Air filters are probably one of the parts most car owners overlook, understandably. They’re located under the hood, out of sight. However, this small device plays a big role in supplying the engine with air and keeping the air inside the vehicle clean. With that in mind, having a functional air filter becomes critical.
So how often to change air filter in car? The good news is that the air filter is one of the easiest parts to look after. Learn more about it by reading our piece below.
How Often Should You Change the Air Filter in Your Car?
General Replacement Guidelines
For most vehicles, a good baseline is to change air filters every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. If keeping in track with distance is not your preference, aim for about once a year. It is also worth noting that this general guideline can vary depending on the car’s brand as well as your driving environment. Always check your vehicle’s manual for specific instructions.
Driving Conditions Can Shorten Air Filter Life
If you live in an area that’s dusty or heavily polluted, naturally your car’s air filter will be dirty faster than those who live in a much cleaner area. Driving past dirty roads or construction zones may require you to change your air filter as early as 6,000 – 10,000 miles.
Regular Inspections Are Important
It’s always a good idea to inspect your vehicle’s air filters regularly. Don’t wait until you notice issues. Checking on the air filter is an easy and quick task. Hold the filter up to a bright flashlight, and if the light cannot shine through the paper pleats, or if the material looks noticeably dark and gray, it is officially time to replace it.
Signs Your Engine Air Filter May Need Replacement
Reduced Engine Performance
The air filter allows clean air to enter the engine, which is necessary for efficient fuel combustion. So, when the air filter is dirty, such as when it is clogged, it prevents air from effectively entering the engine. As a result, you may notice the car feels sluggish or lacks the usual punch and power when you step on the gas pedal.
Lower Fuel Efficiency
To make up for the missing air, the engine will need to use more fuel to do the job effectively, throwing off the delicate inner working balance. If you start noticing that you’re making more frequent trips to the gas pump for your normal weekly routine, a dirty air filter is often the hidden culprit.
Dirty or Discolored Filter
The most obvious sign of the need for air filter replacement is the look of it. A brand-new engine air filter is usually bright white or an off-white color, while a dull gray or brown is a clear indication of a dirty filter.
Check Engine Light
Today’s vehicles are outfitted with smart sensors that monitor how much air and fuel enter the engine at any given moment. If a dirty air filter is restricting airflow to the engine, it can trigger an error code in the vehicle’s computer system. So, the next time the “Check Engine” light appears on the dashboard, it could be due to a problem with the air filter.
Unusual Engine Sounds
Another sign to look for is how the engine sounds when idling or parked. A healthy engine should deliver a smooth and steady hum. If you can hear a popping or a rough coughing sound, and it’s vibrating, it may come from the engine working harder to get air.
What Happens If You Don’t Replace Your Air Filter?
Ignoring a dirty air filter can be devastating for a vehicle’s performance and engine efficiency. A severely clogged filter can restrict airflow to the engine, reducing performance and, in some vehicles, contributing to reduced fuel economy. A damaged or improperly installed air filter can also let dirt and other contaminants enter the engine, which can cause premature wear on sensitive components.
Regularly checking and replacing the air filter when needed is a simple maintenance step that can help maintain proper engine performance and avoid potentially more costly repairs.
Engine Air Filter vs. Cabin Air Filter: What’s the Difference?
Engine Air Filter
An engine air filter is like your vehicle’s lungs, protecting your car’s mechanical health by trapping dirt, dust, and other debris so they don’t get sucked into the combustion chambers. That’s why, when the engine air filter is dirty, it can send all the debris directly to the engine and cause weak performance and potentially reduced fuel economy.
Cabin Air Filter
The cabin air filter has a similar role but with a different focus. It helps maintain clean air inside the cabin for the driver and all passengers. And instead of blocking heavy road debris, it is tightly woven to catch tiny airborne irritants like pollen, exhaust soot, mold spores, and dust. Ignoring the cabin air filter will not have an effect on your car’s performance, but it will affect the air quality inside the cabin.
Can You Inspect the Air Filter Yourself?
Where the Air Filter Is Located
The engine air filter is located under the hood, usually housed inside a black plastic box, sitting off to the side of the engine. The cabin air filter is placed directly on the back of the dashboard’s glove box compartment.
What To Look For
Once you have the air filter, look at the pleated paper. A healthy, working filter should look clean and mostly white or off-white. If the paper is dark gray, brown, or black, or if you see piles of leaves, bugs, and dirt packed deep into the folds, it is definitely time for a new one.
When To Have It Professionally Inspected
Checking the air filter in most cars does not require complex steps. However, in some modern and luxury cars, the air box can be located deeper and beneath a complex engine plastic cover. If you’re unsure about accessing the air filter or if it requires removing other vital engine parts, it is best to leave it to professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I change the air filter in my car?
Replace the air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or once a year. However, if you regularly drive in a dusty environment, you may need to change it more often.
What happens if I don’t replace my engine air filter?
Letting your air filter get dirty can result in many issues, including reduced engine efficiency, increased engine Wear, possible reduction in fuel economy, and damage to sensitive engine components.
How do I know if my air filter needs replacing?
If you notice poor engine performance, low fuel efficiency, unusual engine noise, or a discolored filter.
Is changing an air filter expensive?
The air filter itself costs around $10-$30. You’ll pay extra if you use a mechanic to change it. However, some stores provide free assistance when you buy the parts from them.
Don’t wait until your air filter is causing issues with the engine and overall performance of your car. Inspect your vehicle’s air filter, and if the signs are there, replace it right away. Call Rohrich Automotive for all your car questions and professional help.