An engine air filter keeps dust, particles, and contaminants out of the engine as it runs. An excessively dirty or clogged filter isn’t good for the engine and can lead to major issues down the road. Even though an engine air filter plays such an important role in proper engine function, it is easily overlooked. However, filters are easily replaced and inexpensive. Here are four signs that you should change your engine air filter.
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Check Engine Light
Any time the check engine light comes on, many drivers panic and assume there’s a major, costly problem. The issue frequently requires a simple fix, like a new engine air filter. When you see this indicator light, pop the hood and locate the air filter. In newer cars, it looks like a box with clips or fasteners that can be unhooked or unscrewed to gain access. Open the box, find the filter, and pull it out.
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Visible Dirt
If you run your hand across the filter and your hand ends up dirty, it’s time for a new one. A small amount of dust can be knocked off by hitting the back of the filter. The more dirt and dust you can see on the filter, the less air can pass through to the engine. The purpose of the filter is to keep the things it catches from getting into the engine, so it’s good that it’s dirty because it means it’s working, but it also needs to let air through.
A clean air filter is white or light yellow, so as it catches dirt and dust over time, it will become darker. It if looks dark and brown or gray, it probably needs to be changed. Be sure to check your filter in good lighting.
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Decreased Horsepower
A problem with decreased horsepower could be as simple as a clogged engine air filter. If air isn’t flowing through the engine, it can’t perform well. If you feel like the vehicle is having trouble accelerating well or it’s jerking when you step on the gas, you might just need to give it a clean filter for more air. If the filter is in bad enough shape to affect the performance of your car, you shouldn’t let it go unchecked much longer. Don’t miss out on an enjoyable drive when you can easily fix the problem.
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Fuel Efficiency Loss
An efficient engine is a clean and well-maintained engine. If any parts of the engine system aren’t doing their job, it won’t run efficiently. When an engine isn’t getting the oxygen it needs to run, it will consume more fuel to compensate. Fuel is also wasted due to a lack of airflow. The excess fuel that couldn’t burn without the necessary oxygen travels out the exhaust system and you might notice a gasoline smell when you start the engine.
If you think you need a new air filter, head to Flood Mazda’s service department for quick and easy service. Take some time to browse their selection of new Mazda models during your visit. You might even want to take a test drive or two.
Image by Jarkko Mänty from Pixabay
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