Air Filter Replacements

What Does an Air Filter Do?

There are a couple of different types of air filters in your vehicle. One works to clean any air that enters the cabin, where the driver and any passengers sit. The other works to clean the air for your engine. Both are important, albeit for different reasons.

The main role of an air filter is to remove contaminants from the air that you breathe in the cabin and remove contaminants from entering the engine. Air filters help remove the likes of bacteria, pollen, dust, and other particulates so you and other passengers can breathe easily and your engine performs better for longer.

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Signs You Need an Air Filter Replacement

Air filters are often checked when you bring your vehicle in for oil change service. However, you may need to replace your filters in between regular service intervals. Here's a look at some signs you need engine air filter replacement:

• Reduced fuel economy
• Reduced power
• Engine misfires
• Strange noises from the engine

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Cabin air filter replacement may be necessary if you're experiencing:

• Poor airflow from vents
• Heating or cooling inefficiencies
• Foul odors
• Enhanced allergic reactions when driving your vehicle
• Foggy windows
• Noticeable dust and debris buildup within the vehicle

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How Often You Should Replace Your Air Filters

How often you should replace your air filters varies from vehicle to vehicle and where you typically drive your vehicle. For instance, if you regularly drive on dirt roads, you'll likely accumulate dust and debris faster, meaning you'll also want to change your air filters more regularly. Generally speaking, it's best practice to plan on changing your air filters every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or once per year (whatever comes first).

A good mechanic will inspect your air filters as part of a routine vehicle inspection when you bring it in for an oil change and give you a status report on whether it needs to be replaced or when you may need to replace it in the future.

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