Oil Filter Gasket — How To Tell When It Fails

When your vehicle's engine is running, there is a constant movement of the pistons and other components inside the engine. The movement generates lots of heat and friction, which calls for the introduction of a lubricant in the form of engine oil. Typically, the engine oil circulates through different components. It encounters contaminants and debris in the course of lubricating the engine components, which calls for an oil filter to help remove these unwanted contaminants. The oil filter connects to the engine via a special gasket made from toughened paper or rubber. The gasket has to be in good shape for your oil filter to perform its functions correctly. Look out for the following signs in case your gasket starts to fail: 

The "Check Light" Engine Is On

A bad oil filter gasket has a direct effect on the efficiency of your engine. Most engine models are sensitive to the quality of the lubrication that they receive, and they will respond to any changes affecting that quality. Therefore, a "check engine" light will come on to show that you have a bad oil filter gasket. In most cases, the light will stay on provided the engine is running. Other signals will depend on the technology equipped in the car. Cars with advanced engine sensors will come with a low engine oil level or low oil pressure lights. These are clear indications that the filtration system is losing oil, often through the oil filter gasket.

Oil Leaks From the Filter

The second sign of a bad oil filter gasket is oil leaking from the filter. The primary function of the gasket is to ensure an airtight and leak-free seal between the filter and the engine. When compromised, the gasket will allow the oil to seep through gradually. You can tell this by examining the bottom section of the oil filter that connects to the engine. If there are stains of oil around it, then you have a bad oil filter gasket. It is worth noting that the best practice would be to get new a gasket along with a new filter so that you have a perfect fitting.

Low Oil Pressure Warning

Engine oil needs a little pressure to move through the system as it lubricates the engine components. When your gasket allows oil leaks to happen, the amount of oil reduces significantly and that affects the pressure level. A low engine oil pressure warning from your instrument cluster means there is a leak somewhere, and the oil filter gasket is a good place to start your diagnosis. You should fix it as soon as possible to prevent engine failure.

If you are having issues with your oil gasket, contact a car service for help.

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