How to Tell If Your Oil Filter Needs Changing
How to Tell If Your Oil Filter Needs Changing
Posted on October 17, 2024
Maintaining a well-functioning engine is essential for the longevity and efficiency of your vehicle. One component, the oil filter, plays a vital role in keeping your engine clean by collecting contaminants and stopping them from spreading through the engine. However, these filters can become clogged or worn out, reducing their efficiency and potentially harming your engine. Nexcar Auto Sales & Leasing, a trusted used car dealership, has put together this guide to explore the key signs that indicate when it's time to replace your oil filter to keep your engine in top condition. Let's review.
Reduced Engine Efficiency
Have you noticed a decline in your vehicle's overall performance? This could suggest that your vehicle has a clogged oil filter. When the filter is clogged, it can restrict the flow of clean oil to the engine, leading to reduced lubrication and increased friction. As a driver, you will feel sluggish acceleration, a general lack of power, and decreased fuel efficiency. Paying attention to these signs can help you determine when your oil filter needs to be replaced.
Unusual Engine Sounds
When the oil is properly changed, the engine of the vehicle will run smoothly and quickly. If the engine is beginning to make knocking, ticking, or banging noises, these signs could indicate that the oil filter is not effectively filtering contaminants. These sounds are often a result of increased friction and wear. Addressing these problems as soon as they arrive is extremely important in order to prevent long-term damage to the vehicle's engine.
Dirty or Dark Oil
While engine oil generally ranges in colour, when fresh oil is used it typically appears light amber or honey-coloured. However, as the oil accumulates contaminants like dirt, metal particles, and combustion by-products, the oil darkens over time. If the oil becomes significantly dark or even black, it suggests that the oil has exceeded its useful life and may no longer provide adequate lubrication and protection. Regular oil changes and filter replacements are essential to keep your engine in top condition.
Dashboard Warning Lights
Dashboard warning indicators are a standard feature in modern vehicles, employing sensors to oversee engine operations. When your dashboard illuminates warning lights signalling issues like low oil pressure or suboptimal engine performance, these may stem from a compromised oil filter. Neglecting dashboard warning signs can increase the risk of significant engine damage over time. Therefore, if you receive a dashboard warning, it's best to get the issue addressed promptly.
How Our Used Car Dealership Can Help
At Nexcar Auto Sales & Leasing, we understand the importance of maintaining a healthy engine for your vehicle's longevity and performance. If you notice reduced engine efficiency, unusual engine sounds, or dirty, darkened oil, it's time to consider replacing your oil filter. Ignoring these signs could lead to more significant issues down the road. For reliable used cars and flexible auto loan options contact our dealership at (416) 633-8188 today and our specialists would be happy to work with you.