Combustible engines, like those found in most cars and trucks, create power by combining air and gasoline in a chamber. Before the air reaches the engine, it goes through an air filter. The air filter’s job is to catch dirt, debris, insects, and other contaminants from reaching the engine while allowing for enough air to get through to the engine.
Like the filter in your home’s A/C unit, it eventually will need to be replaced. Over time, it will have collected a significant amount of substances, and as a result, it will become clogged and dirty. Given that this component has a lot to do with the health of your vehicle, at Casey’s Automotive in Chantilly, VA, our automotive repair experts will describe the warning signs, and the dangers, of a dirty air filter below.
The Engine Can Misfire
If the air filter is clogged and restricting the air supply to the combustible engine, it can cause soot to accumulate on the spark plugs. When a spark plug is rendered incapable of generating the spark necessary to ignite the fuel-air mixture, the engine will not easily start and misfire.
This will also cause unusual engine sounds. When a car or truck vibrates excessively or creates popping sounds, it can be due to a clogged air filter.
Horsepower Might be Reduced
Airflow is everything for an engine. If the airflow is restricted, you might notice jerking movements while trying to accelerate. Replacing the air filter as necessary can improve your ride’s horsepower.
Exhaust System Suffers
Fuel needs to burn off as an engine runs through its combustion cycle. If the air supply is inadequate, it will not burn off the fuel. The unburnt fuel then exits the car through the exhaust pipe. Unburnt gas exiting an exhaust pipe can result in black smoke and even flames. This can be a hazardous situation that will need to be diagnosed by Casey’s Chantilly, Virginia technician.
When Does the Air Filter Need to be Replaced?
Most manufacturers recommend the air filter be replaced every 10,000 to 15,000 miles, but that depends on the area your vehicle frequents. Driving in areas that are congested such as large cities, or dusty, rural areas might mean your vehicle’s filter needs replacing more often.
It is also important to note that with an inadequate air supply comes carbon deposits which will accumulate on the engine. When that happens, it is likely to set off your Check Engine Light.
Casey’s Automotive: Repair and Maintenance in Chantilly, VA
Good airflow to the engine of a car or truck is necessary for its health. Air filters help to prevent harmful elements from damaging the crucial components of an engine. As the best automotive repair service provider in Northern Virginia, Casey’s Automotive offers complimentary inspections of the air and cabin filter, as well as 40+ other areas of the vehicle! Our complimentary inspection is sent to the customer via text and includes images and descriptions.
Stuck at home? No problem! Casey’s Concierge Service is here to serve you. By appointment, our Concierge Team will pick-up your vehicle from your home or place of work for service. We also sanitize the vehicle upon its return to the customer. The Concierge Service is available at NO additional cost!
