Oil filter key in keeping contaminates from your oil

Whether you are powering your way to the front of a race at Daytona, or treading up a steep country hill on the way to your in-laws, engine performance is vital.

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We all know that behind every great engine is a set of well-maintained components, but did you know that one of the most inexpensive, yet overlooked part of your vehicle's engine lubrication system is the oil filter?

The moving parts of your engine require clean oil as lubrication to protect the engine from premature wear. The oil filter cleans the oil as it passes through, removing dangerous particles and contaminates before they can do harm to your engine.

Highlighting the actions your oil filter takes to protect your engine helps to show its true value in protecting your vehicle.

Oil enters the oil pump when the engine is running from a screened intake -- or oil pickup -- near the bottom of the oil pan. Oil is then drawn through the screen filter, and forced by the oil pump through the oil filter. This oil is then distributed to parts of the engine, including the camshaft, pistons, and cylinder heads.

When the oil that is dispersed to the engine is not clean, all of these components can become damaged, leading to very expensive repairs.

Maintenance of your oil filter can be the difference between a quick and inexpensive preventative measure, and a lengthy and costly engine repair.

For more information on oil filters, visit www.wixfilters.com.