[5th Gen : 08+]: Oil Change Indicator System
#12
The problem isn’t the oil, it’s filter construction. Most widely available filters just can’t withstand that long of time/distance without collapsing. Once collapsed, the paper will start tearing and having any remaining filter media left doesn’t matter at that point - the dirt and contamination the filter is supposed to collect will start getting into the engine through the tears.
Some aftermarket companies are beginning to produce what they’re calling “long life” filters that are supposed to withstand longer service intervals but I don’t know if there’s been any real world data (i.e. non-laboratory) to support whether or not they are meeting those goals.
That said, it doesn’t hurt to change just the filter, but what are the chances of doing so without having to change the oil shortly thereafter anyway?
Some aftermarket companies are beginning to produce what they’re calling “long life” filters that are supposed to withstand longer service intervals but I don’t know if there’s been any real world data (i.e. non-laboratory) to support whether or not they are meeting those goals.
That said, it doesn’t hurt to change just the filter, but what are the chances of doing so without having to change the oil shortly thereafter anyway?