When it comes to engine performance and fuel efficiency, the air filter plays an important role. Aftermarket air filters can lead to increases in engine performance and a certain increase in gasoline mileage rating, although these may be more noticeable on older cars. Replacing a clogged air filter can improve acceleration and fuel efficiency, depending on the make and model of your car. But how does an air filter make such a difference?A dirty or damaged air filter limits the amount of air flowing into your car's engine, causing it to work harder and therefore use more fuel.
Since your engine needs more than 10,000 liters of oxygen to burn every liter of fuel, it is important not to restrict this airflow. 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 is best to review the maintenance schedule provided by your car manufacturer for the proper replacement schedule. Dirty air filters reduce airflow: Air filters trap contaminants in a medium of paper and synthetic fibers.
Over time, this medium fills with dirt and debris, which prevents the engine from breathing properly. As a result, the engine will work harder and use more fuel. This effect is not so noticeable in modern fuel-injected engines. Late-model vehicles use one or more sensors to measure the amount of air entering the engine.
This information is used by the vehicle's on-board computer to adjust engine operation as needed. To some extent, the computer can compensate for a dirty air filter. However, if the air filter is clogged with dirt, the equipment may not be able to. A dirty cabin air filter can damage the air conditioning system, while a dirty engine air filter can cause engine problems. As the engine air intake filter becomes clogged with debris and airborne particles, the air flow to the engine is restricted and obstructs engine throttle power. Replacing a dirty engine filter can improve acceleration and overall engine performance.
Our specialists suggest checking your air filter every 3,000 to 6,000 miles. A simple visual inspection can keep the air filtration system, the engine and the entire vehicle in good condition. Our professional technicians perform a free inspection of both the cabin air filter and the engine air intake filter to ensure that both are clean and functional. We can guarantee that our honest staff never recommend unnecessary repairs or replacements. While a dirty cabin air filter can affect the air conditioning system, a dirty engine air filter can cause engine performance problems. Regardless of the exact figures, it is obvious that a clean air filter improves airflow to the engine and increases engine performance and gasoline consumption.
Over time, an oil filter becomes so clogged with impurities that it no longer cleans the oil effectively; dirty oil just keeps recirculating around the engine. Driving in dusty or rural locations can also cause air filter performance to drop more quickly, so keep in mind that where you drive will affect its duration. But in most cases, you should see an improvement in engine power soon after cleaning the filter. The cabin air filter is used whether you use air conditioning or heating in the car, as there is always air coming in and out of the passenger compartment. To promote engine health, most automakers recommend replacing the air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. Motorsports enthusiasts or drivers in very congested or dusty conditions should clean their filters more often. If the air filter is full of dirt, bugs or other obstacles, the engine may not receive as much oxygen as it needs. The air filter has a rectangular shape and is enclosed in a rectangular black plastic housing that will normally have clips or screws that keep it closed.
There is no need to replace the air conditioning filter in your car if you have already replaced the cabin air filter. Now that you know some of the key benefits of cleaning your air filter - better gas mileage, reduced emissions, improved acceleration, longer engine life and overall improved maneuverability - how can you tell if it's time to clean it? If your auto mechanic only checks the air conditioning system or cooling system without first assessing the condition of the cabin air filter, you could pay for unnecessary repairs. In conclusion, replacing a dirty or damaged air filter can increase fuel efficiency and improve acceleration depending on your car's make and model. It is recommended to replace your air filters at least every 12,000 to 15,000 miles (19,000 to 24,000 km). Cleaning your air filters regularly will help promote better gas mileage, reduced emissions and improved acceleration.
