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Air Filter Replacement: Simple and Easy

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Change Your Air Filter: Why and How

Everyone thinks about the oil and oil filter, but often the air filter gets overlooked, so we’d like to take the time to talk about the importance of changing your air filter.

Why change the air filter?

Changing the air filter on your car or truck will greatly prolong the life of your vehicle.

A blocked air filter can negatively impact your car’s performance and engine life.

Your engine needs a proper mixture of air and fuel, and a dirty, clogged-up air filter will keep your engine from getting the amount of air it needs. Imagine trying to breathe with a sheet over your mouth, that’s essentially what your engine feels like when the air filter is dirty.

This lack of air can cause major damage to many parts of your engine, including the spark plugs.

Changing the air filter can also increase your fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, causing your engine to operate at less-than-best output. This can also result in a loss of horsepower and acceleration.

How often?

Changing the air filter is usually recommended every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. It is important to consult your owner’s manual for the specifics of your exact vehicle. Also, if you do a lot of driving on gravel or dusty roads, you should change your air filter more frequently, because your air filter is continually taking in more particles.

How to change the air filter?

Changing the air filter is one of the easiest and most cost-effective practices in regular car maintenance.

First of all, every car is different, so if you’re not completely sure about your car’s air filter either check the specifics on your manual or consult a mechanic for advice. Underneath the hood is a large air tube; you should see a few clips surrounding a chamber that contains the air filter.

Unclip the chamber and pull out the air filter. Check the filter for dirt and grime; if you see a large amount of dirt, or if the paper is dirty and discolored, it probably needs to be replaced.

Used Car Parts in Cedar Rapids

Air filters can come in different shapes and sizes depending on your vehicle

On an older car or truck, the air filter may be contained in a circular chamber directly above the engine. Simply unscrew the wing-nut and pull the top off. You should see the doughnut shaped air filter.

An employee at an auto parts shop will be able to help you find the right air filter for your car, and installing the filter is just as easy as taking it out. The biggest issue is to make sure the air filter is put in right-side-up. Most of the time, however, the filter won’t fit upside-down.

Reattach the clips(or the wing-nut) and everything and you’re good-to-go!

Remember- this article is simply a brief summary to get you started. Every car is different and if you’re not experienced in auto maintenance, it doesn’t hurt to consult a mechanic or auto parts expert to help you get started.

If you want a little assistance with your maintenance, call us at 888-406-6073 and we’ll be happy to help!


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