How to Change Air Filters

Regular air filter service is important and easy to do. 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.

Many vehicles have cabin air filters even though the owner's manual does not state that they do. PartSource has a vast selection of all of the forgotten filters to help keep your vehicle running clean and strong.

When to replace different types of filters

The engine air filter keeps dirt from entering your engine. Inspect every 3 months, and change your air filter every 40 thousand KM.

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 reuse cabin air filters.

To replace your cabin air filter see How To: Replace Cabin Air Filter in the Do It Yourself Jobs.

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.

First, check the air filter service indicator if you have one. There will definitely be one if you have a diesel air intake.

Knowing the location of the master airflow sensor on your car is important. It tells you when to perform periodic do-it-yourself sensor cleaning. This will save you a few bucks not to mention the risk of sensor failure.

PartSource has an extensive line of performance air filters, cold air intakes, turbo air boxes and many other air intake accessories. If we don't have it in stock, we'll find it for you.

Why You Should Replace Your Filters At The Recommended Intervals!

Without cold fresh air intake, engine performance and mileage will suffer. Increasing fuel economy may be as easy as a new air filter.

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.

Over time, dirt clogs the air filter so the engine can't breathe. Sluggish performance and poor fuel economy can be the result of a dirty air filter. Dirty air equals a dirty engine.

Switching to air filters that can be cleaned can save you money while installing a new cold air intake system on your vehicle can increase engine performance.

Vehicles used for heavy duty work may require more frequent air filter service. Motor engines act as air pumps. Chemically correct air fuel ratios are set to make power. More air, more fuel, more power. Pretty simple. Your air filter is what keeps the intake air clean. Without it your engine would suck in more dirt and contaminate your engine combustion chambers.

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

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.

How To Change Your Air Filter, Do-It-Yourself & Save

Every cold air intake system is slightly different. Don't attempt to force off tubes or air boxes. Check to see that all fasteners are removed first. Parts should come apart easily.

Consult your owner's manual. Locate the cold air intake system on your engine. Unfasten all clamps, clips, fasteners, hold-downs and hoses. Consult your owner's manual.

Carefully remove the air box cover and air filter.

Air box cleaning is the key. Make sure it is free of dirt and debris.

If it is a washable air filter, clean it before reinstalling. Fit the new or cleaned air filter in the air box and reinstall any fasteners and hoses that were removed.

You're done!