Some people try this trick by blowing out a disposable oil filter to reuse them. But this trick is a bad idea as you may end up damaging the filter media to the point that the oil filter cannot capture contaminants.
So, can you reuse an oil filter? No, you shouldn’t attempt to reuse your disposable oil filter. But you can use it several times if it is an expensive reusable oil filter. If you purchase one of good quality, it may last throughout your vehicle's lifetime.
Continue reading to find out more about reusing oil filters!
Can You Reuse An Oil Filter?
The answer depends on what kind of oil filter you own. A disposable one shouldn’t be reused, while a reusable one can be used multiple times.
Under no circumstances do we recommend that you reuse an old oil filter that’s disposable, as doing so can even result in a damaged engine. Replace the damaged oil filter during every oil change. Neglecting an oil filter change can prove fatal to your car.
However, cleaning and maintaining the filter is enough if you invest in a high-quality, reusable oil filter. You should be able to use it for a very long time without an issue.
Reusable oil filters are more environment-friendly and sustainable. They also save you money in the long run. You should consider purchasing one if you still need to get one.
What Happens If You Reuse A Filter?
What happens if you change the oil but not the filter? Reusing a clogged oil filter when it's due for a change makes it overtightened with built-up soot, dirt particles, or even metal particles and other debris. This increased pressure results in the opening of the bypass valve.
Once the bypass valve is open, the motor oil will bypass the filter entirely and reach the engine without filtration. This can damage your engine beyond repair.
To prevent this pressure build-up, some people blow out the filter to get rid of the debris. This only damages the filter media and renders the oil filter useless.
On the other hand, you can clean out a reusable filter without damaging it and safely reuse it.
Can You Clean A Used Oil Filter?
Yes, you can clean an oil filter if it is reusable but you cannot a disposable oil filter. You need to get a new oil filter with an oil change.
Cleaning a reusable filter once during each oil change is a good practice. It is super easy to do so. You need to take out the filter assembly and remove the filter element. Use an aerosol brake cleaner to wash out the filter, spraying inside and outside the element from all directions.
Wash it with soap and water. Blow with compressed air if possible. Clean out the housing, and once dried, put the assembly back together. It's that simple!
Can You Clean An Oil Filter With Gasoline?
Yes, you can clean a reusable oil filter by using gasoline. You can submerge the oil filter in gasoline for 20 minutes before cleaning it up with soap and water.
Gasoline will break down any debris on the oil filter housing and the element that accumulate over time. Using gasoline is old-school but effective. You can get the job done quickly.
How Long Do Oil Filters Last?
How long your oil filter lasts depends on the quality of the filter. Conventional filters usually wear out quicker than ones made of synthetic media. Reusable filters of high-quality materials last for years as they can be cleaned.
Another factor that affects the lifespan of your oil filter is driving conditions. Driving on dirty, dusty roads will make your oil filter work harder and fill it up with debris faster.
On average, you can expect your disposable oil filter to last close to 7,500 miles.
What's Inside An Oil Filter?
A disposable oil filter has three components; a filter element, a metal housing, and a bypass valve. Since a disposable oil filter is only meant to last for a few months, its filter is made of paper.
A reusable oil filter is made of much sturdier material. Usually, it consists of an aluminum canister to house a filter medium made of stainless steel. Such a solid construction enables the filter to handle hot engine oil, be washable, and last for years.
Each type of filter also contains a rubber gasket to seal the assembly in place.
Conventional Vs Synthetic Oil Filter
A filter consisting of synthetic media is superior to a conventional filter in the following ways.
● Better at Filtering Contaminants
Every oil filter comes with an efficiency percentage along with a micron rating. For example: 99% at 25 microns means that the filter successfully captures 99% of the debris of 25 microns size or bigger. Synthetic filters have better ratings than conventional ones.
● Holds More Contaminants
Although there is no rating issued for how much debris an oil filter can hold, usually synthetic filters are able to contain more small contaminants. This is because they have tinier fibers in their filter media. Such configuration allows more space for debris.
● Has a Longer Lifespan
Synthetic media filters wear out slower than conventional filters. Their filter media offers more durability. However, if you are looking for durability, the best option is always to use a reusable filter.
Conclusion
An oil filter keeps the engine oil clean and free from debris and contaminants. That keeps the engine healthy. An oil filter that is full of pollutants can do this job. The bypass valve will cave under the pressure differential created, and the oil will stop filtering.
That’s why you need to change a disposable filter after every oil change. Hopefully, you have got answers the question, can you reuse an oil filter.
We recommend you look into reusable oil filters if you want to use several times.
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