Oil Filter Replacement

How often should the oil filter be replaced?

In most cases, the recommended oil filter replacement interval is every 8,000–10,000 km or once a year, even if you’ve driven less.
However, in real conditions in Lviv (frequent traffic jams, short trips, cold starts, humid climate), the filter and oil get dirty much faster.

If the vehicle:

• frequently stands in traffic,
• drives short distances,
• is used in winter,

it’s better to replace the filter every 7,000–8,000 km along with the oil.

How to tell if the oil filter is clogged?

There are several typical signs that drivers often ignore:

• the engine starts running louder, a “metallic” sound appears;
• vibrations are felt at idle speed;
• the oil darkens after just a few hundred kilometers after replacement;
• the oil pressure warning light may come on;
• fuel consumption increases and performance decreases.

All of these symptoms indicate that the oil is no longer being properly filtered.

What types of oil filters are there?

There are several types of oil filters — and not all of them are the same:

• Cartridge filters — only the internal element is replaced, and the housing remains. They are most commonly used in BMW, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Audi.
• Screw-on (spin-on) filters — classic metal filters that are completely replaced (Toyota, Hyundai, Ford, Mazda).
• Magnetic filters — additionally trap metal shavings.
• Filters with a bypass valve — open when the filter is clogged to prevent the engine from running “dry”.
• Filters with an anti-drainback valve — prevent oil from draining back after the engine is turned off.

At Autopark-Service, we select the filter strictly according to your car’s VIN code.

Can you change the oil without replacing the filter?

No — this is one of the most common and dangerous mistakes.

The old filter:

• contains dirt, metal, and sludge;
• immediately contaminates the new oil;
• may block the flow of lubrication.

Therefore, the oil filter is always replaced together with the oil.

Which cars do we replace oil filters for?

At Autopark-Service in Lviv, we service:
BMW, Audi, Volkswagen, Skoda, Mercedes, Toyota, Mazda, Honda, Ford, Renault, Opel, Hyundai, Kia, Nissan, Volvo, and others.

We work with:

• gasoline engines;
• diesel engines;
• turbocharged engines;
• vehicles with DPF and EGR systems.

How does the oil filter replacement procedure go at the service station?

The procedure takes an average of 20–30 minutes:

1. drain the used oil;
2. remove the old filter;
3. clean the mounting surface;
4. install the new filter;
5. check pressure and sealing.

Why is it better to replace the filter at the service station, not on your own?

When replacing it yourself, often:

• the filter is over-tightened;
• the seal is damaged;
• the housing is not cleaned;
• oil pressure is not checked.

At the service station, you get:

• correct tightening torque;
• sealing control;
• lubrication system check;
• work warranty.

How does winter affect the oil filter?

In winter:

• the oil is thicker,
• the engine takes longer to warm up,
• short trips prevent condensation from evaporating.

Because of this, the filter gets clogged faster, and replacement should be done more frequently.

How much does an oil filter replacement cost in Lviv?

The price depends on:

• car make;
• engine type;
• access to the filter.

Call us — and we will tell you the exact price for your model.

Autopark-Service
Solonka, Kiltseva St. 60
We are open 24/7
(067) 346-85-20
autopark.service.ua@gmail.com

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