Oil Filter

Traps metal particles, carbon deposits, and other contaminants from the engine oil, preventing them from circulating through and damaging engine bearings, journals, and other precision surfaces.

$5 – $20 (part only; included in oil change cost)

Total Cost

oil change (3,000 – 10,000 miles)

Replace Interval

Easy

DIY Difficulty

Schedule Soon

If It Fails

Overview

The oil filter removes contaminants from engine oil as it circulates through the engine. It's replaced with every oil change and is one of the cheapest yet most important engine components.

Parts Cost

$5 – $20

Labor Cost

$0 (included in oil change)

Failure Symptoms

Low oil pressure warning

Critical

Engine noise (ticking, knocking)

High

Dirty or dark oil shortly after change

Low

Metallic particles visible in oil

Critical

Warning Signs to Watch

Oil pressure warning light
Oil that looks very dirty shortly after a change
Overdue for an oil change

Common Causes of Failure

1Normal clogging from filtering contaminants
2Extended oil change intervals
3Using a low-quality filter
4Pre-existing engine problems producing excessive debris

Prevention Tips

Change your oil and filter at the manufacturer's recommended interval
Use a quality filter brand (Wix, Purolator, Bosch, OEM)
Don't use the cheapest filter available — the few dollars saved aren't worth it

When to Replace

Every oil change, without exception. Oil filters are inexpensive insurance for your engine.

Oil Filter by Make

German luxury cars use cartridge-style oil filters that sit inside a reusable housing. The filter element costs $8-$15. Make sure the O-ring on the housing cap is replaced with each change.

Toyota

Honda

Many newer Toyota and Honda models also use cartridge-style filters mounted on top of the engine for easy access.