If you have a clogged oil filter, this means that you need to have your oil changed, too, because both are changed at the same time. Clark’s Car Care warns that failure to change your oil when it needs it can seriously damage the engine. It will also clog the oil filter. Let’s talk about the engine problems that are associated with a clogged oil filter below.
Compromised Performance
A clogged oil filter can prevent clean oil flow through the engine. Unfortunately, this means that the motor oil might deposit dirt onto the moving engine parts. When this happens, your engine’s performance will suffer. Everything needs to be flowing smoothly in order to have optimal engine performance. If your engine’s performance is lagging, it may be due to a clogged oil filter. One of the most common occurrences will be that your engine will sputter when you press down on the accelerator and as you drive along.
Clanking Sounds
A clogged oil filter can prevent oil flow through the engine. Consequently, and as we mentioned above, this can seriously damage your engine. If you do not have oil flowing through the engine, you will hear metal parts clanking and grinding together. If you continue to drive your automobile when the engine is making this noise, you will damage the parts beyond repair. Unfortunately, this can damage your engine beyond repair, as well. In other words, you may be left with the need to have a new engine dropped into your automobile.
Low Oil Pressure
A clogged oil filter can reduce the oil pressure. If you have an oil pressure gauge on your vehicle’s dashboard, you will notice that the needle is registering low oil pressure. A minor reduction in the pressure is normal when your vehicle is in operation. A noticeable reduction in oil pressure is cause for alarm. You need to have proper oil pressure to ensure that the oil is circulating through the engine. Otherwise, you will be faced with the engine damage discussed above.
High Emissions Levels
Finally, a clogged oil filter can increase your vehicle’s emissions levels. This can be a problem if you live in a state that requires testing the emissions levels in order to register your automobile. A clogged oil filter means a dirty engine, and a dirty engine means high emissions levels in your vehicle’s exhaust.
Clark’s Car Care in Naperville, IL, can change your oil and oil filter if it is clogged. Call us today to set up an appointment.