What are the consequences of not replacing the air filter?

[StIsabel]

The consequences of not replacing the air filter include: 1. Reduced filtration efficiency, allowing fine dust from the air to enter the engine combustion chamber through the intake system, causing severe wear to the engine cylinders; 2. Incomplete combustion of gasoline, leading to increased carbon deposits in the throttle body. The accumulation of carbon deposits inside the engine can result in unstable idling, black smoke from the exhaust pipe, and engine vibration; 3. Excessive accumulation of impurities on the surface of the air filter can easily cause blockages, leading to insufficient air intake for the engine. Functions of the cabin air filter: 1. Providing fresh air; 2. Ensuring safety and hygiene; 3. Absorbing harmful substances; 4. Filtering solid impurities.

[VonErin]

As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I can tell you that neglecting to replace the air filter on time can have serious consequences. When the engine's air intake is restricted, it's like a person trying to breathe with a blocked nose—the car loses power, struggles on inclines, accelerates sluggishly, and feels like it's holding you back. Fuel consumption also spikes, burning an extra half to one liter per trip, which adds up to dozens of dollars in extra fuel costs each month. Over time, your wallet takes a hit. Carbon buildup inside the engine increases, accelerating wear on pistons and cylinders, potentially leading to premature failure and repairs costing thousands or more. Unfiltered pollutants result in incomplete combustion, emitting black smoke that pollutes the air and harms the environment. I recommend replacing it every six months or every 10,000 kilometers to keep the engine breathing smoothly, saving money, reducing hassle, and being eco-friendly. Regular maintenance of this small part can extend your car's lifespan.

[MacStella]

My car repair experience tells me that not changing the air filter can cause a host of problems. When it gets dirty, the air intake decreases, making the engine work harder, which directly manifests as slower acceleration, delayed starts, and sometimes severe shaking that affects driving smoothness. Impurities entering the combustion chamber lead to carbon buildup, which not only damages the pistons but can also cause engine cylinder scoring—a costly repair, at least several thousand dollars. Fuel consumption also increases, jumping from the usual 7L/100km to over 8L/100km, wasting hundreds more on gas each year. Insufficient power while driving can be problematic on highways or mountain roads, increasing risks. I always remind my friends to check or replace the filter every three months or 5,000 kilometers based on road conditions. This small action brings big benefits, such as extending the car's lifespan, reducing repair frequency, ensuring driving safety, and saving money and hassle.

[EstherLynn]

As a retiree, I prioritize practicality and cost savings when driving. Neglecting air filter maintenance leads to doubled expenses. Fuel consumption noticeably increases by 0.5 to 1 liter per 100 kilometers, costing an extra few dozen yuan monthly on gas. Over a year, this amounts to hundreds in losses. Poor engine airflow causes increased carbon buildup and accelerated wear, shortening the vehicle's lifespan. The car may age prematurely, requiring costly major repairs or earlier replacement with faster depreciation. Pollutants entering the system worsen emissions, releasing more harmful gases that harm the environment. Replacing the filter only costs a few dozen yuan every six months—a simple task that pays off long-term. My car requires fewer garage visits, saving both hassle and the environment. Regularly performing this small maintenance task helps preserve more retirement funds.

[CorbinAnn]

As a father of two, in-car health is my top priority. If the air filter isn't replaced, dust, pollen, and pollutants enter the AC system, causing frequent sneezing and coughing for my kids in the car, worsening their allergies and discomfort for long periods. On the engine side, restricted airflow leads to occasional stalling and unstable power, increasing risks during highway overtaking. Fuel consumption also spikes, costing over 100 extra per month on gas, while a new filter costs just tens of dollars and takes under 10 minutes to replace. Changing it quarterly as routine protects the engine, reduces carbon buildup, extends vehicle life, and most importantly ensures safe and healthy family trips—truly killing two birds with one stone.