What are the consequences of not replacing the air filter?
2 Answers
Failure to replace the car's air filter can lead to abnormal engine operation. Here are the specific details: 1. During operation, the engine needs to intake a large amount of air. If the air is not filtered, the dust suspended in the air that is drawn into the cylinders will accelerate the wear of the piston assembly and the cylinders. 2. Larger particles entering between the piston and cylinder can cause severe "cylinder scoring," which is particularly serious in dry and sandy working environments. 3. Additional information: The air filter is installed in front of the carburetor or intake pipe to filter out dust and sand particles from the air, ensuring that the cylinders receive sufficient and clean air.
Not replacing the air filter can lead to a series of negative effects, primarily because it filters the air entering the engine. If neglected, more dust and impurities will enter the engine combustion chamber, resulting in incomplete fuel combustion. This directly causes a decline in engine performance, such as sluggish acceleration or difficulty starting, while fuel consumption will skyrocket as the system requires more power to compensate for inefficient combustion. Over time, dust buildup can wear down the cylinders and pistons, shortening the engine's lifespan and potentially leading to costly repairs, such as major overhauls or part replacements. Additionally, a clogged filter may restrict airflow, causing jerky sensations during acceleration or even black smoke from the exhaust pipe. It is recommended to inspect it regularly and replace it every 10,000 kilometers or once a year to prevent minor issues from escalating into major problems. Checking it during routine maintenance can save a lot of hassle later, especially when driving on highways or in congested urban areas, where the difference is more noticeable.
