How long does an air filter last?

Every internal combustion engine needs air to run. Without it, the fuel does not burn and does not provide the force needed to transfer power to the engine. In addition, the air must be clean. Otherwise, dust and debris will contaminate the engine, reducing its performance, wearing down metal components, and shortening the life of your vehicle. When the engine does not have enough air, a large load is placed on it.

This is where your car's air filter comes in. From the moment you start your car to the moment you turn it off, your air filter is always working. It supplies the right amount of air to the engine and traps dirt that can damage the engine. However, even the best air filter will do its job for a very long time. So how do you know when to replace your air filter?

A lot depends on driving conditions. If you drive frequently in stop-and-go city driving or spend a lot of time exploring dirt roads, you'll probably need to change your air filter more often than someone who drives infrequently and usually on tarmac.

The air filter should be changed approximately every 6,000 to 10,000 miles, and ideally at the same time as the oil change. At least you should check it out. Simply put, inspection costs nothing and you can avoid costly repairs later on.

Regardless of these recommendations, given that air filters can wear at different rates, you should be aware of symptoms that indicate an air filter is nearing the end of its life. Signs that the air filter needs to be replaced include: