You’ve probably seen photos of the black lungs of smokers in health class. Well, mechanics can show you pictures of dirty car filters that are just as clogged and scary. To keep your engine protected from dust, grime, and pollen and help it last longer, it is of the utmost importance to regularly clean its filter and replace it when the time comes. Dirty air filters can lead to severe problems in the mechanical part of the engine. In general, most of them serve the same purpose, but different filters provide different performance and protection. Although there aren’t many types, it’s important to know the features that specify their individual purpose. Let’s take a look at the different types and see what they’re capable of.
When it comes to better overall performance, combustion, fuel efficiency and a cleaner engine, the high flow air filter is incomparable. Although it is a bit more expensive, it is reusable, which, in return will pay itself off in about 2 to 3 years. A lot of high flow filters like the ranger air filter, (which can also be used for Lincoln car models) can increase a vehicle’s horsepower by about 10 to 15 hp and some even up to 25hp. I’m saying this out of personal experience because I’m so satisfied with it. A good intake of air will help produce more power for the vehicle and it won’t make it work as hard when accelerating while maintaining acceptable driving speeds.
A more basic and simple option is the conventional disposable air filter – it is meant to be used in older cars that don’t have a check engine light to notify you when your engine is gasping before its too late. Unlike the ranger air filter, this type of air filter should be checked more regularly for dust, because of the smaller form factor, meaning that they don’t provide the engine with as much air as the high flow air filter does. A standard air filter can slightly improve the air flow, which can bring up the gas mileage from about 10% to 15%.
The cabin air filter won’t make your car more efficient or faster, but it will definitely protect it from dust, pollen and most air pollutants, which can get through the air conditioning system, whether you are using it or not. The cabin filter can be placed either under the hood, behind the glove compartment, or under the dash – which makes it more challenging to replace it if you ever need to.
