Changing Your Car’s Air Filter: How and When To Do It

It is easy to overlook the engine air filter located beneath the hood, but it is critical to the life and performance of your engine. Changing the air filter in your vehicle is a simple and straightforward automotive maintenance task that typically requires no tools other than maybe a screwdriver. Follow along as we walk through the process.

What Does a Car Air Filter Do?

An air filter is constructed from treated pulp paper folded into pleats to trap harmful airborne contaminants from reaching your engine. According to automotive expert Bob Lacivita, a clean engine air filter provides better fuel economy by maintaining the optimum air-to-fuel ratio. It Improves the acceleration and performance by allowing the maximum amount of air to enter the combustion chamber. It also increases mass airflow (MAF) sensor accuracy, reduces vehicle emissions, and prolongs engine life by keeping the smallest grit out of the engine.

How Often Should You Change Your Car Air Filter

You should replace your air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, but it might need to be replaced more often depending on your driving environment. If you drive in a dusty environment often, you will want to change your air filter sooner than 12,000 miles. I live in the suburbs of the Midwest, so I like to change my air filter once a year.

Purchase a replacement engine air filter

Not all cars require the same size air filter. You can find the size your car needs in the owner’s manual or online. Most auto parts stores allow you to input your vehicle’s year, make, and model on their website or on a kiosk at the store to determine which air filter is compatible with your car.

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