How to Change Automotive Air Filters and How Often.

Replacing the filters in your vehicle is crucial to its continued smooth operation. Both fuel mileage and engine performance can suffer from a dirty air filter. A clogged fuel filter can prevent your engine from getting enough fuel during peak demand. Sometimes your vehicle has filters where you least expect them.

Many vehicles have cabin air filters even though the owner's manual does not state that they do. Most vehicles so equipped require cabin filter replacement as often as every 30 thousand KM. PartSource has a vast selection of all of the forgotten filters to help keep your vehicle running clean and strong.

Why You Should Replace Your Filters At The Recommended Intervals!

Vehicles use different filters to clean fuel, air for the engine, and even the air you breathe. These filters must be changed at regular interval to maintain proper operation of your vehicle's systems.

A clogged air or fuel filter can cause poor engine performance. Dirty cabin filters can crate musty odors inside your vehicle. Don't wait until filters become blocked to inspect and replace them.

Check with your Parts Pro or the in-store services like Mitchell On Demand for information on other important car care projects.

How To Replace Your Own Filters? Do-It-Yourself & Save!

Filter locations, requirements, and configurations vary by vehicle type and manufacturer. Consult your vehicles owners or repair manual for particular replacement intervals and procedures.

The engine air filter keeps dirt from entering your engine. Inspect every 3 months, and change your air filter every 40 thousand KM. For more information, see tips on Air Filters for more information.

Some PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) systems have an easy to overlook breather filter.

Many vehicles now have cabin air filters. Replace your cabin air filter if interior air smells musty or moldy. Do not attempt to clean and use cabin air filters.

Replace the fuel filter at least once a year. A clogged filter can restrict fuel flow and cause loss of engine performance. Refer to the Fuel Filter brochure for more help.

In case you need them, you can always find free print outs of specific vehicle instructions and torque specifications from Mitchell on Demand at your local PartSource store.

Everything you need for this job can be found at your local PartSource store. Ask a Parts Pro about what you'll need for the job. It's better to have extra spare parts ready for anything that might need to be replaced. The last thing you want to do, is go shopping when you have the car up on the jack.

When taking parts apart, be organized. Keep similar parts together in a safe place where they won't get lost and layout parts in a way that will allow you to put them back in the same order.

Every vehicle is different. When it comes to maintenance and repairs, always follow the vehicle's owner's manual.

Safety should be your number one priority. Don't smoke, drink alcoholic beverages, or wear a necktie while working on the car. Watch out for hot objects, sharp instruments, hazardous materials and other potential safety hazards in and around your workspace.

Don't work with a Philips when the job calls for flat. Substituting tools can compromise your safety or a vehicle's performance.

Finally, when the fun turns to frustration, or if the job requires specialized knowledge beyond your capabilities, please do not attempt it yourself. Talk to a Parts Pro or seek the assistance of a professional mechanic or installer. The last thing we want is someone getting hurt.