What are Car Air Filters? 

While most only consider the engine air filter as the only one, the fact remains incorrect.  

A car consists of two air filters: cabin air filter and engine air filter.  

The cabin air filter is responsible for cleaning any air that passes through the coolants or other ventilation systems.  

Whereas the engine air filter takes on the role of cleaning the air flow within the engine. It protects the engine from dirt, bugs and other uninvited elements.  

In this blog, we will discuss both air filters. Their functions, how often they require replacement and how-tos.  

Stay engaged to find out.  

Cabin Air Filter 

Why Replace Cabin Air Filter? 

Once the filter is a bit rusty, it’s crucial you have it changed. Why?  

• The passengers become more exposed to unhealthy fumes including hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide (CO) and more.  

• The filter’s potential to restrict the entry of allergens becomes limited. 

• Vehicle maintenance is less expensive with a working cabin air filter.  

• Dirty filters put more pressure on the ventilation system. Thus, making it work harder. 

• This could also lead to motor burnout. 

• The worst-case scenario isn’t far away: Broken Air Conditioner.  

How Long Does Car Air Filter Last?  

 The golden rule is to replace the cabin air filter after every 30,000 miles of usage. But how to tell if your car filter needs replacing immediately? Here’s how:  

• Annoying noises from the cooling or ventilation system.  

• Weak airflow from the coolant.  

• Car air filter making whistling noise within the cabin.  

• Stale smell in the car. 

  
  Read More:
  

  Cabin Air Filter Replacement Service in Glynde

How to Replace Cabin Air Filter?  

Step 1: Keep tools handy.  

Step 2: Find the cabin air filter located behind the glove box. Check the positioning of the filter. So, you know how to locate the next.  

Step 3: Clean out each tiny speck of dust and debris.  

Step 4: Check the arrows (to show the channel of airflow) on the new filter. Position it accordingly.  

Step 5: Now place the glove box as it was.  

Bingo! Your task’s over.  

Engine Air Filter 

Why Change Car Air Filter? 

• A jammed engine air filter uses more fuel because of strained airflow.  

• To reduce fume emission. 

• A bad air filter can damage spark plugs and turn the Check Engine light on.  

• Clogs the oil filter causing mechanical issues.  

When does Car Air Filter Need to be Replaced?  

Air filters vary with different car models. Thus, each has a different shelf life. However, the average goes up to around 12,000 miles.  

Other warning signs are: 

• Low fuel economy. 

• Decreasing shelf life of the engine.  

• Knocking sounds from the engine.  

• Blinking Check Engine Light.  

• You can see black smoke coming out of the emission pipe.  

 

How to Replace Engine Air Filter? 

Every model has a different mechanism. So, each process might vary a bit. However, the general process of car air filter installation entails certain steps:  

Step 1 

Open the engine hood.  

Step 2 

You will locate a large container right in front of the engine. Access to the container varies according to the model. Some are held shut with spring clips, while the rest are accessed by removing screws and the air duct.  

Step 3  

Remove all fasteners and clamps. Remember their positioning so you’re able to put them back in place.  

Step 4 

Now that you have access to the air filter, remove it. Once done, clean the space it was located in.  

Step 5 

Make sure you align the new filter like the old one and place it inside the container.  

Step 6 

Put the duct and fasteners back in place, just the way it held the old air filter.  

Step 7 

Ignite the engine and check for unusual noises. If not, you’re good to go!  

The Bottom Line 

Air filters hold quite an important place in the automobile hierarchy. They act as the lungs of the engine as well as the car.  

Clean air filters lengthen your car’s shelf life. Thus, maintenance and timely replacement is crucial to keep your car functioning.  

Car air filter replacement is a no-brainer. Yet, if any of the steps mentioned above seem complicated- seek expert advice. Experts will know exactly what’s wrong with your car’s air filter and handle it accordingly.