Air filter is a filter that removes dust from the air that passes through it. In fact, it removes not only dust but it could also lessen the presence of contaminants, mold, pollen and bacteria in the air. In any place that needs quality air such as in engines, an air filter must be utilized.
How do you check your car's air filter?
The air filter can be found if you unscrew your car's air cleaner and the other devices within it. Most of them are round in shape although some come in a rectangular shape under the hood. In vehicles, there can be two types of air filter. It could either be permanent or pleated-paper filters. Permanent ones are those you can find in older vehicles. Pleated-paper filters are the ones you see in most of the recent vehicles.
How do you know if the air filter is to be cleaned or replaced?
For vehicles with permanent air filters, you may clean it yourself. Just follow the manual's instructions that come with your car. However for vehicles with pleated-paper filters, you will have to replace them.
When do you change your air filter?
If you have been using your car for a year or have traveled 15,000 miles since you last changed it, then it's time to change your air filter. If you often drive in a dirty or dusty city or area, you would have to change your air filter as often as you can. To check if you need to change your air filter, simply use a flashlight to shine from it's inside out. If it's only letting a little amount of light go through it then it's high time to change your air filter.
How do you change your air filter?
If your car is an older model, detach first the wing nut as well as the other clips holding it. Then, remove the old filter and put the new one. However, ensure that your new air filter has the right size. Next, replace the breather element which is the one that comes with a plastic holder that passes through the filter housing. By pulling the clip off, you may replace the breather element and simply place the clip on as well as the cover for the air filter. For newer car models, air filters are rectangular in shape located under the hood. It's usually found over the area where the radiator is. Just follow those same steps for older cars except that newer cars don't come with a breather filter.
