Air Filter Replacement

Description: The typical air filter is a disposable, pleated-paper element with a sealing gasket made of synthetic material. Filters come in two main types: the panel style as used on most fuel-injected cars and the radial style, which is usually used on carbureted vehicles.

Maintenance Tips/Suggestions: Although your car’s owners manual may specify an inspection interval for the air filter, it’s really best that it be checked at every oil change. It should be changed every 9,000 to 12,000 miles. Dirty and dusty driving conditions will require more frequent filter replacements, so keep this in mind. Driving with a dirty filter restricts the air entering the engine, and if severe, can impact fuel economy and performance. If you decide to change the filter yourself, always do so with the engine off. Never start or run the engine with the air filter out of place. Most filters can be easily replaced by removing snap clips, a clamp or several screws. Make sure you use the filter specified for your car’s engine; do not try to make a filter fit. An improperly fitting filter can allow unfiltered air into the engine, causing engine damage.