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Replace Your Air Filter: A Step-By-Step Guide From Import Auto Specialists
Are you noticing your car is not performing as well as it should? One of the reasons why your car may need to be running at its optimal level is because of a dirty air filter. When your filter isn't taken care of, it can cause a rough idle, decreased acceleration, and decreased fuel efficiency. To keep your car running smoothly, you should regularly check and replace your air filter.
What's an Air Filter and Why Should You Care?
Think of your car's air filter like a bouncer at a club - its job is to let in only the good stuff and keep out the riff raff. It filters out all the dirt, dust, and other gross stuff that can mess up your engine while letting in clean air to help your engine burn fuel more efficiently.
Over time, your air filter can get clogged with all the gunk it's been filtering out.
That's why checking and replacing your air filter regularly is essential. Doing so can keep your engine running smoothly and help it last longer.
At Import Auto, we get it. We know how important it is to keep your air filter clean and your car running at its best. Our friendly technicians can look at your air filter, replace it if necessary, and give your car a once-over to make sure everything else is in good shape too. So, come on in and let us take care of your ride - we'll make sure it's ready to hit the road in no time!
Step 1: Locate Your Air Filter
The first thing you need to do is locate your car's air filter. The air filter is usually located under the hood of your car, in a black plastic box near the engine. Your car's owner's manual will provide a diagram or description of where to find it.
Step 2: Remove the Air Filter
Once you have located the air filter, remove it from its housing. Depending on the type of filter your car uses, you may need to unclip or unscrew the housing to remove the filter. Be sure to note how the filter is positioned, so you can replace it correctly.
Step 3: Inspect the Air Filter
After removing the filter from its housing, inspect it for dirt and debris. If the filter is dirty, it will need to be replaced. If it is just slightly dirty, you can clean it by gently tapping it against a hard surface to remove any loose dirt. Never use compressed air or a brush to clean your air filter, as this can damage it.
Step 4: Replace the Air Filter
If your air filter is dirty and needs to be replaced, simply purchase a new one and install it in the same position as the old one. If your air filter is still clean, reinstall it in its housing and make sure it is securely fastened.
How Often Should You Replace Your Air Filter?
Now that you know your air filter's importance, you're probably wondering how often you should replace it. Well, the truth is, it depends.
Most car manufacturers recommend replacing your air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or about once a year. However, if you drive in dusty or dirty conditions, you may need to replace it more often. You should also check your air filter every few months to see if it looks dirty or clogged - if it does, it's time to replace it.
But let's be honest - who has time to keep track of all that? A good rule of thumb is to check your air filter every time you get an oil change and replace it if necessary. That way, you can stay on top of your car's maintenance without worrying about keeping track of mileage or dates.
Visit Us For Your Air Filter Needs
Checking and replacing your air filter is a simple maintenance task that can help keep your car running smoothly. However, if you're uncomfortable doing this alone, bring your car to Import Auto, and we'll take care of it for you. Our auto mechanics are friendly, knowledgeable, ethical, ASE-certified technicians ready to help you get your car in shape when you are prepared to invest in your vehicle's long-term health. We are located at 7171 Ronson Rd Ste B, San Diego, CA 92111, and we're open Mondays through Fridays, from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Please schedule an appointment today.