An oil filter is an essential component for properly functioning a car engine. It filters out harmful contaminants and debris from oils to ensure smooth operation and prolonged engine life. Hence, you can find versatile oil filters in the market. But my focus is on standard vs. high-performance oil filters in this blog post.
In brief, standard oil filters are the most used in vehicles. These filters are made of cellulose filter media that can remove particles of a minimum of 20 microns from the engine oil. Alternatively, high-performance oil filters fit mainly in high-performance engines or vehicles. With the synthetic filter media, these filters can remove even smaller as 5-10 microns particles.
Nobody can deny the importance of oil filtration as it lets oil provide the best out of it. It ensures the moving parts of the engine work smoothly. Moreover, oil change intervals increased with the advancements of engine technology. But manufacturers always recommend using quality oil and maintaining its filtration for the best performance and longevity of a vehicle.
Standard vs. High-Performance Oil Filters: A Brief Overview of Comparison
| Characteristics | Standard Oil Filter | High-Performance Oil Filter |
|---|---|---|
| Filtration Efficiency | Lower filtration efficiency, generally less effective at filtering out smaller contaminants. | Higher filtration efficiency, better at removing finer particles of debris. |
| Filter Change Interval | Typically requires replacement every 3500 to 5000 miles depending on driving conditions. | Can last up to 15,000 miles depending on driving conditions. |
| Compatibility | Generally compatible with most engine types and vehicle models. | May have compatibility issues, making them unsuitable for certain types of engines. |
| Availability | Generally, widely available | Often harder to find |
| Cost | Less expensive | More expensive than standard oil filters |
| Filter Capacity | Usually has a capacity of 8-10 grams of dirt. | Typically has a higher dirt-holding capacity, can hold 15-20 grams of dirt. |
| Bypass Valve Type | Mechanical bypass valve | Pressure relief valve |
The Functions of Oil Filters
Any engine oil filter performs three primary functions: removing contaminants, protecting engine components, and extending engine life.
- An engine generates heat and friction that cause contaminants (like metal particles, dirt, and debris) to form. These contaminants can mix with engine oil. By filtration, you can remove these oil contaminants efficiently.
- Filtration of oil reduces friction and wear on moving parts (like bearings, pistons, and camshafts) of the engine. It prevents premature wear and potential engine failures.
- Oil filters remove contamination and protect engine components. In this way, they can enhance the lifespan of the engine.
Standard Oil Filters – Good for Regular Engines
Standard Oil Filters are the most used oil filters in the market. These filters are made up of traditional filtration materials like cellulose, nylon, or paper. Also, these are paired with a metal cap and filter support.
These oil filters are typically canister-type filters – the most common configuration for automotive oil filters. (Source) They offer a balance between contamination control and cost-effectiveness.
The primary and secondary media in standard oil filters capture contaminants in the oil. The primary media can stop particles as small as 25-30 microns. On the other hand, the secondary media can prevent particles as small as 5-10 microns. (Source)
You can select these oil filters for normal driving conditions. They can provide adequate protection against engine wear and damage. Through this, you can keep the vehicle engine running smoothly and efficiently. But you may not get the same level of protection and performance as high-performance oil filters.
Advantages of Standard Oil Filters
Standard oil filters offer several advantages, including cleaning debris and other contaminants. Some of them are:
Affordability
Standard oil filters are generally more affordable compared to high-performance or specialized filters. You can use these oil filters in your vehicle engine if you are a budget-conscious vehicle owner.
Widely Available
Many manufacturers produce standard types of oil filters. So, they are readily available in most auto parts stores and online retailers. So, when you need them, you can just order them and get them right at your place.
Compatible with Most Cars
These filters are compatible with most car models and engine types. Standard oil filters can be a good choice if you do not need particularly high-performance oil filters.
Good Filtration Efficiency:
Standard oil filters are efficient in filtering out larger debris. They are effective in keeping the engine oil reasonably clean.
Easy to Install
Standard oil filters are easy to install. So, you can consider installing standard oil filters with minimal tools and expertise.
Engine Protection
Standard oil filters perform a basic function of filtering out debris from the engine oil, like dirt and metal particles. They offer adequate protection to the engine. Also, they help extend the engine’s lifespan by reducing wear and tear on internal components.
Disadvantages of Standard Oil Filters
Besides the advantages, you may also get these disadvantages from standard oil filters:
Limited Filtration Efficiency
Standard ones may not offer similar filtration efficiency compared to high-performance oil filters. It means they may not be good at removing smaller particles and contaminants (less than 20 microns) from the engine oil.
Shorter Service Life
The lifespan of standard oil filters is not as long as other types. So, you may often need to replace them frequently. It will increase the maintenance cost over time.
Potential for Clogging
Standard oil filters can be more susceptible to clogging. Especially if you do not replace them properly, they may stop performing well due to clogging. It will lead to increased engine wear and potential damage.
