What are the effects of not changing the car air filter for two years?
2 Answers
Not changing the car air filter for two years mainly has the following effects: 1. If the air filter has not been replaced for two years, it is likely to be clogged, which will hinder air flow, reduce the engine's air intake, cause a decrease in engine power, and significantly increase fuel consumption. 2. Additionally, a dirty air filter will reduce its filtering effectiveness. The air entering the engine may carry small sand particles and impurities, which can cause wear and damage to the cylinder walls, pistons, piston rings, and valves over time. 3. Extension: In reality, the replacement cycle of the air filter should be analyzed based on actual conditions. Under normal urban driving conditions, it can be replaced every 20,000 kilometers.
I remember one time my car's air filter hadn't been changed for two years, and the car started running very roughly. The engine noise became louder, and there was a noticeable lack of power. Starting off felt laborious, and going uphill was even more strenuous. Fuel consumption shot up—normally a full tank could last 500 kilometers, but now it barely made it past 400. Later, when I took it to the repair shop, they found the filter was completely clogged with dust. The mechanic said this would increase internal engine wear, potentially damaging the piston rings, and over time, it could lead to increased carbon buildup, affecting the entire powertrain. I recommend changing it every year or after every 10,000 to 20,000 kilometers—don't wait until problems arise. Regularly checking the filter's condition is key to car maintenance, saving both money and hassle.