An air filter might not seem an important component to regularly check and change, but they are essential in maintaining your car’s performance. The air filter prevents small particles from entering the engine and causing potentially expensive damage. But that’s not the only benefit, as you can read below.
1. Increased fuel efficiency:
Replacing a clogged air filter can increase fuel efficiency and improve acceleration, depending on your car’s make and model. When you realize that, it makes sense to regularly replace your air filters.
How can an air filter make so much difference? A dirty or damaged air filter limits the amount of air flowing into your car’s engine, making it work harder and, therefore, using more fuel. As your engine needs more than 10,000 liters of oxygen to burn every liter of fuel, it’s important not to restrict this airflow.
2. Reduced emissions:
Dirty or damaged air filters reduce the airflow to the engine, changing your car’s air-fuel balance. This imbalance can pollute spark plugs, causing the engine to miss or rough idle; increase engine depositions, and cause the ‘Service Engine’ light to turn on. More importantly, the imbalance also has a direct impact on your car’s exhaust emissions, contributing to the pollution of your surrounding environment.
3. Prolongs engine life:
A particle as small as a grain of salt can get through a damaged air filter and do a lot of damage to internal engine parts, such as cylinders and pistons, which can be very expensive to repair. That’s why regularly replacing your air filter is so important. A clean air filter is designed to capture dirt and debris from the outside air, preventing them from reaching the combustion chamber and reducing the likelihood of you receiving a large repair bill.
Replacing your air filters:
Naturally, your air filters should be replaced in case of any damage. However, to maintain the highest possible performance of your car, it is recommended to replace your air filters at least every 12,000 to 15,000 miles (19,000 to 24,000 km). This interval should be reduced if you often drive in dusty conditions. It’s best to check the maintenance schedule provided by the manufacturer of your car for the appropriate replacement schedule.
Inexpensive and quick:
Replacing an air filter is easy, quick, and inexpensive. However, there is a wide range of air filters available on the market and it is important that you get the right one for your car make and model. Check the owner’s manual to find out which type you need and where it is located in your car. Learn how easy it is to replace your air filters here.