How Do I Choose An Air Filter For My Car?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Simply visit knfilters.com and enter your vehicle year, make, and model to find the right air filter for you. Alternately, you can search by VIN for fast, accurate results. KNFilters.com also offers live chat for fast, real-time help in finding your just-right air filter, intake system, oil filters, and more.

Does it matter what air filter you use?

The short answer is, no, they’re not all the same . In fact, there are many different types of air filters available and choosing the right one can make a real difference in the lifespan of your HVAC system. ... All filters are rated using the MERV scale.

Does it matter what air filter you use for your car?

The ability of your air filter to remove harmful dirt, debris and foreign matter from your engine’s air intake is directly attributed to the long life of your engine . ... So it makes sense that purchasing a higher quality air filter is a major contributor to higher engine efficiency and longer engine life.

Are all air filters for cars the same?

Just like air filters, different vehicles use different cabin air filters . You need to make sure you pick the proper one for your vehicle. You can look up the correct filter for your vehicle using the Premium Guard Filter Look-Up tool.

Can I use any air filter for my car?

There is not a generic air filter that fits all cars . If you drive a Chevrolet Tahoe, you need to get the filter that matches your model and engine combination. When properly installed it only allows filtered air through to the engine.

How long can car air filter last?

Check your owner’s manual; it should tell you when your air filter should be replaced. This is generally every 12,000 to 15,000 miles , depending on your vehicle. If you have driven more than that since the last time you replaced the air filter, it’s probably time to get it changed.

Is K&N air filter good for your car?

K&N air filters use an oiled cotton filter medium . K&N claims that not only do their filters allow freer airflow when clean, but they can absorb dirt without getting as restricted as paper filters. ... K&N says their filter will last the lifetime of the vehicle and covers their filters with a 10 year/million mile warranty.

Do I really need to change my air filter?

It’s generally recommended that you change your vehicle’s air filters every 12,000 to 15,000 miles . However, if you drive in an area with heavier pollution, you may want to change them more frequently.

Is there a difference between air filter and cabin air filter?

The Cabin Air Filter filters the air inside of your car. ... The Engine Air Filter keeps the air going to your engine cleaner.

How often should you replace your car air filter?

Check your owner’s manual; it should tell you when your air filter should be replaced. This is generally every 12,000 to 15,000 miles , depending on your vehicle. If you have driven more than that since the last time you replaced the air filter, it’s probably time to get it changed.

What happens if you don’t change cabin air filter?

If you don’t change your cabin air filter, the filter will become more clogged with dirt and debris and the efficiency of the filter and your car’s HVAC system will be compromised . The air volume into your passenger compartment will be continually reduced which will lead to the issue of foul odors inside your car.

Can you drive without a cabin air filter?

You should not run without the cabin air filter . Not only does it prevent all those particles from being breathed in by you and your passengers, but it also prevents particles from getting into and damaging the fan and ducting mechanisms in your HVAC system.

What will happen to your car engine if you use wrong air filter?

When the air filter gets too dirty, it will get clogged and the engine won’t be able to suck up enough air to the combustion chamber . When this happens, the engine will use more gas and less air, which will result in poorer performance and a drop in fuel efficiency.

How do you know if your car needs a new air filter?

  1. Air Filter Looks Dirty. A new air filter will be white or an off-white color. ...
  2. Check Engine Light Turns On. ...
  3. Lower Horsepower. ...
  4. Black, Sooty Smoke Leaving the Exhaust Pipe. ...
  5. Smell of Gas When the Engine Starts.

How much does it cost to replace air filter in car?

The Average Engine Air Filter Replacement Cost Is $20 to $85 , Depending on if You Go to the Mechanic or DIY. This is one of the easiest maintenance jobs you can do yourself. Engine air filters are easily accessible under the hood and usually require no tools at all to replace.

What are the symptoms of a bad air filter?

  • Strange engine noises. ...
  • Decreased performance. ...
  • Decreased fuel economy. ...
  • Black smoke or flames in the exhaust. ...
  • Smell of petrol in the exhaust. ...
  • Air filter looks dirty. ...
  • Check engine light comes on.
Charlene Dyck
Author
Charlene Dyck
Charlene is a software developer and technology expert with a degree in computer science. She has worked for major tech companies and has a keen understanding of how computers and electronics work. Sarah is also an advocate for digital privacy and security.