What are the effects of not changing the truck air filter for a long time?
2 Answers
Truck air filters that are not changed for a long time can clog the intake tract, affecting the engine's air intake, resulting in sluggish acceleration and increased fuel consumption. Below is relevant information about air filters: 1. Consequences of not changing the air filter for a long time: Many impurities in the air enter and burn together with gasoline, causing incomplete combustion, residue deposition, carbon buildup, leading to insufficient vehicle power and increased fuel consumption, entering such a vicious cycle. 2. Function of the air filter: The air filter can block dust and road dirt from entering the engine. These hard particles can cause internal engine wear, scratching the cylinder surface, adhering to tightly fitted parts, and causing surface wear on exposed and lubricated components.
I drove trucks for over a decade hauling goods, and my biggest fear was forgetting to change the air filter. At first, I thought I was saving money and hassle, but when the filter got clogged with dust, the engine couldn't get enough air. The truck would lose power, struggle on hills, and fuel consumption jumped by 20-30%. The cost of gas ended up higher than my wages. Dirt entering the engine accelerated wear on the cylinder walls and pistons—one repair cost me thousands. Later, I made it a rule to change the filter every six months. The truck ran smoother, saved fuel, and gave me peace of mind. Safety comes first on long hauls. Skipping filter changes leads to irreversible engine damage over time, doubling repair costs. A dirty filter also affects combustion, increasing black exhaust smoke and pollution—just not worth it.
