A car air filter can make a huge difference in engine performance. It works by keeping out particles that could damage the engine and providing better air supply to the engine. This increased air supply helps to achieve better acceleration and fuel efficiency. Replacing a clogged air filter can improve acceleration, depending on the make and model of the vehicle.
So, why is it that an air filter can make such a big impact? When a dirty or damaged air filter restricts the amount of air that enters the car's engine, it causes the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Since the engine needs more than 10,000 liters of oxygen to burn each liter of fuel, it is essential not to limit this air flow. One of the advantages of a high-flow air filter is that it doesn't need to be changed as often as a normal filter. All you have to do is clean it approximately every two years. This is because they don't clog as quickly or as easily, but they offer better airflow and better filtration of the air that enters the engine.
And if your engine gets more air, then it can work better. In fact, a high-flow air filter can increase its power by 3 to 5 HP and also increase its torque. At the same time, this can increase fuel efficiency. How? In some of the more expensive units, the filter comes with a cold air intake unit. It is installed to extract air from outside the car instead of the hot air used inside the engine compartment. Returning to science class, cold air is denser and therefore burns better, which improves engine performance.
The numbers are small and you probably won't feel the extra power. Most dealers can replace the cabin air filter for you, or you can buy the right filter at an auto parts store and do it yourself. However, there is a wide range of air filters available on the market and it is important that you choose the right one for the make and model of your car. Different manufacturers recommend different intervals for replacing the cabin air filter, so it's important to consult the owner's manual. An air filter may not seem like an important component that needs to be checked and changed regularly, but it's essential for maintaining car performance.
Most manufacturers recommend a new engine air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, or roughly every three oil changes. Here's what you need to know about the difference between a cabin air filter and an engine air filter. What Fenske doesn't check is how well each aftermarket filter actually filters the air that enters the engine compared to the original unit. It is very similar to a vacuum cleaner; when you notice a decrease in power, the cause may be a dirty filter since air is literally expelled at the cost of vehicle power. Find out that on the test bench aftermarket filters produce more than OEM units; K&N filters produce most of these gains (around four horsepower and five pounds).
One problem that has been observed is that due to increased air intake, high-performance filters can expose engines to more debris and contaminants. Dirty or damaged air filters reduce airflow to engines and alter car's air-fuel balance. When performing routine maintenance on your vehicle, one of the most overlooked aspects is the air filter.
