Changing a clogged air filter can have a significant impact on your car's performance. It can increase acceleration by 6 to 11 percent in modern fuel-injected cars, and improve fuel efficiency. This is because a dirty or damaged air filter limits the amount of air that flows into the engine, causing it to work harder and consume more fuel. To maintain the maximum possible performance of your car, it is recommended that you replace your air filters at least every 12,000 to 15,000 miles (19,000 to 24,000 km).The cabin air filter should also be changed periodically, but at a different time than the engine air cleaner.
It is best to review the maintenance schedule provided by your car manufacturer to get the proper replacement program. Be careful if every time you change the oil, the repair shop says you also need a new air filter. High-performance air filters are more technically known as high-flow air filters. They are designed to capture dirt and debris from the outside air, preventing them from reaching the combustion chamber and reducing the likelihood that you will receive a large repair bill. If you drive with a lot of traffic on a regular basis, the air filter won't last as long.
A good indication that the air filter needs to be replaced is the presence of black smoke coming from the exhaust pipes when you start the engine. For some people, adding a high-performance air filter is not a necessity, but something worth buying simply because they are interested in modifying their vehicle. However, it is important to note that high-performance air filters are considered a modification and can void your warranty if you have a new vehicle that is still within the warranty period. Replacing your engine air filter is an often overlooked maintenance item, but it can have a huge impact on your car's performance. Tests have shown that aftermarket filters produce more than OEM units, with the largest gains produced by K&N filters (around four horsepower and five pounds).
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