High-Performance Oil Filters – Good for Modern Engines with Technologies
High-performance oil filters have a more advanced design and composition than standard ones. They are made with higher-quality materials like synthetic fibers and tighter pleats. These materials can capture finer particles and impurities in engine oil.
Engines with higher horsepower, turbochargers, and the latest technologies have these high-performance oil filters.
You may find these filters from many top-notch brands. For instance, the Mobil 1 Extended Performance Oil Filter features a synthetic fiber blend media. It has a 99.6 Multi-Pass Efficiency rating. It can withstand up to nine times the normal operating pressure. So, the engine lubrication remains up to date. (Source)
High-performance oil filters allow longer oil drain intervals. Due to continuous oil filtering, they have a 3-micrometer pore size to minimize engine wear. Also, the drain interval can extend up to 10 times when using a high-efficiency oil filter. (Source)
Advantages of High-Performance Oil Filters
High-performance oil filters offer multiple benefits to their users. Some of them are:
Increased Filtration Efficiency
High-performance oil filters offer superior filtration efficiency for synthetic filter media. They can capture much smaller contaminant particles to keep engine oil cleaner. For instance, many high-performance oil filters can be up to 90-95% efficient at removing 15-25 microns of particles. But some filters can trap 5-10 microns particles from engine oil.
Greater Dirt-holding Capacity
High-performance oil filters generally have a higher dirt-holding capacity. They can trap more debris before becoming clogged. This extra capacity means fewer filter changes are required over time. So you can save more time and money.
Heavy-Duty Construction
High-performance oil filters have high-quality components to withstand harsh operating conditions and high engine pressures. These filters have durable end caps, strong center tubes, and reliable anti-drain back valves. So, they function effectively, prevent oil leaks, and maintain proper oil flow throughout the engine.
Longer Filter Life
High-performance oil filters can generally go more extended periods before requiring replacement. Usually, they can last up to 5000-15,000 miles between oil change intervals. It means that you can save more money on replacing these oil filters.
Better Protection for High-Performance Engines
High-performance oil filters provide better protection for high-performance engines. These engines often operate under more demanding conditions and require superior filtration. But when you use these oil filters, these engines may perform better and provide peak performance.
Compatibility with Various Oils
High-performance oil filters are compatible with synthetic, conventional, and blended oils. So, they are ideal for various vehicles and applications.
Disadvantages of High-Performance Oil Filters
Like standard oil filters, high-performance oil filters also have some demerits. Some of them are:
Higher Cost
The advanced materials and technology used in these filters (like synthetic filter media and heavy-duty construction) set the cost higher than standard oil filters. So, you may need to pay more to get the extra benefits from high-performance oil filters.
Limited Compatibility with Some Vehicles
Indeed, high-performance oil filters work with many oils. But they may not be compatible with some vehicle makes and models. For instance, specific engines may not have the configurations or need additional modifications to install these oil filters.
Availability
I do not actually consider it a disadvantage, as these oil filters are primarily for high-quality engines or vehicles. Still, high-performance oil filters are not such widely available as standard oil filters. So, you may need to order directly from the manufacturer or through specialty automotive stores.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question-1: Can I switch between standard and high-performance oil filters?
Answer: Yes, you can switch between standard and high-performance oil filters. But they should be compatible with your vehicle’s engine and meet the manufacturer’s specifications.
Question-2: How to tell if my oil filter needs to be changed?
Answer: You can monitor the oil pressure gauge or indicator on the dashboard. Then, look for any leakage or damage around the oil filter. If you notice decreased engine performance, it may be time to change the oil filter.
Question-3: What is the cost to change an oil filter?
Answer: It may vary depending on the type of filter; the vehicle makes and model, and the location of the service. On average, changing an oil filter can cost between $20 and $50 (including the cost of the filter).
Question-4: How often should you change the oil filter of a car?
Answer: The recommended oil filter replacement interval depends on your vehicle’s manufacturer guidelines. But you can change it every 3,000 to 6,000 miles for better performance.
Question-5: What happens if you don’t change your oil filter?
Answer: If you don’t change your oil filter, the filter will become clogged with debris. It will reduce the filter’s effectiveness and allow contaminants to circulate in the engine. Hence, it can lead to engine damage and decreased performance.
Conclusion
Standard vs. high-performance oil filters – the debate ends here.
Let me recap the topic. In this blog, I have thoroughly clarified two unique oil filters, from the definition to the disadvantages.
Select standard oil filters if you want to save money on buying oil filters. But frequent changes may equal the cost. Besides, you may not get the effective result as the high-performance oil filters. On the other hand, high-performance oil filters save money in filter-changing frequencies but may cost more when you want to install them.
So, you can decide upon these oil filters after considering your needs.
Thanks a lot! I hope you loved reading the post.
