How to Replace Your Car’s Air Filter

What is an air filter?
The air filter is part of your vehicle’s intake system; its purpose is to filter out foreign particles from the air so that they don’t enter the system, which could possibly damage the engine.

Why should you change your air filter?
Your engine needs an exact ratio of air and fuel to run. Dirty air filters can choke an engine which will decrease gas mileage and cause fuel deposits to form from a too rich fuel mixture.

How often should I change my air filter?
There is no definite answer to this, but it is suggested that the average driver should check their filter about every 12,000 miles. If you live in a heavily polluted area or frequently drive on dirt/gravel roads, then your air filter will need to be replaced more frequently and you should probably check it about every 5,000 miles.

How do I know if my air filter needs to be changed?

Checking your air filter is simple (see below for removal). After you remove the filter hold it up to the light – If you can see light coming through, then your air filter does not need to be replaced. If no light is penetrating through then lightly drop the filter on the ground a couple of times to loosen up the dirt. If you still can’t see through then you should change your filter.

Did you know… A slightly dirty filter actually cleans more efficiently than a brand new filter. That’s because the debris trapped by the filter element helps screen out smaller particles that try to get through.

Where can I buy an air filter?
A local supply auto store can help you determine which air filter that you need specific to your vehicle. Filters generally cost about $25-$40.

How do I change my air filter?
Changing your own air filter is not only easy, but you will save money by changing it yourself.

(source: http://www.videojug.com/film/how-to-change-your-air-filter)

You Will Need:
1 new air filter
1 flat screwdriver
1 Phillips screwdriver
1 compressor air valve w/hose

Step 1: Secure the vehicle
Park the car on level ground, apply the parking brake, shift into first gear, and turn off the ignition.

Step 2: Open the bonnet

Step 3: Locate the air filter unit
The air filter unit is usually situated on top of the engine. On older cars with carburettors the filter is usually under a bulky, round cover made of plastic or metal; fuel-injected cars tend to have a square or rectangular air filter housing can be found slightly off centre between the front grill and the engine.

Step 4: Remove the air filter cover
Loosen the hose clamp that seals the air conduct. Undo all the screws holding the air filter cover. Some models have wing nuts, other air filters are just clamped on with a quick release system. Keep screws and other parts in a safe location so you can find them later. Pull the cover out of the air conduct and lift it up so it comes off the lower part of the housing. Consult a mechanic if you don’t know how to lift the cover.

Step 5: Take out the air filter
Now you can see a round or rectangular filter made of cotton, paper or gauze.
In 4x 4 vehicles the more complex filter is usually a double unit consisting of both an oil soaked and a dry filter element. Filters have a rubber rim that seals off the unit’s interior. Simply lift the filter out of the housing.

Step 6: Clean the air filter housing
Seal the air conduct with adhesive tape. It only takes a minute and that way you won’t get any dirt into the engine whilst cleaning. Connect the air hose to the compressor and use the compressed air to blow out the dust. Alternatively use a vacuum cleaner to suck up any dirt.

TOP TIP
You can clean the old filter as long as the material isn’t torn, cracked or oil stained. Use a light to check if it is oily inside. Hold a lamp behind it and see if the light gets blocked out by oil. Proceed if the light can be seen. Now blow out the dust with compressed air if you have it, or else vacuum it up. Turn the air filter around so you are cleaning both sides .
You can put the filter back in this time. Buy yourself a new filter soon and change at the next check

Step 7: Replace the filter
Replace the old filter with a new one. Simply insert it into the housing with the rubber rim facing up. Make sure the edges are sealed by the rubber rim.

Step 8: Replace the cover
Carefully insert the cover back into the air conduct and then press the entire piece down onto the lower half of the air filter unit. Make sure it’s not askew as this would alter engine performance levels. Tighten all the screws or clamps and finally check that you have put everything firmly back together by slightly rocking the unit with both hands. Make sure the bonnet is properly shut. Perform this check regularly and you keep your car breathing at maximum efficiency by keeping the dust out.

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