As summer approaches, it’s crucial to ensure your car’s air filter is clean to prepare for the summer heat. The car air filter protects your engine from contaminants like dirt, dust, and leaves. This is why one essential task is the replacing you car air filter.
Why Change Your Car Air Filter?
In the summer, increased levels of dust, dirt and pollen can quickly clog your air filter, reducing your engine’s efficiency and potentially leading to increased fuel consumption and reduced power. A clean air filter, particularly important during the summer months when dirt, dust and pollen levels peak, ensures that your engine breathes cleaner air, boosting its efficiency and longevity.
When to Change Your Air Filter
Most manufacturers recommend changing your air filter every 19,000 to 24,000 kilometres, but this can vary based on your driving conditions. If you often drive in dusty or polluted areas, you may need to change it more frequently. A simple inspection of the filter for dirt accumulation or a decrease in fuel efficiency and unusual engine noises can indicated that your care is need for air filter replacement.
How to Change Air Filter in Car: A DIY Guide
Tools and Materials:
New car air filter
Screwdriver (if necessary)
Vacuum (for cleaning)
Our DIY Step-by-Step Guide for your car air filter replacement at home:
1. Safety First: Ensure your vehicle is parked on a flat surface and the engine is cool.
2. Locate the Air Filter Housing: This is usually a black plastic box with metal clips on the side. It can be found under the hood, often near the front or side.
3. Remove the Old Air Filter: Open the housing by releasing the latches or using a screwdriver if it’s screwed shut. Take out the old air filter and dispose of it responsibly.
4. Clean the Housing: If there’s noticeable debris inside the housing, use a vacuum to clean it out, ensuring a clean space for the new filter.
5. Install the New Air Filter: Place the new air filter in the housing. Make sure it fits snugly and the edges are properly aligned.
6. Secure the Housing: Close the housing and secure the latches or screws. Double-check to ensure everything is tight and secure.
Why More Frequent Changes in Summer?
Changing your car’s air filter more regularly during the summer months is particularly important for several reasons:
Increased Dust and Pollen: More airborne particles during summer can clog filters faster.
Higher AC Usage: Clean filters help maintain efficient airflow, crucial for optimal AC performance and reducing strain on your car’s system.
Preventing Overheating: Proper airflow helps dissipate heat effectively, crucial in summer when overheating risks increase.
Changing your car’s air filter is an easy and effective way to improve your vehicle’s performance and efficiency, especially during the summer. Regular maintenance like air filter replacement ensures your car operates smoothly, helping to avoid more serious mechanical issues down the road. As always, if you’re not sure or need help changing your car’s air filters, contact our expert auto repair team.
FAQs About Car Air Filter Replacement
1. How often should I check my car air filter?
It’s wise to inspect your air filter every oil change and replace it as needed, especially before and during summer months.
2. What are the signs that I need an air filter replacement?
Reduced engine performance, poorer fuel efficiency, and visible dirt on the filter are key indicators.
3. Can I perform an air filter replacement at home?
Yes, changing your car’s air filter is a simple DIY task that can be completed with minimal tools and basic know-how. Follow our step-by-step guide above to perform your car air filter replacement at home.
