Oil filters are a crucial component of an automobile’s filtration system, designed to remove contaminants from engine oil. They help maintain engine performance and longevity by preventing dirt, metal particles, and sludge from circulating within the engine.
Types of Oil Filters
- Full-Flow (Primary) Oil Filters – The most common type, filtering all the engine oil before it reaches vital components.
- Secondary (Bypass) Oil Filters – Provides additional filtration by filtering a small portion of oil at a time, capturing finer contaminants.
- Cartridge Oil Filters – Replaceable filter element without a metal casing, often seen in modern vehicles for eco-friendliness.
- Spin-On Oil Filters – A self-contained filter with a metal canister and replaceable unit, common in older vehicles.
- Magnetic Oil Filters – Uses magnets to attract and remove metallic contaminants from the oil.
- Centrifugal Oil Filters – Uses centrifugal force to remove contaminants without a traditional filter media.
Key Features to Consider
- Filtration Efficiency – Measured in microns; lower micron ratings indicate better filtration.
- Material – Synthetic filters last longer and perform better than traditional cellulose filters.
- Compatibility – Must match the vehicle’s engine specifications.
- Anti-Drain Back Valve – Prevents oil from draining back into the filter when the engine is off, ensuring lubrication at startup.
- Bypass Valve – Allows oil to flow if the filter gets clogged, preventing engine starvation.