United Auto Care is going to list the signs that your oil filter is clogged below, but we recommend you avoid this altogether. Changing your oil regularly, which is usually every 3,000 miles, allows us to install a new oil filter into the engine. This ensures that your oil filter will never get clogged by the dirt and grime that the oil picks up as it circulates through the engine.
Poor Engine Performance
If, for some reason, you were unable to have your oil changed when it needed it, you may notice a reduction in your engine’s performance if the oil filter is clogged. Your engine will sputter, misfire, and struggle to accelerate when you apply extra pressure to the accelerator. Unfortunately, a clogged oil filter will circulate dirty motor oil through the engine and this will affect its performance.
Reduction in Fuel Economy
It will also affect your fuel economy. Any time the engine is having performance issues, it uses more gasoline in an effort to correct them. Consequently, the clogged oil filter will indirectly cause a reduction in your vehicle’s gas mileage. This can create a problem if you are living on a tight budget and cannot afford to head to the service station more often than you normally do.
Strange Metallic Noises
Aside from the above, you may start to hear strange metallic noises coming from the engine. These noises could be clanking, grinding, or scraping. If you hear these noises, stop driving your automobile right away to avoid severe engine damage. These noises are a sign that you do not have oil circulating through the engine, i.e., the oil filter is clogged and blocking the oil’s circulation.
Dashboard Warning Light
A clogged oil filter will also reduce the oil pressure in the engine. As such, you will end up with a dashboard warning light that is related to the oil. Again, we don’t recommend driving your automobile if you have an oil warning light illuminated on the dashboard because this is a sign that the engine may not be getting the oil it needs to protect it.
Filthy Engine Exhaust
Finally, a clogged oil filter can increase the hydrocarbons found in your vehicle’s exhaust. Consequently, your car, truck, or utility vehicle will fail any emissions test that it takes.
Call United Auto Care in Flowery Branch, GA, today to schedule an oil change if you suspect that your oil filter is clogged. You can also give us a call if it’s been 3,000 miles since your last oil change.
