Air Filters

How to Choose the Right Engine Air Filter

In modern automobiles, the air must be filtered before it enters the engine cylinders to prevent abrasive particles from causing mechanical damage. The engine air filter takes care of this task. Without air filters, engines will be strained and damaged by foreign particles.

But air filters, just like everything else, can't withstand harsh environmental conditions. Eventually, they need to be replaced to keep your car in peak condition. Poor gas mileage and ineffective emissions control system are some of the symptoms of worn air filters. If you want to buy a new filter, there are some things to remember so that you will not regret your purchase.

Which type of air filter is best for my car?

There are different types of air filters to help improve your car's performance. Listed below are the different types that you can choose from if you're looking for a new air filter.

1. Paper: Because they are cost-efficient and effective, paper filters are commonly used in factory automobile assemblies. They are made from industrial-grade paper and folded like an accordion to trap dust and debris. Though paper filters are cheap, they need to be replaced often to avoid engine problems.
2. Foam: Made from polyurethane foam soaked in oil, foam filters are frequently used by off-road drivers because of their excellent filtering capacity. Although foam filters are thick and reusable, they disintegrate over time and clog engines.
3. Cotton: Oil-wetted cotton gauze is used in high-performance filters for race cars because it increases an engine's air intake. But because cotton filters are considered high-performance upgrades, they are expensive.

Which brand of air filter should I buy?

Because air filters are important engine components, many car parts manufacturers produce filters. In fact, because there are too many brands, air filters can range from $20 to $399. But, price is proportional to quality, so choose a brand known for its high quality and affordability.

Which is better: OEM or aftermarket air filter?

If you want to buy a new air filter, you can choose between original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or aftermarket air filters. OEM filters are usually more expensive, while aftermarket ones come with a number of brands and options. But just because OEM filters are expensive doesn't mean they are better than aftermarket filters. If you want factory-like performance, choose OEM filters. But if you want customizable performance, choose aftermarket ones.

How to Install a New Air Filter

(Note: These are general instructions for all kinds of automobiles.)

Difficulty level: Easy

Things needed:

• New air filter
• Phillips screwdriver
• Clean cloth

Safety reminder: Wear protective gear while working on your automobile.

Step 1: Lift the hood of your vehicle to be able to locate the air filter housing.

Step 2: Take the mounting screws out of the filter housing cover using a Phillips screwdriver. Free the housing cover from clips or clamps that are used to keep it closed.

Step 3: Open the cover of the filter housing and take out your old air filter. But, take note of how your old air filter is positioned before removing it to be able to place the new one properly.

Step 4: Wipe the housing with a clean cloth.

Step 5: Place your new air filter on the housing.

Step 6: Put the mounting screws back on the filter housing cover and secure it with clips or clamps.

Step 7: Inspect the air intake and vacuum hoses to see if there are cracks in them. Check the hose connections to the filter housing to be sure that they are secure.

Helpful tips:

• Automobile air filters usually need to be replaced every year or every 12,000 miles that your vehicle travels. So, after you install your new air filter, take note of the date and the odometer reading of your car. Once 12 months or 12,000 miles have passed, it's time to put a new one again.

Step 8: Get a flashlight and point its beam towards a dirty air filter. If there is hardly any light that penetrates through the filter, you should probably get a new one to take its place.

Step 9: Your car's fuel consumption can increase and its performance can suffer if you don't replace an old air filter.