Keeping your engine filters clean ensures your vehicle performs the way it should while reducing the likelihood of engine trouble. 

You can replace most filters once a year (or wash and reuse them if you have the right kind.) However, if you do a lot of driving or drive in particularly harsh conditions, it’s a good idea to clean or replace them more often. 

In this post, we’ll cover the three main types of automotive filters and share a few maintenance tips for each of them. 

Oil Filter Maintenance

Using an oil filter ensures that no dust or debris makes its way into your engine, which can decrease your vehicle’s performance. 

Some mechanics recommend replacing your filter each time you change the oil, while others recommend doing so after every second oil change. 

In saying that, here are some oil filter maintenance tips:

  • If possible, consider changing your oil filter every time you change your oil, as this may extend your engine’s lifespan. 
  • Don’t waste your time trying to clean an oil filter, as this is often ineffective and may damage your engine. 
  • When changing your oil filter, make sure it seals correctly by spreading some oil around the gasket ring. 

Air Filter Maintenance

Air filters ensure airborne particles like dust, fungi, debris, and other contaminants stay out of your engine and out of your lungs. 

If you don't clean or replace them, you could end up with poor airflow or contaminants in places where they shouldn’t be. 

To keep both of your vehicle’s air filters clean, you should: 

  • Replace paper filters at least once per year—more if you drive a lot or drive in dusty conditions. You can also clean reusable filters more often to keep air quality high.
  • Be careful when removing your air filter, as any rips will require a replacement. 
  • If you have a reusable filter, make sure to clean it gently with a hose or under a tap. You can also soak the filter in a gentle soap solution for any stubborn dirt. Afterwards, make sure to dry the filter in the sun to avoid mould growth.

Fuel Filter Maintenance

These days, fuel is much cleaner than it was in the past. However, it’s still possible for rust, sediment and other gunk to be present. That’s why it’s a good idea to invest in and maintain a high-quality fuel filter. 

To maintain your fuel filter, you should: 

  • Relieve the fuel system’s pressure before maintenance by removing the pump fuse then running your engine for roughly two minutes. 
  • Check for the presence of rust or water by draining the filter contents. If you find any, you’ll need to contact a mechanic for a thorough examination. If there isn’t any, you can apply your chosen cleaner to your filter. 
  • Lubricate all fittings and bolts to avoid corrosion. If any fittings are damaged, make sure to replace them with the correct fuel hoses and clamps. 

Make Sure To Use High-Quality Engine Filters From The Beginning

To reduce the need for maintenance, it’s a good idea to use industry-leading brands that create durable, long-lasting filters. 

Brands like K&N, Ryco, Aeroflow, Sakura, Fram and the many other trusted companies on our website all put their filters through extensive testing to ensure they meet Australian standards. 

Through this testing, you can rest assured that your vehicle will be free of contaminants that can hamper performance and reduce the lifespan of your engine. 

While you can’t go wrong with any of the brands on our site, we’re available to help you pick the perfect one for your car, motorcycle or other vehicles. Give us a call on 1300 651 273 or shoot us a message through the contact form on our site.