Signs You Need a New Air Filter

The function of the air filter is to prevent sand and dust from flowing into the engine intake system, maintain the engine's cylinder, piston and piston rings, extend the service life of the engine, and enable the engine to fully burn fuel.

The function of the air filter is to prevent sand and dust from flowing into the engine intake system, maintain the engine's cylinders, pistons and piston rings, extend the service life of the engine, enable the engine to fully burn fuel, avoid dust from wearing on the engine, and thus ensure that the engine Effective use of power and extension of service life, while reducing environmental pollution.

Air filters can be divided into three categories based on how impurities are removed:

Inertial type: When the airflow rapidly changes the flow direction, larger particles are removed due to the greater inertia of the dust particles.

Oil bath type: Before the air enters the filter element, it flows over the surface of the engine oil at the air flow turning point, and large particles are thrown out due to inertia, and the dust is adhered to the oil.

Filtration type: multiple collisions occur when the air flows through the micropores of the filter element or the narrow and tortuous filter element channel, causing dust to be blocked or adhered to the filter element. This is a major filtration method and is the most effective for removing fine dust.

The air filter used on modern engines combines the above three filtration methods to form a comprehensive air filter.

Shop for air filters online or visit our website to find the product you want and let one of our knowledgeable team members help you.

FAQs Concerning Air Filters

How do I know when it's time to change my air filter?

Most of the air filters we use are dry air filters, and their filter materials are almost all paper or non-woven fabrics. When the air passes through the filter material, dust and impurities will be adsorbed on the surface of the fiber layer, while clean air enters the air through the filter paper. filter inside. Each time you blow the air filter, the strong airflow will blow away the dust and also make the gap between the fiber layers larger. The more times you blow the air filter, the larger the gaps between the fiber layers will be. As a result, dust and impurities in the air will enter the engine through these gaps, which will not only cause the parts in the engine to wear, but also easily cause carbon deposits to contaminate the engine oil. We must remember to blow the air filter frequently. Generally, it is time to replace the air filter with a new one after blowing it 3 times.

How much do air filters cost?

The phrase starting with 'You need to replace...can send shivers down the spine of any car owner, but the air filter is one of the cheapest fixes in your vehicle. Many range from $15 to $25 depending on your car's make, model and engine.

What happens if I never change my car's air filter?

Dirty air filters restrict airflow to your engine which restricts both power and efficiency. Over time, a dirty air filter will cut down the mileage and affect how well your car accelerates and runs.

Buy replacement air filters online or visit your local Advance Auto Parts store and have one of our knowled gable Team Members help you.

Signs You Need a New Air Filter

A dirty air filter slows down your car. A really dirty air filter could let in dirt and debris that risks damaging your engine. These are the signs it's time to change yours for a fresh, clean air filter:

1.Mechanic's Recommendation

Your mechanic should let you know when it's time to change your air filter, but you should use the steps below to confirm for yourself (and change your own because it's easy and will save money).

2.Overall Mileage

When one tank of gas doesn't last as long as it did in the past.

3.Overall Power

A noticeable reduction in acceleration or overall 'sluggish' feel when you drive.

4.Dirt & Debris

Dust or dirt falls out of your air filter when you remove it and give it a shake.

5.Engine Noise

An especially dirty air filter can let debris into your car's spark plugs, causing engine noise and even misfiring.

6.Exhaust

Dark smog emits from your car's exhaust

Types of Air Filter

There are three different types of engine air filters — paper, gauze, and foam. While you may not have to decide which one is right for your (most people will follow the manufacturer's recommendation), it's useful to know the difference.

● Paper air filter

This is the most common filter on the road and the most affordable option for most people. However, since they are typically replaced every 5,000 to 10,000 miles, replacement costs can add up over time.

● Gauze air filter

These are a popular choice for long-term use because the gauze filters can be cleaned and reused. There are two types of gauze air filters: Oil gauze filters use oil to trap dirt and debris and need to be re-oiled every 5,000 to 10,000 miles after cleaning, while dry synthetic gauze filters only need to be cleaned and reinstalled.

● foam air filter

These are more common in smaller motors like lawn mowers, but some filters have foam wraps that add protection to the air filter.

How to Install an Air Filter

Every car is different and you should check your owners manual for the specific steps of an air filter replacement, but most will follow these general steps:

1.Open the hood of your car and find the intake. It usually looks like a big black box with a large hose leading into your engine and it's often explicitly labeled.

2.Find any hooks, latches, or screws that hold it in place (there shouldn't be many). Undo them and lift up the intake cover, exposing the air filter.

3.Pull out the air filter, playing close attention to how it was installed (some air filters point in a specific direction) and install the new one the same way.

Close up the intake, shut the hood, and you're off!