Do you REALLY need a new air filter? This depends on the condition of your car's air filter. If the filter is dirty, replace it. If it is clogged or crumbles, replace it. Suppose a service location recommends replacing the filter because “it's dirty.
You should do what I always recommend and ask to see it. If the service department doesn't have the filter ready, they may not have inspected it. If they can show you the dirty filter in your car, ask to see a new one. This will allow you to see how bad the filter is and also allow you to check and make sure that they are using the correct filter.
A general rule of thumb for pleated air filters (such as those manufactured by FilterBuy) is to replace the filter every 90 days. As the filter traps more dirt, dust and allergens from the air, the efficiency of the filter decreases. Naturally, air filters need to be replaced in the event of damage. However, to maintain the maximum possible performance of your car, it is recommended that you 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 is best to review the maintenance schedule provided by your car manufacturer to get the proper replacement program. Appliances in smaller homes also need their air filters changed regularly. These appliances are often built with smaller filters and, therefore, may need to be changed as often as a filter in a larger home.
There are many harmful components in the air that your vehicle will trap before it enters the cab, so if you don't change it, you could encounter all kinds of permanent damage, including engine failure. When you change the air filter, it allows more air to flow through the system with lower energy consumption, resulting in better circulation, cleaner air and a lower electricity bill. If the air cleaner is dirty, it can restrict the free flow of air into the engine, which helps reduce fuel consumption, irregular operation, and can even generate an engine check light if it gets dirty enough. Keep in mind that if you are driving in a sandy or dusty area, you may need to change the filter more often than the recommended time for your vehicle. Furnaces and air conditioners in smaller homes need to pump less air for the same amount of temperature change, which can mean less frequent filter changes. The owner's manual should give you a more accurate estimate of exactly when your vehicle needs a new air filter.
Dirty or damaged air filters reduce airflow to the engine, which changes the car's air-fuel balance. Therefore, we have established that you must stick to the schedule to change your air filter; now let's see where these air filters can be found. In most modern cars and trucks today, the air filter is located inside a box-like plastic structure that can even be covered with another plastic cover of the engine or other parts of the vehicle, making identification and change a more complex process. If you've driven more than 12-15 thousand miles since last time you changed your air filter, it's probably time to change it. However, if your HVAC system works almost constantly, change the filter every few weeks (especially if you use a cheaper fiberglass filter). But do you really need to have your air filter replaced? Today we'll talk about some of the reasons why you may need a new engine air filter.
