The Crucial Role of Air Filters – When and How to Replace them

2023-10-23

Keep your engine healthy, maintaining high levels of performance and enhancing fuel efficiency are all factors which can be affected when an air filter has not been maintained correctly. In this blog, we will delve into the importance of air filters, when and why air filters need replacing and how to replace them.

Why are Air Filters important?

Air filters are a crucial component of your vehicle with the purpose of filtering any harmful impurities in the air being the first line of defence for your engine. Here are some key reasons why an air filter is important:

• Engine protection: If an air filter has any wear and tear, it can lead to costly repairs. A clean air filter protects sensitive parts of the engine from being damaged.
• Clean Air Supply: The main purpose of an Air Filter is to prevent any impurities like debris, dust, or pollen from entering your engine. This part is essential for combustion, being at the heart of smooth-running engine operation.
• Performance: A congested air filter will not provide the correct amount of air intake. This can affect the overall performance of a vehicle, making the acceleration feel slow and power to be reduced.
• Fuel Efficiency: A clogged air filter can also influence fuel efficiency, making the engine work harder, and using more fuel to gain the same amount of power. However, when the air filter is clean, filtered air runs through the filter making the vehicle operate more efficiently.

When to replace your Air Filter

Below are some general points to consider when checking your Air Filter.

• Regular Maintenance: In most cases, it is advised to check the air filter component between 15,000 and 30,000 miles. Driving in highly polluted areas on a regular basis will contribute to changing the air filter more frequently. Make sure to check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for manufacturer-recommended maintenance.
• Reduced Fuel Efficiency: A decrease in fuel efficiency can be caused by a clogged air filter. Replacing the old air filter can often restore the vehicle’s mileage to normal.
• Poor Performance: In the first instance of diagnosis, noticing a lack of power and slow acceleration can cause a clogged air filter. Replacing the air filter with a new one can improve the vehicle’s performance.

How to replace your Air Filter

Below are the steps to replace your air filter, this process is reasonably simple to follow:

1. Find the air filter box: Check the owner’s manual for the exact location. It is normally found underneath the bonnet of your vehicle.
2. Take out the old filter: Once you have found the air filter box, carefully remove the old filter. Remember the filter’s position as you will need to put the new filter in the same place.
3. Clean the filter housing: Before replacing the old filter, it is pivotal to avoid letting debris fall into the air box pipes, also clean the housing area for any loose debris.
4. Insert the new filter: Place the new filter in the correct location, it should fit quite tightly and be snug once fully inserted.
5. Close the box: The air filter box should be closed once the new air filter has been fitted, ensure it is secure and closed.

By following the steps to change your air filter. It should be a simple task, which can be achieved to make a difference in the fuel efficiency and performance of your vehicle. If you can follow the recommended guidelines, you will keep your engine running well, benefiting from the clean air and better mileage on your drives.

With over 16,000 approved garages, a 24/7 service and a host of cost-saving offers, Autoserve can keep your car running smoothly. Call one of our professional Service Advisors on 0121 521 3500 for more details.  After all one call does it all!