How to change an air filter
Changing your air filter for a new, clean one can improve the performance and increase the lifespan of your engine. We show you how
In order for an engine to function, it requires air. This air needs to be clean to ensure it runs as efficiently as possible.
To remove unwanted particles such as dirt, pollen and salt from the air that your engine will suck in to create the controlled explosion that powers your car, it incorporates a filter, designed to do just that.
An air filter is fitted to the engine’s intake manifold, working as a defence barrier to all the dirty particles. However, like most things, the air filter will gradually become less effective and will need to be changed regularly.
How will changing my air filter be beneficial?
Carrying out this simple task will do as much as increase fuel efficiency, reduce emissions and even prolong your engine’s life. An engine needs to intake a significant amount of clean air to run at its optimum level of efficiency – if you starve your engine of the air it needs, it will have to drink more fuel in order to create the big bang it requires to drive your wheels.
An engine is pretty robust, but if a filter begins to fail and allows those dirty particles to enter its complex system, it could cause serious damage to its internal parts in the long run, costing you a fortune as a result – it’s the sensible option to spend £10 on a filter today than have to spend more than a thousand on a new engine in the future.
If this isn’t enough incentive, remember that neglecting your vehicle’s air filter could result in you pumping more carbon into the atmosphere, as your emission levels gradually increase.
How often should I change my air filter?
Air filters tend to have a life span of 12 months – or 12,000 miles – depending on how regularly you drive, which is why they’re usually changed during your vehicle’s annual service. But you could actually save some pennies by carrying out this task yourself, and it shouldn’t take you very long – especially if you’re a commuter.
How do I change my air filter?
Voila! You’ve successfully changed your filter and your engine will be running like a dream again – and it will only cost you five minutes of your time.
