How Oil Filters Work

Tips for Understanding How Oil Filters Work

How Do Oil Filters Work?

An oil filter is a filter designed to remove contaminants from engine oil, transmission oil, lubricating oil, or hydraulic oil. Oil filters are used in many different types of hydraulic machinery. A chief use of the oil filter is in internal-combustion engines in on- and off-road motor vehicles, light aircraft, and various naval vessels. Other vehicle hydraulic systems, such as those in automatic transmissions and power steering, often have a filter element in the reservoir. Oil filters are important because they remove contaminants from the engine oil. These contaminants can cause engine damage if they are not removed. Engine oil filters should be replaced regularly to ensure the engine oil is clean and free of contaminants. Be sure to schedule your next oil change at a certified shop like AutoStream Car Care Center at Hampden of Baltimore and ask to change the oil filter when you do.

Types of Oil Filters

The oil filter works by passing oil through a series of filters. The most common type of oil filter is the cartridge oil filter. This type of filter contains a pleated paper filter element. The element is pleated to increase the surface area through which the oil can be filtered. As the engine oil passes through the pleated paper filter element, the contaminants are trapped on the surface of the element. The second type of oil filter is the spin-on oil filter. The spin-on oil filter works similarly to the cartridge oil filter, except the filter element is a cylindrical screen. The oil is forced through the screen, and the contaminants are trapped on the screen’s surface. Your mechanic will know what type of filter best fits your vehicle’s needs and budget.

Let Us Handle Your Oil Changes

The most common time to have your oil filter changed is when you have an oil change performed on your vehicle. The AutoStream Car Care Center team will install the correct type and size filter during your next regular oil change. Give us a call to make an appointment today, or stop by the shop at Hampden of Baltimore to speak to the team in person.