Surprisingly, having a clogged cabin air filter can have a significant impact on fuel efficiency. The engine needs to work harder to produce the same amount of energy, resulting in higher fuel consumption. Ideally, you should change your cabin air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, but it's a good idea to consult your manual. A clogged air filter reduces airflow to the engine.
This can cause a decrease in power, acceleration and torque, as well as an increase in fuel consumption of up to 10%. It can also lead to engine suffocation or overheating due to a poor air-fuel ratio. Late model vehicles use one or more sensors to measure the amount of air entering the engine. The vehicle's on-board computer uses this information to adjust engine operation as needed.
To a certain extent, the computer can compensate for a dirty air filter. However, if the air cleaner is clogged with dirt, the computer may not be able to do so. Clogged engine air filters can reduce engine power, lower throttle response, weaken acceleration, and increase engine wear. Engine air, fuel and cabin air filters are essential parts of your vehicle, but they are often overlooked when it comes to regular maintenance.
If you have allergies or a sensitive respiratory system, the cabin air filter is essential to creating a more comfortable driving environment. Late-model vehicles aren't as sensitive to a dirty air filter as older vehicles are, but that doesn't mean they don't benefit from air filter replacements. Your car has two air filters and you may only change one of them when performing regular engine maintenance on each vehicle. The engine air filter helps prevent harmful contaminants from entering the engine, ensuring that only clean, residue-free air reaches this vital component. The best rule of thumb is to change the air filter according to the manufacturer's specifications.
While a dirty cabin air filter can affect the air conditioning system and cause persistent extraneous odors and poor cabin air quality, a dirty engine air filter can cause engine performance problems and lower fuel consumption. Premium Guard air filters are designed to meet or exceed OEM requirements with 99% efficiency, trapping almost all air pollutants while ensuring a low pressure drop for a flow of clean air. Most automakers suggest replacing the air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. This will help improve both your drivers' air quality and mileage as your car's AC system can finally “breathe easy” and stop working so hard to meet the thermostat requirements.
