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When your air filter gets too dirty, it can cause all sorts of problems for your car. Not only will it make the car run less efficiently, but it can also damage the engine. If you’re not sure how to change your air filter, don’t worry – we’re here to help! In this blog post, we will give you a step-by-step guide on how to replace your air filter. We’ll also provide some tips on how to keep your air filter in good condition.
What Does the Air Filter Do?
The air filter’s job is to keep the air that goes into the engine clean. It does this by trapping dirt, dust, and other particles that could damage the engine. Over time, the air filter will get clogged with all of this debris, and it will need to be replaced.
Signs Your Air Filter is Dirty
A dirty air filter can cause a lot of problems for your car. When the filter is clogged, it restricts the flow of air to the engine. This can lead to a loss in power and mileage. In extreme cases, it can even damage the engine.
There are a few signs that you can look for to see if your air filter is dirty. One of the most obvious signs is a decrease in performance. If your car seems to be struggling to accelerate, it could be because the air filter is restricting airflow. You might also notice that your car’s fuel economy has decreased. This is because the engine has to work harder to compensate for the restricted airflow.
Another sign of a dirty air filter is black soot on the outside of the filter. This is caused by the engine burning oil, and it means that the air filter is not doing its job.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s probably time to replace your air filter. If you can’t tell by looking, but it’s been more than three years or 30,000 miles, you probably should get a new one
How to Tell if Your Air Filter Needs to be Replaced
AAA explains that visible dirt on the filter surface is not a good indicator. Air filters actually do a better job of trapping contaminants once they have been in operation long enough to gain a light coating of dust and dirt. To test an engine air filter, remove it from its housing and hold it up to a bright light such as a 100-watt bulb. If light passes easily through more than half of the filter, it can be returned to service.
The light test works well with pleated paper filters. However, some cars have extended life engine air filters with dense fabric filtering media that are highly effective, but don’t allow light to pass. Unless a filter of this type is visibly caked with dirt, replace it at the mileage intervals specified by the vehicle manufacturer.
Some vehicles, primarily pickup trucks, have an engine air filter service indicator on the filter housing. This indicator measures the air pressure drop across the filter when the engine is running; the pressure drop increases as the filter becomes more restricted. Check the indicator at each oil change and replace the filter when the indicator says to do so.
How to Replace Your Air Filter
Replacing your air filter is a fairly simple process. Most cars have the air filter located in the engine bay, and it should be easy to spot. Once you’ve found the air filter, follow these steps:
- Open the hood of your car and locate the air filter.
- Disconnect the air filter housing from the engine. This will usually involve removing a few screws or clips.
- Take out the old air filter and inspect it. If it is visibly damaged or extremely dirty, it needs to be replaced.
- Put the new air filter into the housing and make sure it is seated correctly.
- Reconnect the air filter housing to the engine.
- Close the hood of your car.
And that’s it! You’ve successfully replaced your air filter.
Scott’s Auto is Here For You
If you need help replacing your air filter or any other auto repair services, Scott’s Auto is here for you! Stop by a location nearest you today.
