Car engines are complex. With so many core components, it\u2019s not unusual for the average driver to overlook some of them. Car air filters are a classic example. These relatively uncomplicated devices are crucial to a healthy vehicle but rarely get the attention they deserve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As a result, they aren\u2019t changed as often as they need to be. Considering they\u2019re frontline protection for your engine, this puts more expensive components in the firing line \u2013 not to mention your wallet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Let\u2019s examine why many people need to change their car air filters more regularly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We all know that cars need fuel to function, but like humans, they also need air. Like humans, they prefer nice, clean air. This is where the car air filter comes in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Made from pleated material (cotton, synthetic paper or foam), the air filter removes any nasty particles from the air before they reach the engine, such as dust, debris, sand, and insects. This ensures a good mix of air and fuel to help performance and combustion, which in turn ensures optimum fuel efficiency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. It\u2019s cheaper in the not-so-long run.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Yep, you read that right. Spending money on your car air filter actually saves <\/em>you money. Firstly, a clogged air filter reduces the amount of air that enters the engine, forcing it to work harder. When it works harder, it gulps more fuel. A clean air filter improves your fuel efficiency, and the cost of replacing it is usually recouped within five or six trips to the bowser.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Secondly, a clean air filter stops particles from entering the combustion chamber and damaging the cylinder walls. If this damage is allowed to continue for a period of time, you\u2019ll be looking at repairs far dearer than a simple air filter change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 2. It\u2019s better for the environment.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Cars aren\u2019t great for the environment, but some are worse than others. Those operating with clogged air filters are certainly doing more damage to the world we live in than would otherwise be the case. An imbalance in the air-fuel mix \u2013 caused by old air filters \u2013 causes spark plugs to misfire, increases engine deposits, and might even lead to the dreaded \u2018Engine Service\u2019 light turning on. It also leads to more contaminants in your car\u2019s exhaust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Also, because clogged air filters make your car churn through more fuel, you\u2019re, well, churning through more fuel. Not very green, either.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 3. You get to keep your car for longer.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n As you\u2019ve read, old air filters damage engines. The more grit that gets through, the quicker expensive engine components are worn down and need replacing. The simple fact is that your car requires a clean air filter for its protection and to ensure the right air-fuel mix for optimum performance. Without it, your car suffers, and so will your wallet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The common recommendation for replacing air filters is every 40,000 to 50,000 km. If, however, you live in a particularly polluted city or drive mostly on dusty roads, this interval will shorten. As we\u2019ve explained, sticking to this schedule isn\u2019t going to cost more money \u2013 it\u2019s actually going to save you in the long run. Your car will operate more efficiently, sipping instead of gulping fuel, and its core components will last longer. Car air filters are one part we all need to stop overlooking.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Tell-tale signs you need a new car air filter<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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How often should my car air filter be replaced?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n