Downside of using a filter with no bypass?

[Farmer]

Say someone who owns a vehicle and they decide to use a filter which is the exact same spec as what the manufacturer calls for but without a bypass valve. What would happen in the long run?

 

[Sayjac]

The internal bypass is designed to 'relieve' differential pressure when it get's above a spec'd pressure. With none there it will be relieved with next easiest path, that would be the media. In other words pressure would build on the media, possibly to point of blowing out the media. Then you're in perma bypass.

Also why bypass referred to as a pressure relief valve.

Sure there are more technical explanations, but from a practical stand point that's what could happen.

 

[HerrStig]

Such filters are made because some engine makers install a bypass in the engine so none is needed in the filter. If that's the case with yours, no problem. Seems to me GM has done this on some products.

 

[Donald]

In very cold weather with conventional oil, the engine is likely to be in and out of bypass mode a few times during startup. So it effects the flow more than just when the filter is clogged.

 

[ZeeOSix]

Bypass valve doesn't effect the flow to the engine. Only the pressure control valve on the oil pump does that.

 

[SilverC6]

Oil starvation could occur at start up.

Media failure and even can rupture could occur if a filter was clogged during an extended OCI.

If OEM spec. for your car includes a bypass, why not use the correct filter with a bypass.