2024-03-07
car cabin filter-How Often Do You Need to Replace the Air Filter in a Car?
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.An internal combustion engine needs air to breath, the same as you or I. The more clean air, the better.An engine air filter, which is different from the cabin air filter, traps solid pollutants so they don’t get into the engine. A dirty air filter can cause the dreaded Check Engine Light to come on and lead to all kinds of performance problems.Over the years I’ve replaced many clogged, filthy and rotted air filters. One time, some creature built its nest in the air filter housing. The animal’s fur completely clogged the filter and the engine wouldn’t start!Never drive without an air filter ($25) installed. Minuscule particles of dirt and rust from the air cleaner housing can make their way into an engine’s combustion chamber, ultimately tearing up the main bearings and crankshaft. That can ruin a $4,000 engine in short order.