CHARLOTTE – Filters are an integral part of your car. Today, we’re going to talk about air filters. Proper filter maintenance doesn’t have to be hard at all!

Your car needs air to function. It combines air with gas in order to create combustion. Because this air is going into the engine, it needs to be as free of debris as possible. Enter the air filter. The air filter not only keeps small particles, like dust, out of your engine but can also prevent large items like leaves or even acorns (seriously, squirrels love the inside of your engine bay) from entering your engine. A dirty filter can result in lost horsepower and a poorer fuel economy. You should have them inspected and cleaned every oil change and replace them approximately every 15,000 miles.

Cabin air filters, on the other hand, are for you. They control what you breathe. Think of them as the air filters in your home. Not only does it keep the air you breathe clean, but it also helps act as a barrier for important components, like blower motors (Again, squirrels. You’d be surprised where we find acorns.) Once again, you should have it inspected every oil change and replace it every 15,000 miles. Note that, unlike engine air filters, not all cars have cabin air filters. Check your owner’s manual for specific information.

Now that you’re up to speed on air filters, be sure you keep them maintained, and don’t forget to clean them!

Questions? Call us at (704) 545-4597, check us out online at www.manchesterautoandtire.com, or email us at kenmanchester1@gmail.com.