How to Determine the Quality of a Car Air Filter?
2 Answers
There are several methods to determine the quality of a car air filter: 1. Waterproof performance of the air filter: The air contains a large amount of moisture, especially during rainy days when the moisture content is higher. If the air filter's waterproof performance is poor, it can easily become damp, which affects the smooth air intake of the compressor and may even cause blockage. 2. Filtration accuracy of the air filter: If the filtration accuracy is not high, even small dust particles and impurities can be sucked into the compressor, affecting the lifespan of components like the oil separator, engine oil, oil filter, and bearings. 3. Air permeability of the air filter: Poor air permeability can also hinder the smooth air intake of the compressor, leading to blockages and increased consumption.
As a veteran driver with decades of experience, the simplest way I judge an air filter's condition is by checking for severe dirt accumulation based on experience. First, open the air filter box in the engine compartment, take out the filter, and hold it up to a light source to check its transparency—if it's completely gray and you can't see through to the other side, it's time for a replacement. I remember once after a long dusty drive in the countryside, the filter was so clogged that the engine idled roughly and lost power. After replacing it, the car ran much smoother immediately. For regular city driving, changing it every two years is usually sufficient, but if you often drive on construction sites or dusty roads, you should check it every six months. Don't skimp on this small expense—a bad air filter restricts airflow, increasing fuel consumption and damaging the engine. If you're handy, you can DIY the replacement—just buy a matching filter for a little over ten dollars and install it following the manual, saving time and money.
