How to understand Your Car - Oil Filter

The function of the oil filter element

The oil filter element, also known as the oil filter, is used to filter out metal debris, combustion residues such as soot, dirt (which may rub into the hydraulic system), or solid particles formed in the oil due to aging, reducing part wear, keeping the oil clean, and extending the service life of the engine.

Classification of oil filters There are currently two types of oil filter elements based on their appearance.

Iron shell oil filter element

This filter element includes: upper cover and lower cover, bypass valve, inspection valve, paper filter element, central filter screen, sealing ring, etc.
When replacing this filter element, simply loosen it to the appropriate torque and replace it with a new one. There is no need for an additional oil filter element housing.

Paper oil filter element

This paper filter element is composed of the following parts: filter paper, plastic upper and lower covers (some of which are available), sealant, ring wire, etc
This type of filter requires a dedicated filter bracket for placement
In fact, the functions of the two types of filter elements are basically the same; both are filter papers. As long as the filtering effect of the filter paper and the overall pressure resistance effect are guaranteed, it can be said that a qualified oil filter element has been used. Depending on the vehicle model and series, there are two types of filter elements used in the market.

Replacement cycle

It is recommended that the oil filter element be replaced together with the engine oil each time. The replacement cycle may vary by vehicle model. You can refer to the vehicle's user manual for daily maintenance. It is recommended not to exceed 10% of the designated replacement mileage

Reference conditions

When choosing an oil filter element, in addition to the necessary vehicle model matching, the following aspects should also be considered (because the main filtering function of the shell filter element also comes from the filter paper, all the following content is based on the paper filter element as a reference premise).

Fiber filter paper has a good filtering effect and can filter very small particles

1. Low flow pressure difference ensures there is sufficient oil flow to lubricate the engine
2. The filter paper has a large filtration area (high dust holding capacity) and strong adsorption capacity, reducing abnormal wear and extending the engine's service life
3. The filter paper is exquisitely made to ensure excellent corrosion resistance and pressure resistance
4. Precise dimensions ensure 100% assembly accuracy
5. Precise sealing techniques ensure the best strength and sealing performance
6. Reliable and durable, ensuring it can withstand the burst pressure of engine oil
7. Excellent load capacity and anti-aging performance
8. Accessories (such as sealing gaskets) are resistant to both high and low temperatures

The risk of not replacing on time

The oil filtration performance has decreased
The oil pressure passing through the filter element will be greatly reduced

1. The bypass valve of the filter will open, and the unfiltered oil will enter the oil circuit through the bypass valve. Contaminated particles and impurities can enter the engine lubricating oil circuit, accelerating and increasing engine wear, resulting in unnecessary maintenance costs