Did you know that your car needs air as well as gas? In a sense every vehicle needs to breathe, and the air filter serves the purpose of filtering out foreign particles like dust and pollen to allow your car to essentially breathe in the air it needs for the engine to mix with gas to run properly. This is why air filter replacement is important to maintain the life of your car.

Air filters are made from a variety of materials from simple accordion-style folded paper to specially formulated fabrics and foam-like materials encased in plastic or metal. Whatever the brand, the air filter will accumulate dust, pollen, and other particles, preventing them from entering the engine. No matter what type of air filter you use, it will have to be periodically replaced as they become clogged with all the foreign matter they are filtering out, otherwise your engine will essentially choke.

Regular air filter replacement can ensure that your engine performs at its optimum level. If air flow is restricted then the engine must work harder and this burns through fuel faster, reducing fuel efficiency. Driving in arid climates, frequenting dirt roads, or driving in areas with heavy pollution can create conditions that clog up the air filter more frequently, but generally changing a filter at least once a year is advised. Another rule of thumb is to have a mechanic check your air filter during routine oil changes.

Replacing an air filter is not a difficult job if you choose to do it yourself, and does not add much to the cost of an oil change if you choose to have a mechanic perform the task. Air filters are relatively inexpensive, but can have a huge impact on the performance of your vehicle should you neglect it.

Visit Havoline xpress lube, which is located at 725 Hwy 66 South in Kernersville, NC for your vehicle service needs such as oil changes, air filter replacements, transmission services, tire rotations and many other types of vehicle services. We are only a short drive from Greensboro, High Point, and Winston Salem.