Air; perhaps the most essential element for all living things, is even one of the most important components for your vehicle to run (if it uses a combustion engine of course). The troubling thing with air of course, is that it can be quite dirty; contaminated with dust, debris and the like. So when air is needed for something to run, like a person or perhaps an engine, it is super important it is kept clean.
Enter the air filter. The engine air filter to be exact. Not to be confused for the purposes of this article with the cabin air filter (for which you can find more information about in our blog on cabin air filters).
The engine air filter resides in the air-intake system (for obvious reasons) to catch all the little bits before they can cause damage to the engine should they travel with the air that far. It is typically made of paper but can be made of cotton or other materials.
Because its purpose is to keep the dirt and debris from entering your engine with the air, it will itself become dirty, thus reducing the flow of air that is so important for your engine to function properly. To simplify: clean filter captures the dirt, there will be clean air in your engine = good; filter becomes clogged with all that dirt, it will restrict the airflow to your engine = bad.
Of course, the obvious answer is that you should change your engine air filter as soon as (or just before) it is dirty enough that it is restricting the airflow to the engine and thus reducing your acceleration as well as impacting your fuel economy. When this occurs can depend on a number of factors that all ultimately circle around the quality of the air and amount of dust/debris where you drive most frequently. Most automakers recommend replacing your engine air filter every two years - however, the best way to know when you should change your filter is to check it. At least once a year and at most, during regular oil change maintenance, your filter should be looked at to see if it is ready to be replaced.
Typically, engine air filters cost between $20 to upwards of $100. If you are paying for a mechanic to change the filter for you, this can cost an additional fee based on their hourly rate. If your vehicle is in for regularly scheduled maintenance, you may not be charged extra labour costs (only the cost for the part). For an exact quote based on your vehicle and filter, reach out to one of your trusted CarHub Service Advisors.
The short (and safest) answer is that the best engine air filter for your vehicle is the one it came with originally - this filter was made specifically for this car and any of the manufacturer recommendations (for instance length of time for replacement) would be based on this OEM part.
The next best option is a filter from a reputable parts maker, specifically made for your vehicle. While not the OEM part, many part manufacturers will specially design engine air filters for specific vehicles. This will ensure they fit properly, not allowing unfiltered air to be pulled into the engine.
It is best to avoid generic engine air filters made to fit a variety of vehicles as these increase the risk of improper size/seal.
If you are looking for an aftermarket air filter and want more information from a reputable researcher, see this Best Reviews article where the K&N washable filter and EPAuto extra guard rigid panel came out on top.
If you are looking to replace your Jeep/Dodge/RAM/Chrysler/Fiat engine air filter with a filter specifically designed for your vehicle, reach out to one of your trusted CarHub Service Advisors.
If you would like to change the engine air filter yourself, your best bet is to consult your owners manual for specific instructions. Here is a general summary for most vehicles:
Always remember that we are here to help with all your car maintenance tips and needs - check out more Service & Maintenance Tips here or reach out to one of our trusted Service Advisors here.
Your vehicle’s engine air filter is responsible for removing dust and contaminants from the air that gets pulled into the engine. When it gets old, a clogged air filter won’t be able to do its job properly, and your engine performance could suffer, or you could end up with other issues like reduced fuel efficiency. For the most part, you should replace your vehicle’s air filter once every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. This will ensure that you don’t end up with problems and that your engine can stay in good shape for as long as possible.
As a car owner, while it is important to change your filter regularly to keep your engine running smoothly, it’s also essential if you don’t want to void your vehicle’s factory warranty. Many factory warranties explicitly require you to stay on top of regular maintenance, including air filter changes, spark plug replacements, and oil changes. You also want to be sure that when you change the filter, you are keeping in compliance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Knowing how to replace engine air filters without risking your warranty will help you make the right choices and keep your vehicle in great shape for a long time.
When you buy a new car, it will be covered by a factory warranty provided by the manufacturer. This warranty is usually good for anywhere between three years or 36,000 miles and five years or 60,000 miles. During this time period, if an issue arises with your vehicle through no fault of your own, you can take it to the dealership to have it repaired under your warranty coverage.
There are, however, almost always going to be requirements to keep your vehicle covered. While they may not specifically include air filter changes, they might require regularly scheduled maintenance. If you don’t want to void your vehicle’s factory warranty, it is a good idea to change your air filters on schedule and do it properly.
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It is incredibly important that you choose the right replacement air filter for your vehicle at the auto parts store if you want to keep your factory warranty coverage active. While there are plenty of aftermarket automotive options available to you when it comes to engine air filters, it will always be best to make sure you are using an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) component.
OEM air filters will be the same brand and model that came with your vehicle and are your best bet when it comes to keeping your warranty valid. Plus, you can be sure that they are compatible with your vehicle and will offer the same level of protection for your engine, which is essential.
Replacing a car engine air filter is a relatively simple job that should only take a few minutes.
If you want to be certain that your new air filter is put in properly and that the right tools and materials are used, it is always best to have the job done by a professional mechanic. A professional can consult your factory warranty and your owner’s manual and will make sure that everything is done correctly so your warranty stays valid.
If possible, take your car to the dealership’s service center and have them replace the filter per your service manual. This is the best way to get peace of mind that your warranty is not being voided and that you are getting the best service possible for your engine air filter replacement.
The other benefit of having your filter replaced by a professional shop is that you can get the proper documentation. When you take your vehicle in for an auto repair that should be covered by your factory warranty, the dealership may want to see proof that you have kept up with the scheduled maintenance.
While you can keep your own documentation when you do car maintenance yourself, your odds of having your warranty claim approved by the manufacturer are much higher if you have an invoice for maintenance procedures by a professional mechanic. It is even better to have it all documented at the dealership, which makes the dealer shop a great choice for your maintenance needs, at least while your factory warranty is still valid.
Once your factory warranty is up, you will be financially responsible for any automotive repairs that have to be done on your vehicle, whether they are a result of a factory flaw or not. If you want to make sure that you are still covered, an extended car warranty, which is more accurately called a vehicle service contract (VSC) or auto protection plan, is a great option. Third-party extended warranties can offer excellent coverage that will help you keep your car running smoothly for a long time and give you the help you need when the time comes to get a repair done.
By keeping up with your air filter replacements, you can keep your auto protection plan valid and increase your odds of getting claims approved. Keeping clean air filters in your vehicle is a low-cost way to keep your engine running smoothly and prevent any issues.
If you have a cap on your extended warranty coverage, this frees up money for other repairs that may be more pressing. Regularly changing the air filter will also help you get the repair you need by showing that you are staying on top of maintenance, which may be a requirement for your VSC coverage.
One of the biggest mistakes to avoid when changing out engine air filters is using the wrong type. While there are all kinds of air filter brands and models to choose from, not all of them will be approved by your warranty provider, whether it is a third-party company or the manufacturer. By only using OEM equipment when you replace components, you can be sure that your coverage will remain valid and that you can get the help you need when the time comes.
You should also be sure that the filter is put in correctly when replacing an old one in the housing. If the filter is not airtight, it could let in dirt, road debris, and dust. This will quickly cause issues with your engine and may even void your warranty. Because of how important proper installation is, it is almost always a better idea to have it done by a professional instead of doing it yourself.
Changing out an air filter is a simple, fairly inexpensive job that can increase the longevity of your engine and keep your warranty valid. By knowing what to watch out for and learning basic car care, you can protect your vehicle and your warranty coverage. Whether your factory warranty is still running or you have an extended plan, it is always a good idea to do every maintenance procedure correctly and comply with your warranty’s requirements.
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