Your car works hard every day to get you places. Without it, your mobility may be restricted, making it difficult for you to perform your daily tasks. However, to keep your car performing at its best, regular maintenance is important and one of the most crucial yet often overlooked aspects of maintaining your car is something as simple as changing its filters.
Whether it’s the air filter, oil filter, or cabin filter, these unsung heroes work tirelessly to keep your engine running smoothly and your ride comfortable.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the why, when, and how of automotive filter changes, helping you keep your car in top shape and running like new.
Let’s get started!
Why Are Filters So Important?
At first glance, filters may seem like small, insignificant parts of your car’s overall system. But in reality, they play a crucial role in keeping your engine and cabin running efficiently.
To keep your car performing at its best, make sure to keep a regular check on the following:
Air Filter: Think of your air filter as your engine’s respiratory system. It keeps dirt, debris, and other contaminants from entering the engine, ensuring that the air intake is clean and allowing your engine to perform at its peak. A clogged air filter can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and even engine misfires.
Oil Filter: The oil filter works alongside your engine’s oil to remove contaminants and debris that can build up over time. Without a functioning oil filter, dirty oil can damage critical engine components, leading to poor performance or even catastrophic engine failure. A fresh oil filter ensures that the oil can do its job of lubricating, cooling, and protecting your engine.
Cabin Filter: While your engine might be your car’s powerhouse, the cabin filter is the unsung hero of your interior comfort. It helps to filter the air you breathe while driving, trapping pollen, dust, and other airborne particles. Replacing it regularly helps ensure that you’re breathing clean air and keeping your HVAC system working efficiently.
When Should You Change Your Filters?
Knowing when to change your filters is as important as knowing why they need to be replaced. While the exact timing can vary depending on your car’s make and model, there are general guidelines you can follow:
Air Filter: Generally, you should replace your air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, or more often if you drive in dusty conditions. If you notice a decrease in acceleration or engine performance, it could be time to check the air filter.
Oil Filter: The oil filter should be changed with every oil change, which typically occurs every 3,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on your vehicle and oil type. Always check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
Cabin Filter: Most experts recommend changing your cabin air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, but it’s worth inspecting it regularly if you notice unpleasant odors or reduced airflow from your air vents.
How to Change Your Filters: DIY or Shop?
Now that you know when it’s time to change your filters, the next question is: should you do it yourself or take it to the mechanic? Both options have their benefits, and it really depends on your comfort level with car maintenance.
DIY Filter Changes
Changing filters can be a relatively simple task for those with a bit of know-how and the right tools. However, it’s always safer to have a professional inspect the condition of your filters and replace them. Here’s a quick rundown of how you can replace the most common filters:
Air Filter: Open the air filter box, remove the old filter, and slide the new one into place. Be sure to clean any debris from the air filter compartment before installing the new filter.
Oil Filter: Changing the oil filter requires draining the old oil first. You’ll need to remove the old filter with an oil filter wrench and install the new one, making sure it’s snug but not over-tightened.
Cabin Filter: Cabin filters are often located behind the glove box or under the dashboard. Open the compartment, remove the old filter, and replace it with a new one.
If you’re unsure of any steps, don’t worry—there are tons of tutorials online to help guide you through the process. Just be sure to follow safety precautions and have the right tools on hand!
Professional Help
It’s always recommended to have a professional auto repair expert replace your car filters. Many mechanics offer filter replacement as part of routine maintenance, and they’ll ensure everything is done properly. Plus, you can ask them to check your filters during an oil change or tune-up, so you don’t have to worry about remembering when it’s time.
The Benefits of Regular Filter Maintenance
Changing your filters regularly can have a big impact on your car’s performance and longevity. Here’s how:
Improved Engine Performance: A clean air and oil filter means your engine is working with the best possible air and oil, translating to better fuel efficiency, smoother driving, and fewer breakdowns.
Better Fuel Efficiency: A clogged air filter can reduce fuel economy by making the engine work harder. Keeping your filters clean can save you money at the pump and reduce your carbon footprint.
Cleaner Air for You: With a fresh cabin filter, you’ll enjoy cleaner air inside your vehicle, free of dust, pollen, and odors. This is especially beneficial for those with allergies or respiratory issues.
Cost Savings: Preventing dirt and debris from entering your engine can help avoid costly repairs in the future. Regular filter maintenance is a small investment that can save you big bucks in the long run.
Get Your Car Filters Replaced Today!
At Bluestone Automotive, we’re more than just a repair shop; we’re your trusted partner in keeping your car running smoothly.
Whether you’re due for a filter change, routine maintenance, or need a repair, our team of ASE-certified technicians in Lower Sackville is here to help. We pride ourselves on providing top-notch, personalized service with transparent pricing and easy online scheduling.
Don’t wait for your filters to cause issues down the road. Visit Bluestone Automotive today and let us take care of the details, so you can enjoy a smoother, more reliable ride.