It is critical that you get the oil filter changed every 3,000 miles. If you put synthetic motor oil in your European automobile, the filter should be changed every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. The oil filter is unique in that it cleans the motor oil after it has circulated through the engine. Eventually, the dirt that the oil picks up from the engine will clog the oil filter. Boulevard Auto Repair lists for signs below that the oil filter is clogged in your European automobile.
1. Black, Carbon-Filled Exhaust
Dirty motor oil creates black exhaust that flows out of your tailpipe. It will also increase the hydrocarbons in your vehicle’s exhaust, and this, consequently, can cause your European automobile to fail its smog check. You will not only be able to see the excess exhaust coming out of the tailpipe but you will also be able to smell a hot and unpleasant odor coming from your engine. This is the smell of dirty motor oil being burned in the engine.
2. Engine Sputtering/Performance Issues
A clogged oil filter can also affect your European automobile’s engine performance. The engine will sputter and your acceleration will lag. This is because the engine is being contaminated by dirty motor oil. Again, the oil filter cleans the motor oil after it circulates through the engine. Part of the oil’s job is to clean the engine parts. The filter removes the dirt and contaminants from the oil before it circulates through the engine again.
3. Metallic Grinding Sounds in the Engine
If the oil filter is clogged completely, your engine isn’t getting any motor oil. Even if it isn’t clogged completely, the oil flow is reduced by the partially-clogged filter. When this happens, the metal parts in your engine will rub against each other and grind. This is a sure sign that you do not have enough motor oil in the engine. Do not drive your automobile if you hear grinding sounds.
4. Reduction in Overall Oil Pressure
Finally, you may be able to see that your oil filter is getting clogged if you keep an eye on the oil pressure gauge on your dashboard. You will see a significant reduction in your oil pressure if the clogged filter is preventing proper oil circulation. If you don’t have an oil pressure gauge, you may end up with an illuminated oil warning light.
Call Boulevard Auto Repair in Sherman Oaks, CA, right away if you suspect your European automobile’s oil filter is clogged. We can replace it in a jiffy.