Think of your oil filter as your engine’s bodyguard — it keeps contaminants out and prevents trouble under the hood. But if it fails, you might notice louder engine noises and lower fuel efficiency.
So, how much does it cost to replace a damaged oil filter?
While an oil filter change won’t break the bank, the service cost depends on factors ranging from the type of oil and filter used to the repair shop you visit.
Read on as we break down the oil filter cost and the factors that influence it. We’ll also help you spot the signs of a clogged filter so you can replace it before the problem gets out of hand.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does an Oil Filter Change Cost?
- Is It Worth Replacing the Oil Filter?
- 7 Critical Signs You Need an Oil Filter Replacement
- How Long Do Oil Filters Last?
- 4 FAQs about Oil Filters
How Much Does an Oil Filter Change Cost?
An oil filter replacement is usually done alongside an oil change service to ensure clean lubricant runs through your engine. Without clean oil, the new filter will quickly get clogged with debris, restricting oil flow and causing engine damage due to friction.
Here’s what you can expect to pay for a filter and engine oil change:
A. Range
A regular oil change service involving an oil and filter replacement can range from $75 to $200, depending on whether you get conventional or synthetic oil and the mechanic’s fee.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
- Conventional oil change and filter cost: $35 to $80
- Synthetic oil change and filter cost: $65 to $130
- Labor cost: $40 to $170
However, if you choose a DIY oil change, the cost of oil and a filter may be significantly less. Here’s an estimate of what you might spend:
- Conventional oil change:
- Oil filter: $5 to $15
- Motor oil: $30 to $40 (for 5 quarts)
- Synthetic oil change:
- Oil filter: $10 to $15
- Motor oil: $30 to $65 (for 5 quarts)
B. Factors Affecting Cost
The filter and oil change price estimates can vary based on factors such as:
- Vehicle type: Larger vehicles need more oil, making regular oil changes expensive. Moreover, luxury or performance cars may also require special oils or filters, adding to the total cost.
- Filter type: Oil filter cost can vary depending on the type, such as cartridge, spin-on, and magnetic filter. For example, magnetic and specialty oil filters cost more than cartridge and spin-on types.
- Oil type: There are four oil types — conventional, synthetic, synthetic blend, and high-mileage motor oil. Like filters, your choice of motor oil can increase your engine oil change cost. For instance, a high-mileage oil change service usually costs more than a conventional one.
- Engine type: Engines with more cylinders use more oil, increasing the oil change price. For example, a four-cylinder engine may require 5 quarts of oil, while a V8 may need 10 quarts or more.
- Labor cost: Most mechanics charge an hourly fee for a filter and oil change service, which can fluctuate based on your location. For instance, mechanics in cities usually have higher labor rates than those in small towns.
- Repair shop type: Dealerships are typically more expensive due to their specialized expertise and use of Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts. Independent mechanics offer more competitive pricing, while quick-lube shops are the most budget-friendly option.
- Additional repairs: During a regular oil change service, a mechanic may check the oil filter housing and inspect the cabin air filter or fuel filter. They might also check the windshield washer fluid and power steering fluid levels. While these services keep your car in top shape, they also increase the overall cost.
- Old oil and filter disposal: After an oil change, the old fluid must be disposed of at oil recycling centers or auto parts stores. While many centers collect it for free, some may charge a disposal fee depending on state laws and regulations.
Is It Worth Replacing the Oil Filter?
Absolutely!
Driving with a clogged or old oil filter can restrict oil flow and lower oil pressure, leading to reduced fuel efficiency, poor engine performance, and higher emissions.
What’s worse?
Over time, this wear can shorten engine life and even result in sudden engine failure, putting your safety at risk.
So, whether you drive a Honda or a Toyota, replace the engine oil filter at the first sign of trouble to avoid costly repairs and keep your engine at its best.
7 Critical Signs You Need an Oil Filter Replacement
If you have a clogged or worn car oil filter, you may notice signs like:
- An illuminated oil warning or check engine light on your dashboard
- Metallic clunking or grinding noises coming from the engine due to inadequate lubrication caused by low oil pressure
- Dirty exhaust emissions from the tailpipe
- Reduced fuel efficiency
- Burning oil smell from the car’s engine bay
- Cracks or dents in the oil filter housing
- Physical engine wear or burnt components (visible during a visual inspection)
How Long Do Oil Filters Last?
