The oil filter needs to be changed regularly to keep the oil clean so it doesn’t harm the engine. The oil runs through the filter after it has circulated through the engine and picked up all of the dirt and grime. The filter is necessary to remove this prime out of the oil before it recirculates. Accurate Auto can replace your oil filter when it needs it, which is usually every 3,000 miles. Below are signs that your oil filter is clogged and needs to be replaced right away.
Sputtering Engine Performance
A clogged oil filter will cause your engine to perform poorly. This is because the oil will struggle to circulate through the engine. If the oil filter is clogged, the oil cannot pass through it freely and you may end up with little to no oil in the engine. An engine that is not being lubricated properly with oil will sputter, struggle to run, and overheat.
Noticeable Loss of Fuel Economy
A clogged oil filter can also cause a noticeable loss of fuel efficiency if the engine is struggling to run as discussed above. Any time the engine is not running efficiently it burns more fuel to produce power. Consequently, you will blow through a full tank more quickly than normal because the oil filter is clogged and affecting the engine’s performance.
Grinding or Clanking Engine Noises
You may also hear grinding or clanking noises coming from the engine. Any type of metallic noise is an indication that the engine parts are grinding against each other. Consequently, you should not drive your automobile if you hear these noises. Doing so could damage the engine beyond repair.
Oil Pressure Dashboard Warning
A clogged oil filter may also cause the engine control module to turn on the oil light. This dashboard warning is letting you know that the oil level is too low or that there is a problem with the oil pressure. A clogged oil filter can reduce the oil pressure in the engine.
Dirty Exhaust With Excess Hydrocarbons
Finally, a clogged oil filter will also cause your vehicle to release dirty exhaust that has excess hydrocarbons in it. This creates a problem with your vehicle’s emissions. If you need your automobile to pass an emissions test and you haven’t had the oil changed recently, change the oil first so that you have fresh oil and a new oil filter in the automobile.
Accurate Auto in Beaverton, Lake Oswego, Hillsboro, or Tigard, OR, is here to help, so call us today if you are having any of the problems listed above.