Signs You Need Your Oil Filter Replaced Right Away

Stop by Techway Automotive in Georgia or Alabama today if you have not had your oil changed in over 3,000 miles. Failing to change the oil can leave you with a clogged oil filter and severe engine damage. The oil filter is changed when the oil is changed to make sure that the two remain clean. Let’s talk more about the signs that you need to get your oil filter replaced right away.

Lagging Engine Performance

As the oil filter gets dirtier and dirtier, the oil will also get dirtier and dirtier. This can leave you with lagging engine performance because the oil is not protecting the engine. Rather, the oil is depositing dirt and grime into the engine. This dirt and grime can create problems with various engine parts and cause your engine to run inefficiently. In fact, your engine may sputter all the time.

Reduction in Fuel Efficiency

An inefficient engine will burn through more diesel fuel or gasoline as it struggles to run. Consequently, aside from the engine performance problems, you will also have to deal with a reduction in your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. This can be difficult for people who are on a tight budget and cannot afford extra trips to the service station. A clean oil filter can restore your fuel efficiency.

Metallic/Grinding Engine Noise

It’s important to avoid driving your automobile if you hear metallic noises or grinding coming from the engine. This is a sign that the clogged oil filter is not releasing oil into the engine to protect the moving parts. Consequently, they are grinding against each other. If you continue to drive your vehicle, you could damage the engine beyond repair in 30 minutes or less.

Significantly Reduced Oil Pressure

One reason why the engine is not getting any oil is the clogged oil filter can reduce the oil pressure. This is what circulates the oil through the engine. In most cases, the oil light will turn on on your dashboard if there is a problem with the oil pressure.

Excess Hydrocarbons in the Exhaust

Finally, because the oil helps to keep the engine clean, you may end up with excess hydrocarbons in your vehicle’s exhaust if the oil filter is clogged. This can create a huge problem if your vehicle needs to pass an emissions test so you can register it.

Call Techway Automotive in Blakely, GA, or Opp or Dothan, AL, to schedule an oil change if you suspect your oil filter is clogged.