A conventional oil filter typically lasts up to 5,000 miles, while a synthetic motor oil filter can go up to 10,000 miles before needing a replacement.
However, you might need an early replacement due to factors such as:
- Vehicle age: Older cars may accumulate more engine deposits over time, requiring more frequent oil filter changes.
- Driving conditions: If you frequently take short trips or drive on dusty roads, your car oil filter may clog faster due to airborne contaminants, requiring more regular replacements.
- Oil type: Synthetic or synthetic blend oil types last longer than regular oil, allowing for extended time between oil and filter changes.
Generally, it’s best to replace oil filters during routine oil changes (refer to your owner’s manual for the exact oil change interval). After all, you don’t want to run new, clean oil through old, clogged filters that restrict oil flow.
To be extra sure, you can ask your mechanic or dealer if your oil filter needs replacement while at the repair shop for another service.
4 FAQs about Oil Filters
Here are the answers to common queries you may have about oil filters:
1. What Does an Oil Filter Do?
The oil filter traps debris and contaminants in the motor oil before it travels through the engine. Without the filter, these contaminants can cause abrasions, sludge buildup on cylinder walls, and increased engine wear over time.
A well-functioning filter ensures smooth operation, prolongs engine life, and helps avoid costly repairs.
2. What Are the Benefits of an Oil and Filter Change Service?
Getting regular oil changes as per your manufacturer’s recommended oil change interval can help:
- Keep your engine well lubricated and prevent hastened engine wear
- Cool the car’s engine by reducing friction
- Clear sediment and deposit build-up from engine parts
- Improve fuel economy by ensuring clean oil circulates efficiently, allowing engine parts to function smoothly
3. Can You Change the Oil Filter Yourself?
While you can perform an oil filter change yourself, the process usually involves draining the old oil from the oil pan before accessing the filter. So, a DIY oil change can get messy. You’ll also need to dispose of the old oil and filter according to state regulations.
It’s best to trust a professional for a smooth oil filter replacement.
Here are the steps they’ll take to change your engine oil and filter:
- Prepare the vehicle: Park on level ground, let the engine cool completely, and raise the car if needed.
- Drain the old oil: Place an oil pan under the drain plug, remove the plug, and let the oil drain completely into the oil pan.
- Remove the old oil filter: Use an oil filter wrench to remove the old filter and let any remaining oil drain.
- Install the new oil filter: For a spin-on filter, lightly coat the gasket with oil and securely screw it into place. If your vehicle uses a cartridge-style filter, replace the filter element and properly reseal the housing as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Reinstall the drain plug: Clean the plug, check the gasket, and tighten it properly.
- Refill with fresh oil: Use a funnel to add the recommended fresh oil.
- Check for leaks: Start the engine, let it run for a few minutes, and inspect for leaks.
- Check oil level: Turn off the engine, wait a few minutes, and use the dipstick to confirm the correct oil level.
- Dispose of old oil and filter: Take the dirty oil and filter to an oil recycling center or a nearby auto parts store.
4. How to Choose the Right Oil Filter for Your Car?
When buying a new oil filter, keep these essential points in mind:
- Follow vehicle manufacturer recommendations: Check your car owner’s manual or consult your dealer for the correct engine oil filter specs. Using the recommended high-quality filter ensures a proper fit and helps your engine run smoothly.
- Filtration quality: A premium oil filter with advanced filter media, such as synthetic micro-glass fiber, offers better filtration and lasts longer than standard filters.
- Durability: Choose filter housing made from high-quality materials, like stainless or high-carbon steel. These materials can handle extreme pressure and temperature changes without breaking down.
- Warranty: A warranty protects you from defects or failures, reducing out-of-pocket expenses and giving you peace of mind.
Get Easy Oil Filter Change Services with AutoNation Mobile Service
An engine oil filter change is a minor maintenance task that ensures your vehicle runs smoothly. However, if left unaddressed, it can reduce fuel economy and lead to poor engine performance.
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