How Does an Air Filter Work?

Air filters can make a huge difference in the life and the performance of an engine. It is an essential component of the air intake system and is tasked with trapping any dirt or debris in the air entering the intake system. It is important that dirt is not allowed to enter the engine as it can cause a great deal of damage or even kill your power plant. An air filter is made of cotton, paper, or gauze. This material must trap dirt and still allow air to pass through. Air filters do not trap 100% of dirt particles but around 99% of particles are normally filtered out. New filters generally keep out less dirt than older filters. The new filter must first build up a dust film which makes the holes in the filter smaller and allows it to trap more dirt.

When too much dirt builds up in the air filter, the air flow into the engine will suffer and it will need to be replaced. Not changing the air filter can reduce the engine's performance and decrease the MPG of the vehicle. You can replace your air filter with a direct paper replacement or you can upgrade to a performance air filter.
K&N Filters

K&N filters are some of the most popular performance air filters on the market today. The filter's media is made of cotton and gauze, and sandwiched by aluminum wire screens. They allow for more air flow while still providing excellent filtration. Increasing the flow of air into your engine will increase horsepower and acceleration since your engine will be operating more efficiently.

K&N filters are washable and reusable. They usually cost around $45-55 for most vehicles and can go up to 50,000 miles before they need cleaning. Stock paper air filters need to changed about every 8000 miles and cost around $15-20. Consider the money you can save over the course of 100,000 miles. The environment will thank you for using a reusable air filter as you can prevent used paper air filters from piling up in land fills. K&N filters come with a one million mile warranty so they are sure to last the life of your vehicle.