When it comes to keeping your car running smoothly, most drivers think about oil changes, brakes, or tyres—but engine air filters often get overlooked. Yet, they play a crucial role in your car’s performance, fuel efficiency, and engine health. So, how often should you replace them? Let’s break it down in simple terms.
Why Engine Air Filters Matter
Think of your engine like your lungs. Just as you need clean air to breathe, your car needs clean air to run efficiently. The engine air filter stops dust, dirt, pollen, and other particles from entering the engine. A clogged or dirty filter can:
- Reduce fuel efficiency
- Cause sluggish acceleration
- Increase engine wear over time
Ignoring your air filter can lead to bigger problems—and bigger repair bills—down the track.
Standard Replacement Intervals
Most car manufacturers recommend replacing the engine air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 kilometres or about once a year, whichever comes first. But this isn’t a hard-and-fast rule—it depends on your driving conditions.
Factors That Affect Filter Life
- Dusty or rural roads: Driving in areas with a lot of dirt or construction dust can clog your filter faster. Check it every 6,000–8,000 km in these conditions.
- City driving: Stop-start traffic is easier on filters, so you might stretch it to 15,000 km.
- Weather conditions: Heavy pollen seasons or coastal salt air can reduce filter efficiency faster.
Signs Your Air Filter Needs Replacing
Sometimes you don’t have to wait for the kilometre mark—your car will tell you it’s time. Watch out for:
- Reduced fuel efficiency
- Engine misfires or rough idling
- Strange engine sounds, like coughing or popping
- Black smoke from the exhaust
If you notice any of these, check your filter straight away.
DIY or Professional Replacement?
Replacing an engine air filter is often simple and inexpensive. Many filters are easy to access under the bonnet, and you can swap them out yourself in just a few minutes.
But if you’re unsure, a mechanic can check the filter during regular servicing and replace it for you. The cost is usually low—well worth it compared to potential engine issues caused by neglect.
Real-World Example from Melbourne
A client brought in a 2012 Ford Falcon that had been struggling with fuel efficiency. A quick inspection revealed the engine air filter was clogged with over a year’s worth of dust and debris. After replacing it, the car ran smoother, acceleration improved, and fuel consumption dropped noticeably. Just a small, inexpensive part made a big difference.
Keeping Your Car Healthy
Regularly checking and replacing your engine air filter is one of the easiest ways to protect your vehicle. Small maintenance steps like this save fuel, prevent engine wear, and help keep your car running reliably—whether you’re driving daily or planning to sell it down the line.
If you are in Thomastown, and looking to sell your car, this is the best way to find us.
Northern Car Removal
1/26 Acacia St, Glenroy VIC 3046
0437 773 905
Recent Comments