Dirty Air Filter
The best way to know if the air filter needs replacement is via visual inspection. Locate the air filter housing (typically a rectangular box near the engine), open it, and look at it. The filter material should be almost white. If it's dirty, clogged, or covered in debris, it's time to replace it.
A Dirty or Discolored Filter
A clean air filter is usually white or tan. Over time when dirt and grime accumulate on it, it turns dark brown or black. Always check your filter in a well-lit area. If your filter is dirtier than usual, it's time to replace it.
A filter that is clogged with dirt is an obvious sign of a dirty air filter. Performing a visual inspection is an easy way to know if your air filter needs to be changed. A brand new air filter is white or off-white in color, while a dirty air filter will appear darker with the dirt and debris visible.
Cleaning the air filter not only does not improve, but also deteriorates its filtration properties. Only periodical replacement of the filter with a new one can provide efficient filtration of the air entering directly into the combustion chamber of the engine.
Find the air filter, which is usually in a plastic box that has a hose running out of it. Unfastened the metal clips on the sides of the box and open it. Remove the air filter and examine its condition. If debris is falling out or the filter looks faded, it's best to swap it out for a new one.
The less permeable an air filter is, the less air can move through it, and the less air an engine gets, the less power it has. Yes, a dirty filter can clean better, but a dirty filter also decreases horsepower.” Horsepower reduction due to restricted air filters is initially subtle but can become significant.
Your engine does not work well with contaminated air. The engine does not put out enough power or performance when it is dirty. If your car jerks when you try to accelerate, it may not be getting enough oxygen. The horsepower in your vehicle is dependent entirely on the amount of oxygen the engine receives.
Neglecting your air filter can lead to several issues. Over time, it can cause reduced fuel efficiency, diminished horsepower, and even engine damage. Keeping up with this small maintenance task can save you from more significant, expensive problems.
A dirty air filter can cause your vehicle to throw a Check Engine code. During this instance, the Check Engine Light of your vehicle will turn on. The light turns on because your vehicle is sensing that its engine isn't receiving enough air.
Your vehicle's engine may begin to make strange sounds, aside from the sounds that are caused by misfiring. These may be wheezing sounds or coughing sounds. These sounds are caused by an engine air filter that is clogged and is not letting enough air into the vehicle's engine.
Most engine air filters will cost between $20 to $85, depending on the year, make, and model of your vehicle, and whether you do it yourself or take your vehicle to the dealer or a mechanic.
Checking the Air Filter
Identify the fasteners holding the box together and remove them. These may be a variety of clips, screws, or hex nuts. Once you have removed the top of the air intake box, you should see the air filter. Remove it and visually inspect it to see if it needs to be replaced.
If you remove your oil pan, you can take a flashlight and peer inside your oil pan. A vehicle with a healthy lubricating system will have oil pan walls and parts that, even though they're covered in oil, still appear metallic and silver. Any engine sludge will change the appearance and hide the metal.
A clean air filter is off-white in color and will have no dirt or debris caught in its folds. A dirty air filter, on the other hand, will appear gray or brown in color and you'll likely be able to see dirt trapped between the layers of fabric. This dirt is getting in the way of the flow of oxygen to the engine.
As mentioned above, most engine air filters will need to be replaced around every 30,000-45,000 miles, but you'll want to consult your owner's manual for a more exact number as different vehicles have different engine air filters.
If your engine starts making strange noises, especially during idle, that's another sign that your air filter needs checking. An unhealthy air filter can cause your engine to sputter or make popping noises.