If it is the first time you are buying a car air filter, you may wonder whether all of them are universal. Expect a few manufacturers who share power plants to make identical service parts;
In short, No, Air filters are model-specific. This means you have to get a filter that is meant for your car model. For vehicles with similar engine models and ranges, you can use their air filters interchangeably.
In this article, I will share more about car air filters, their importance, and how to buy them.
What is a Car Air Filter, And What does it Do?
Gas and air are mixed proportionally before entering the engine. As you press down the accelerator, more air is sucked, and more fuel is used to give out more power.
As the air is sucked, it may come with contaminants and particles that will damage your engine. This is where a car air filter comes in to filter out unwanted particles. Filters are made with papers and synthetic fibers and can remove more than 90% of contaminants in the air.
Besides filtering, filters are also very essential in settling air. Engines want uniform and settled air to function correctly. You can imagine without a filter, air will be entering the engine randomly and unbalanced. Settling is made possible by a MAF sensor that measures airflow volume before it’s allowed into the engine.
How to Buy the Right Air Filter for your vehicle
The car air filter is the best defense you have against dirt and particles that may shorten your engine’s life. A filter will cost a few bucks, while an engine can cost you a whole fortune.
Therefore, whenever your filter gets dirty, you have to protect your engine by getting a new and quality one. While buying, the following considerations will help you make the best decision;
Milage rating
A high mileage rating is essential because it determines how long you will take before a change is required. The higher the mileage rating, the better.
98% or higher contaminants removal ratings
You don’t want a filter that will allow even little dirt to enter the engine. A higher percentage means more effectiveness.
SAE tested and approved
This is a good sign that you are getting a good product that will give you a quality service. Other considerations include a low micron rating, super protection against dirt and dust, and the price. High-quality products will come at a higher price tag. When on a budget, you have to look for a product that will give the best bang for your buck.
How Often Should You Replace Your Car Air Filter?
Ideally, you should refer to the owner’s manual maintenance schedule and practice what the manufacturer recommends. For most vehicles, an air filter change is recommended after 12,000 to 15,000 miles.
However, sincerely speaking, while replacing service parts, it will boil down to your driving condition and when it no longer operates properly.
If you usually drive off-road and subject your vehicle to a lot of stress, then you may find yourself replacing the filter more often than the manufacturer’s recommendation. Whenever you notice differences in how your car’s air filter operates, contact your mechanic to check its condition.
How Do I Replace a Car Air Filter
Changing an air filter is never a complicated process. You can do it yourself in the following easy-to-follow steps;
- The first step is to locate the air filter box. It’s usually a black plastic on top or on the side of the engine and a hose on its side.
- Remove the lid fasteners, and in some cases, the MAF sensor connector.
- Take out the dirty air filter. If it’s old and you see a lot of dirt on the inside, then it’s time to replace it.
- Clean the box base and replace the new air filter in the space.
- Ensure it fits in snugly.
- Replace the ducts, lid fastener, and MIF sensor, and you are done.
How do you know It’s Time to Replace Your Filter?
Air filters are designed to clean air before allowing it to the engine. It traps contaminants like dust, debris, and leaves, thus extending your engine life.
As the filter collects dirt, it’s clogged, blocking much air than it should. This will impact the performance of your vehicle. Here are some signs that your filter is dirt and a change is required; Your vehicle will have a feel of sluggish movement.
Effects of a Clogged Filter
If you notice that your vehicle is responding slowly after pressing the accelerator, it may be a sign is not getting enough air. Air is mixed with fuel before moving into the combustion chamber.
Reduced air will reduce the engine power too. Whenever your engine produces strange noises, it’s a sign something is not operating as it should. In this case, it can be a clogged air filter.
This can also be accompanied by excessive vibration. Likely, the damaged air filter is also damaging the spark plugs, thus causing more vibrations. Your check engine light is on.
A damaged air filter can lead to carbon deposits that will trigger the check engine light. If you see this light, you should contact your mechanic to perform checks. It may be a dirty air filter. Is your vehicle consuming more gas than it usually does under your normal driving conditions?
Well, you may want to check your car’s air filter. The carburetor mixes air and gas in the proper ratios to provide appropriate engine power. When there is not enough air coming, it will mix more gas to compensate for the air. Other signs that you can note include dirty smoke coming from the tailpipe and reduced engine performance.
Final Takeaways: Are all Car Air Filters the Same?
Car air filters, although not all, can be used interchangeably. However, it is advisable to use your brand-specific air filter whenever possible. Also, always choose a good quality filter for a more extended quality service.
Robert Anderson is a world class motorhead who rebuilt his first carb at age 10, his first engine at age 15, and completed his first full hotrod build when he was just 18! Previously, he has ran a part warehouse, delivered pizzas, and managed the service department for a $20 million/year revenue dealership. Robert knows cars like few others and he is passionate about sharing his knowledge.
