Engine air filters should be changed how often? Many factors affect the answer. People who drive on dirt roads may need to change their filters more often. Since high-performance and turbocharged engines draw in more air, air filters must be updated often.
Like other car owners, you may worry about the engine air filter’s efficiency because summer heat stretches it. Most manufacturers recommend changing the engine air filter every 12,000–30,000 miles or a year. Owner’s manuals provide specific advice based on automobile make and model.
To determine the answer, evaluate all those points, starting with engine air filter operation.
What is the function of an engine air filter?
Engine air filters are like tiny kitchen sieves. Tangled bundles of microscopic fibers restrict dust, grime, and pollen from accessing delicate engine components. This maintains air-to-fuel balance.
Replacement of Engine Air Cleaner filter
Change the engine filter without seeing the professional. Change it yourself in minutes using these steps:
- The tools and materials you need are a new air filter, a screwdriver or wrench, and a clean rag.
- Pull the release lever by the driver seat or steering wheel to open the hood. Then lift and secure with a prop rod.
- Air filter position varies by vehicle model. Plastic rectangular engine filters are still seen at the front grill. Check your vehicle manual if you can’t find it.
- Some cars include screws, nuts, or clips to remove the filter housing. You may need to unplug the air inlet to simplify.
- Remove the old filter and note its installation direction. After removing the old filter, follow its directions to install a new one snugly.
- Clean the Air Filter Housing: Use a rag to clean the filter housing now. This prevents loose particles from entering the engine.
- Sep up the New Air Filter: Now, accurately put the new air filter in the housing. Take this because this is very important when changing air filters.
- Reattach the housing cover: Use screws, clips, or latches to secure it well to prevent leaks.
How Often Should I Replace the Air Filter in My Car Engine?
As said, change your air filter annually or every 12,000–30,000 miles. How often you change the air filter depends on your automobile model, driving conditions, and frequency. Hyundai recommends 15000 miles for hard driving and 30000 for normal. Chevrolet recommends replacing it every 45000 miles. Ford recommends replacing engines every 45,000 miles.
If you drive often in cities or dust, check it for filter replacement more often.
You can’t always tell by checking. If you’re not sure if your car air filter needs replacement, look for reduced MPG and fuel economy, rough start, rough idle, slow acceleration with less power, and carbon deposits in the engine.
Why Must Air Filters Be Replaced?
Changing your air filter improves engine performance. There are several reasons to replace it:
Lower emissions: Preventing contaminants from entering the engine improves combustion. This lowers air pollution-causing emissions.
Better HVAC capacity: Clogged filters decrease airflow. By changing the air filter periodically, you ensure unrestricted airflow that affects HVAC performance.
Keeps components healthy: Neglecting your air filter can damage pistons, cylinders, and the blower motor. Regular replacement reduces repair costs and extends component life.
Lower fuel efficiency: HVAC systems with unclean engine air filters use more energy, costing more fuel. Changing the filter when due reduces stress and boosts vehicle economy.
Warranty maintenance: Failure to replace air filters as required by manufacturers can void your warranty. Following the rules maintains the guarantee and protects your investment.
