When it comes to vehicle performance, air flow is a key factor. If not enough air reaches the engine, it can have a negative impact on the vehicle's power and acceleration. You may notice that your car responds slowly when you press the accelerator, and this is often due to a dirty air filter. Replacing the engine's air filter can improve acceleration, as well as increase horsepower and even improve mileage.
It is recommended to change the engine filter at least once a year or whatever is recommended in your vehicle's owner's manual. To do this, unclip the clips from the air filter housing, lift the top of the housing to access it, and remove the old air filter. Premium air filters are available on the market, but they may not always be worth the money. For example, a washable Chinese cone may cost less than a disposable filter, but it requires time and skill to install.
Motor Vehicle Maintenance & Repair Stack Exchange is a great resource for DIY enthusiasts who want to learn more about air filters. Car air filters are designed to ensure an even and clean air flow in the engine, which facilitates the combustion process. Installing a high-performance air filter can result in a smoother idle and even an increase in performance at maximum speed. However, it is important to note that installing just one high-performance air filter can reduce fuel efficiency and engine life.
To measure the air flow of a particular air filter, you will need two pressure gauges and accessories to pierce the air intake duct before and after the filter is installed. As an expert in this field, I tested a completely new, market-leading oil air filter against a standard Ford factory paper filter. The test results were very similar, only this time there was a 3% difference in air flow and 26% vacuum, which favored the dirty appearance of the paper filter. For normal old cars, a standard and cheap paper filter is usually the best option.
However, for high-performance applications, basic performance filters may not be enough. In this case, it may be worth investing in a premium air filter and cleaning it every few thousand kilometers.
