The air filter in your car plays a vital role in how your car operates. However, many people who are unfamiliar with automotive repair don't understand it's importance. If you aren't familiar with automotive repair, you may have many questions about what a car filter is and why it is important. Getting answers to these questions will help you to better understand the importance of this car part.

What Does a Car Air Filter Do?

Your car air filter helps protect your engine. The air filter is positioned in front of the engine, which is why it is also commonly referred to as an engine air filter. As you drive, your engine sucks in air to help regulate its temperature. However, without a filter, the air being sucked in would be filled with dirt, dust, pollen and other debris that floats around outside. These items can get stuck in the engine and cause damage or lead to overheating, which is why they need to be filtered out. 

How Often Does an Air Filter Need to be Replaced?

As the air filter catches contaminants, it becomes full. When this happens, the engine will have problems pulling in air and dirty air can be pulled into the engine. Because of this, it is important that you replace the air filter in a timely manner. However, if you are not familiar with cars, you may not be sure how often the filter needs to be replaced. Unfortunately, there is not a one-size-fits all recommendation as to how frequently the air filter needs to be replaced. Different vehicle manufacturers have different recommendations. For example, some car companies might recommend that you replace the air filter every 45,000 miles while Ford and Hyundai recommend changing the air filter every 30,000 miles. Additionally, if you drive in severe driving conditions, such as frequently driving in stop and go traffic or on dusty dirt roads, your air filter may need to be replaced as frequently as every 15,000 miles.

Because recommendations vary as to how frequently your air filter needs to be replaced, eyeing the air filter may be the best way to determine if yours needs to be replaced. If you look at the air filter and can see it is full or can identify black areas on the filter, it needs to be replaced.

Is This a Repair that the Average Person Can Do?

Replacing a car air filter is a relatively easy repair and even those who aren't familiar with automotive repair should be able to complete this task. First, check your owner's manual to find out what size air filter your car uses. The size varies based on your car and you need the correct size. If you can't find your manual, most auto repair shops can help you determine what size you need. Then, follow these steps to replace the air filter in your car yourself:

1. Park your car on a flat surface, allow the engine to cool completely and pop the hood.
2. Locate the air filter case. The air filter is typically located in a black box or case about the size of a loaf of bread toward the top of the engine. If you can't find the air filter case, consult your owner's manual.
3. Next, you will need to open the air filter case to access the air filter. The top is usually held on the case with metal clips. Slide a butter knife between the clip and the case to pop the clips upward and off the case. If there aren't clips, the lid may be held in place by screws. Use the correct type of screwdriver to remove the screws and lift the lid away.
4. Once the lid is lifted away, simply lift the air filter upward to remove it and slide the new one in. Once it is slid inward, place the lid back on the case and secure it. Lastly, close the hood of your car.

Your car air filter helps to protect your engine. As such, it is important to replace it as recommended to keep your engine running well. If you don't feel comfortable replacing it yourself, an auto repair shop can replace the filter for you during an oil change or routine maintenance services. If your car was running rough because the filter was dirty, and replacing it doesn't solve the problem, you may have waited too long, and the engine may need to be professionally cleaned. An auto repair service can diagnose the problem and fix it.

If you think your air filter needs to be replaced or your car is acting up, click here to find out more.