Which filters in my car can be cleaned and which ones? Replaced?
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While it is recommended to change the filters in your car regularly, you can extend the life of some filters by cleaning them. However, over time, all filters need to be replaced as their cleaning becomes less and less effective. At this stage, it is better to have a mechanic change them.
Filter types
There are many different types of filters installed in your car, each designed to filter different things. The intake air filter cleans the air of dirt and debris as it enters the engine for the combustion process. You can find the air intake filter either in the cold air intake box on one side or the other of the engine bay in newer cars, or in the air cleaner that sits above the carburetor in older cars. This cabin air filter helps filter out pollen, dust and smog from outside your vehicle. The air intake filter is made from a variety of filter materials including paper, cotton and foam.
Most newer model vehicles do not have this feature unless it is added as an option by the manufacturer. You can find the cabin air filter either in or behind the glove box, or in the engine bay somewhere between the HVAC case and the fan.
Some other types of filters in your car include oil and fuel filters. The oil filter removes dirt and other debris from the engine oil. The oil filter is located on the side and bottom of the engine. The fuel filter purifies the fuel used for the combustion process. This includes impurities collected during storage and transport of fuel to a gas station, as well as dirt and debris found in your gas tank.
To find the fuel filter, follow the fuel line. While the fuel filter on some vehicles is located at some point in the fuel supply line, others are located inside the fuel tank itself. In any case, if you think any of the filters in your car need to be replaced, take it to a mechanic to make sure.
Replaced or cleared
The most common reaction to a dirty filter is to have it replaced by a mechanic. However, sometimes you can ask a mechanic to clean it to prolong the life of the filter. But what filters can be cleaned? For the most part, an intake or cabin air filter can be easily vacuumed or cleaned with a cloth, giving you more value out of the filter. However, the oil and fuel filters need to be changed regularly. There really is no way to clean a dirty oil or fuel filter, so replacing a clogged filter is the best option.
The intake filter will usually need to be replaced depending on the maintenance schedule you follow. This is either when the filter starts to look very dirty, or every other oil change, once a year, or depending on the mileage. Ask your mechanic for recommended intake air filter replacement intervals.
The cabin filter, on the other hand, can last longer between changes, and cleaning extends the life of the filter even further. As long as the filter media can filter out dirt and debris, a filter can be used. Even without cleaning, the cabin air filter lasts at least a year before it needs to be replaced.
The general rule of thumb when it comes to the oil filter is that it needs to be changed at every oil change. This ensures that it filters the oil properly. Fuel filters only need to be replaced when a part stops working.
Signs that a Filter Needs to be Replaced
For the most part, as long as the regular maintenance and replacement schedule is followed, you should have no problems with clogged filters. Instead of following a set plan, you may be looking for specific signs that it's time to change your filters.
intake air filter
A car with a dirty intake air filter will usually show a noticeable reduction in gas mileage.
Dirty spark plugs are another sign that your air filter needs to be replaced. This problem manifests itself in uneven idling, misses and problems starting the car.
Another indicator of a dirty filter is a lit Check Engine light, which indicates that the air/fuel mixture is too rich, causing deposits to build up in the engine.
Reduced acceleration due to airflow restriction due to a dirty air filter.
Cabin air filter
A decrease in air flow to the HVAC system is a strong indication that you need to see a mechanic to replace the cabin air filter.
The fan has to work harder, which is manifested by increased noise, which means that the air filter needs to be replaced.
A musty or foul smell coming out of the vents when turned on also indicates that it's time to replace the air filter.
The oil filter
When you change your oil filter depends on the condition of your oil. Black oil usually indicates that it is time to change the oil along with the filter.
Engine sounds can also mean that parts are not getting the proper amount of lubrication. In addition to the need for an oil change, this can also indicate a clogged filter.
If the Check Engine or Check Oil light comes on, you most likely need to change the oil and filter.
Fuel filter
Rough idling may indicate the need to replace the fuel filter.
An engine that won't crank may indicate a clogged fuel filter.
Difficulty starting the engine may indicate a fuel filter failure.
Engines that stall while driving or struggle to pick up speed when you hit the gas can also indicate a bad fuel filter.
