When is it time to change my vehicles air filter, what is and air filter and what does it even do for my car?
HOW LONG DOES AN AIR FILTER LAST?
An engine air filter’s job is to keep the engine clean by trapping contaminants before they can enter. They’re made of pleated material, often a blend of natural and synthetic fibers, and they’re sometimes reinforced. The material is intended to capture particles measured in microns, sometimes down to 5 or 10 microns, so they don’t enter the engine and damage parts. They also need to be free flowing enough that the air isn’t restricted entering the engine.
Over time, the engine air filter becomes clogged and less effective. That’s why it’s important to change your car’s air filter regularly. Depending on your driving habits, you should change your air filter every 12 months or 12,000 miles. If you do a lot of stop-and-go driving in a dusty or polluted area, you’ll need to change it more often. To save yourself some money, you can even do it yourself. Just be sure to buy the right filter for your car and follow the instructions to swap it out.
Cabin air filters should be changed at roughly the same intervals. Like the filter for engine air, they can get clogged with bugs, dirt, pollen, leaves, and other environmental particles. They can also get saturated by water and develop mold or mildew that can stink up your car. Changing it annually is always a good practice.
Visit us at our collision centers in Weslaco TX, and Pharr TX our certified technicians are here ready to assist all your vehicles needs.
