Are you and your engine breathing clean, filtered air??

An important item that is often overlooked in regular vehicle maintenance is changing of the cabin air filter and theengine air filter.  These filters require periodic replacement for optimum functioning.  Both are important, but for very different reasons.  It is helpful to understand their purpose and function, and then why and when they should be replaced.

Moving vehicles create a “tunnel effect” that increases the concentration of dust and pollutants inside your car, as opposed to the outside air.  The cabin air filter is a high particulate filtration device that is attached to the outside air intake of your vehicle’s ventilation system, that will collect pollen, dust, dirt, and other particulates in the air.   It works similarly to the furnace filter in your home.  It will improve the quality of air that is circulated throughout your car, and will improve the performance of your air conditioning system as well. Clogged, dirty air filters can strain the fan/blower motor, which can lead to an expensive repair.  Cabin air filters should be replaced every 12-15,000 miles, depending on where you live and drive.  If you live on dusty, rural roads, the life of the cabin filter will be significantly shorter than on paved streets.

As always, your Owner’s Manual is a great reference to help you determine when the cabin filter should be replaced, and of course we always let you know the recommended interval at every oil change service as well.

The engine air filter cleans the incoming air of dust and dirt particles, to increase the available air to the engine.  Having adequate air flow is critical to the combustion process.  Over time as the engine air filter captures airborne contaminants such as dirt, dust and even bugs!  Less air will be available to flow to the engine, resulting in decreased fuel mileage and gradual loss of acceleration power.  Since it is a gradual change, you may not be aware of the decrease unless you track your fuel mileage.  The engine air filter should be replaced every 15-30,000 miles, again depending on conditions in which you drive (and check your Owner’s Manual for your particular manufacturer recommendations).

Keep the air inside your vehicle and into your engine clean and fresh, and keep your systems working with less stress, by changing your air filters in a timely manner.  Have your cabin and engine air filters checked in Colorado Springs soon by your favorite Honest Accurate Auto technician!  Contact us today at our East location at (719) 638-1800 or our West location at (719) 598-6306.