Basic car maintenance is essential to keep your vehicle up and running smoothly, and one crucial yet often overlooked component is the air filter. Over time, the filter accumulates dirt and debris, which can affect engine performance.
However, it's easy to detect a dirty air filter, and replacing it takes a few minutes. The filter change is crucial to ensure clean air enters your car's engine. Read on to find out how to change an air filter in a car.
How to change an air filter in a car: step by step
Here's how to replace a car air filter.
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Locate the air filter housing and open it
Open the hood and use the prop rod to keep it up while you work. The location of the air filter depends on the car model—you can use the car manual to find it. In most vehicles, the air filter is housed in a black plastic box near the engine, secured with clips or screws for easy access and replacement.
Once you locate it, use pliers or a screwdriver to remove any fastener. Lift the cover to spot the car engine air filter.
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Get rid of the old air filter
Use both hands to carefully remove the old air filter from its housing unit before replacing it with a new one.
Before you install a new filter, use a clean rag to wipe the inside of the housing to remove dirt or debris. Do it carefully to avoid dirt particles from getting into the engine. A handheld vacuum works well in sucking up any dirt clogged inside the air filter housing.
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Fix back the new car engine air filter
Insert the new air filter into its housing. It should fit easily without showing any openings around. Gaps around the filter could let in raw, unfiltered air. Use the screwdriver to reassemble the housing and air duct, fastening it with screws or clips.
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Start the engine and confirm it's running well
Start up your car engine,and ensure there are no strange sounds like whistling. If everything sounds normal, you've successfully replaced your car engine air filter.
Conclusion
A clean air filter enhances your car’s efficiency, improves fuel economy, and extends engine life, making regular replacement essential for vehicle maintenance. The process is simple—just follow the step-by-step guide above to replace your car’s AC filter. Beyond routine upkeep, protecting your vehicle with a comprehensive car insurance policy is equally important. The right insurance plan safeguards against third-party liabilities, theft, and unforeseen damages, ensuring both your car’s longevity and your peace of mind on the road.
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