How many types of automotive filter elements are there? What is the respective replacement cycle?

First of all, we should mention that there are many types of filter elements in a car, which can be classified into four categories: oil filter elements, gasoline filter elements, air filter elements and air conditioning filter elements. These filter elements have different functions and their replacement cycles are also different.

Let's talk about the oil filter element first. The function of the oil filter element is to filter impurities in the engine oil, ensure the purity of the oil and protect the engine. The replacement cycle of the oil filter is consistent with the maintenance cycle. This is because each time a vehicle is maintained, the engine oil needs to be changed, and the oil filter also needs to be replaced. Otherwise, the newly replaced engine oil will be contaminated by the old oil filter. As for the vehicle maintenance cycle, everyone is quite clear about it. For mineral oil, it should be done every half a year or 5,000 kilometers; for semi-synthetic oil, every 8 months or 7,500 kilometers; and for fully synthetic oil, every 1 year or 10,000 kilometers. The oil filter should be replaced accordingly.

The function of the gasoline filter element is naturally to filter impurities in the gasoline, with the aim of protecting the cleanliness of the vehicle's fuel system. In the past, air filters were divided into built-in and external types. Now, most of them are built-in air filters. The replacement cycle of the external air filter is relatively short, requiring replacement every two years or so, while the built-in air filter needs to be replaced every 6 to 8 years.

The air filter element is designed to prevent dust and impurities in the air from entering the engine. Its purpose is also to protect the engine and extend its service life. How often the air filter element needs to be replaced depends on the environment in which the vehicle is used. If the air quality in the area where the vehicle is located is relatively good, the air filter can be used for a longer time. It is acceptable to replace it once or every two years. However, if it is an industrial area or a place with severe pollution, the filter element will get dirty more quickly. It should be replaced more frequently. It can be replaced at the same time as each maintenance.

The last filter element is the air conditioning filter element. The air conditioning filter element is used to filter the air blown into the vehicle by the air conditioning system, ensuring the cleanliness of the air inside the vehicle. There are always bacteria and dust in the air conditioning system pipelines. If these bacteria and dust are blown into the vehicle, they will not only produce an unpleasant smell but also affect the health of the driver and passengers. Therefore, we should also pay close attention to the air conditioning filter and replace it regularly. Generally, it is recommended to replace it once a year and clean the air conditioning system.

From the above explanation, we know that there are many different types of filter elements in a car, all of which aim to protect vehicle components and maintain good vehicle condition. Therefore, although the filter element is small, it plays a significant role. We must replace all types of filter elements in the vehicle at the prescribed intervals.