When is the right time to change your car’s air filters? Here are some clear signs that your air filter needs to be replaced! A vehicle’s air filter is one of its most vital parts. It ensures that your car’s engine gets enough oxygen-rich air that it needs for proper combustion and filters out all particles, dust, and debris that can damage the intricate inner workings of your engine. This is why you must replace your air filter on time so that your car stays in top shape. Usually, the air filter needs to be replaced every 20,000-25,000 kilometers. However, make sure to consult your owner’s manual to see when you should replace the air filter of your car. You can also look for certain signs that might indicate that your air filter needs to be replaced. Here are some signs of a dirty air filter: Poor Fuel Economy A car engine needs good airflow to work properly and efficiently. However, if the air filter is dirty or clogged, then air will have some trouble getting through to the engine and your car will start using up more fuel. This might be minor at first, however, if you don’t change the air filters, then you might notice a reduction of 10% in your overall fuel economy. So, if you’ve noticed the need to fill up your gas tank a little more than usual, then make sure to get your filters checked. Ignition Problems Even though a dirty engine filter won’t stop your car from starting up, it will cause some trouble in igniting the engine. So, if you have to turn the key a few times to start your car or if it turns over a bit sluggishly, then you might need to get your filter replaced. This happened because the dirty air filter prevents the proper air mixture from reaching your vehicle’s spark plugs. This prevents the plugs from sparking properly, which leads to improper ignition of the fuel. Slowed Acceleration Slowed acceleration is another common sign of a dirty air filter. If your car isn’t responding the way it normally does when you press down on the accelerator or feels a bit jerky, then you probably need to invest in a new air filter. A Smell of Gasoline Upon Ignition When enough oxygen doesn’t enter the fuel system of your car, its carburetor or the fuel injection system might send unburnt fuel through the exhaust system. This unburnt fuel will usually exit via the exhaust pipe of your car and you’ll smell a hint of gasoline. So, the next time you ignite the engine of your car and smell unburned fuel, then make sure to inspect your air filter. Gray and Dirty Air Filter The best way to check if your filter is dirty or not is to take a look at it. Air filters are usually located near the car’s engine in a snap-off plastic container. A large hose leads from the filter to the engine block. If you can’t spot the filter, then consult the manual of the car to find its location. Once you spot the filter, take off the housing, and examine the filter. It should be bright and clean. However, if your air filter is gray or black and has a lot of debris and dust stuck to it, then it needs to be replaced. Make sure to check for the aforementioned signs to see if you need to replace your car’s air filters or not. If you want to get your vehicle’s air filters replaced, then get in touch with us today!