time to focus on the open road (and less time with greasy hands!).
Most manufacturers recommend changing your oil filters about every 5,000 km to 10,000 km (or once per year). Synthetic oil, which is a more robust option, can often go longer. Your car’s owner’s manual and a professional mechanic are the ultimate authority. They consider factors like your engine type and typical driving conditions to provide the most accurate recommendations for both oil changes and filter replacements.
Many modern cars now have built-in maintenance reminders, but you can also set phone or calendar alerts to avoid forgetting. You can also track and keep a record of your mileage to help you know when your next oil change and filter change is due. In general, be aware of performance changes as a dirty oil filter can affect your car’s performance. If you notice a decrease in fuel efficiency or unusual engine noises, it might be time for a change.
For more detailed guidelines and tips on car maintenance, check out Al Tayer Motor’s comprehensive guide.