Mazcare is going to list below the signs that your Mazda’s oil filter is clogged. It’s important that you have the oil changed in your Mazda every 3,000 miles to prevent the oil filter from getting dirty. A dirty oil filter can create problems in the engine that can damage it. It is much cheaper to get the oil changed regularly than it is to replace your Mazda’s engine. Let’s talk more about this below.
Problems With Performance
When the oil filter gets clogged, it is no longer able to remove the dirt and sediment that the oil picks up as it circulates through the engine. Consequently, you end up with dirty motor oil circulating through the engine and depositing the grime instead of picking it up. This affects your Mazda’s engine performance by slowing it down and causing it to sputter and struggle to run.
Problems With Gas Mileage
As you probably know, the only way you can get the best gas mileage out of your Mazda is if the engine is running efficiently. Because the clogged oil filter is causing the engine to run inefficiently, you are going to notice a significant difference in the gas mileage that your Mazda gets. This can be a huge problem if you are on a tight budget and cannot afford to go to the service station more often.
Reduction in Oil Pressure
You will also end up with an illuminated oil light on your Mazda’s dashboard if the oil filter is clogged. The clogged filter reduces the oil pressure and inhibits oil circulation. Consequently, the engine control module will receive error codes from system sensors that cause it to turn on the oil light. The oil light will stay on until you get an oil change and have the oil filter replaced.
Audible Metallic Engine Noise
We cannot stress enough how important it is that you stop driving your Mazda if you can hear clanking, grinding, or other metallic noises coming from the engine. This is metal-on-metal contact that is not being lubricated by motor oil. Continuing to drive your Mazda will damage the engine irreparably. This is a sign that the oil filter is no longer allowing motor oil into the engine.
Finally, Mazcare in Marietta, GA, advises that dirty motor oil will add to the hydrocarbons found in your Mazda’s exhaust. Consequently, the Mazda will fail its next emissions test if you haven’t had the oil and oil filter replaced by then.