How often have you needed to change your air filters? Is it something you remember to do regularly, or do you put it off until it’s absolutely necessary? Believe it or not, the best time to change your air filters is during the summer – here’s why! Keep reading to find out more.
What Are Car Filters?
These are special paper-based membranes whose job is to sieve out the dust, debris & bugs from the air channeled into the car via the engine & HVAC air intake valves. Clogged or dirty air filters can cause all sorts of problems, from poor AC performance to an overheating engine, including decreased fuel economy and increased emissions.
How Often Should They Be Replaced?
It’s preferred that you change your car’s air filters every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, the number can vary depending on your mileage, driving habits, and vehicle type.
Why Should They Be Replaced More Often During The Summers?
The warmer weather and increased pollen levels during summer mean that your engine & cabin air filters will get dirty much faster. The hot and humid conditions also mean your engine and the air filters must work overtime.
A dysfunctional engine air filter can hamper your car’s performance and can eventually cause engine failure. If you don’t replace the air filter often enough, it will eventually get clogged and start to restrict airflow. That results in the engine having to work with a limited amount of air. That ends with poor fuel economy & higher carbon emissions. It also means that the engine becomes prone to overheating excessively!
How to Take Care Of The Air Filters? –
- Check and change your car’s air filters at least twice a year, and more often if you live in a dusty region or frequently drive on dirt roads.
- If you notice that your car’s engine is running hot or the fuel economy has decreased, it could be time to change the air filter.
- Inspect the air filter regularly to see how dirty it is. If it looks clean, then there’s no need to change it.
- When changing your air filter, choose your car’s correct air filter type. You can usually find guidelines in the owner’s manual.
- The cabin & engine filters should not be mixed.
Signs A Car Needs An Air Filter Change –
While summer is the ideal time for air filter replacement, watch out for the following indicators that need your immediate attention. A dirty air filter can build up to a number of problems, including, but not limited to:
- reduced fuel economy
- decreased engine power
- increased emissions
- poor AC performance
- popping sound from the engine bay
If you notice any of these problems, it’s time to change your air filter.
While many folks may think that changing their air filters is a job for the colder months, it’s actually best to do it in the summer. By changing your air filters now, you can improve your car’s performance and avoid some costly repairs down the road.
Schedule a service appointment with Infiniti of Melbourne, serving Merritt Island, FL, today, and let us help you keep your car running smoothly all summer!
Connect with us
