Why It’s So Important to Regularly Change Your Car’s Filters

If you want your car to run like new, it’s important to regularly replace its various filters. Cars have four of them and each has a different but important function. Here’s what you should know about each filter.

Cabin Filter

This filter cleans the air that comes into your car through the heating and air conditioning systems. Without it, dust, pollen and other airborne particles would clog the air, potentially causing problems for people with allergies and respiratory issues.

A clean cabin filter ensures proper air flow and helps to prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning, heating and ventilation systems.

Air Filter

Your car’s engine needs a continuous supply of fresh air in addition to fuel in order to perform as efficiently as possible. The air filter prevents dust, road debris, insects and air particles from reaching the engine.

This filter ensures clean air enters the engine to mix with fuel and helps make the engine work efficiently.

Oil Filter

This filter helps to maintain the purity of motor oil. It aids in getting rid of contaminants that accumulate in the oil due to engine wear. This type of filter ensures that the motor oil is fully functional until the next oil change.

Clean oil filters reduce engine wear, as there are fewer contaminants passing through to slow the flow of oil.

Fuel Filter

Your fuel filter stops impurities like dust, dirt and rust that may be found in the fuel from getting into your engine. This protects your engine’s fuel injectors and helps to maintain optimal performance.

If you have a clogged fuel filter, the fuel pump has to work harder than normal, which may affect your ability to start or accelerate your car.

How Often Should You Change Your Filters?

While every manufacturer has different recommendations, in general, cabin and air filters should be changed every 20,000 kilometres or once a year. Fuel filters should be replaced every 30,000 to 40,000 kilometres. The oil filter should be replaced each time the oil is changed.

For the specific recommended filter-change timeline for the make and model of your car, check your vehicle’s owner’s manual.

For Expert Auto Repair & Maintenance Just Visit a Minit-Tune Near You!

If you need to replace your car’s filters, the auto repair experts at any Minit-Tune & Brake location in B.C. or Alberta can help. Contact a location near you today to schedule your appointment.