How to Change a Car Air Filter

The air filters in cars generally play the role of separating the bad from the good in a car as well as taking and reserving whatever is beneficial to the mechanism. They ensure the engine stays free of insects and dust. Replacing or cleaning  an air filter should be done at recommended intervals to ensure free flow of air since clogged filters affect the performance of the car on different levels including reducing the car’s power. Car air filters are generally quick and inexpensive to replace. 

The first requirement when changing a car air filter involves obtaining the correct filter replacement which should be similar to the faulty one.  Consulting a store for auto parts or an owner's manual is recommended if an individual requires assistance in finding the correct part. First and foremost, the vehicle should be secured by parking it on a landing level, applying the parking brakes and shifting into the first gear for manual transmission or Park for automatic transmission before turning the ignition off. The bonnet should then be released using a lever. After moving the bonnet’s exterior, secure the bonnet with a prop rod to avoid it falling back and causing an accident. 

The unit for the air filter is commonly located atop the engine, although on older car models with carburetors, it is usually beneath a large, round covering made of metal or plastic. The cover is removed by undoing the screws and loosening the hose clamp. The screws and the replaced parts should be put together safely in a location where they can be found later. The cover should then be Pulled from the air conduit and lifted up to come off the housing’s lower part. The air filter is generally rectangular or round and is made of gauze, paper or cotton. Filters also comprise of rubber rims that seal off the interior of the unit. 

After lifting the air filter from the housing, the compressor and  air hose should be connected before blowing the dust out using compressed air, or sucking the dirt up with a vacuum cleaner. The air conduit should be sealed with adhesive tape before replacing the older filter with the new one. The rubber rim should be facing up when inserting the new air filter in the housing. The cover is replaced by simply inserting it in the air conduit before pressing the whole thing down the filter unit’s lower half. 

It is vital to make sure the cover is inserted securely and straight otherwise this can lead to an alteration of the engine performance. All the clamps or screws should be tightened, but before shutting the bonnets, the bonnet should be rocked gently using both hands to recheck that everything is firmly back and replaced. The filter should be regularly checked to keep the car breathing efficiently and should be changed about once every year or after 15,000 km. however, if living in dusty areas, the filter should be checked or changed after 10,000 km. if owning a car, it is vital to have knowledge on the step-by-step procedure of replacing car air filters.