What happens if the air filter is not replaced for a long time?
4 Answers
Not replacing the air filter for a long time can accelerate engine wear, shorten the engine's service life, and in severe cases, may even lead to cylinder scoring. The air filter is a device that removes particulate impurities from the air. When piston machinery (such as internal combustion engines, reciprocating compressors, etc.) operates, inhaling air containing dust and other impurities will exacerbate component wear. Therefore, it is essential to have an air filter installed. Air filters are primarily used in pneumatic machinery and internal combustion machinery, providing clean air to these mechanical devices to prevent them from inhaling air with impurity particles during operation, thereby reducing the likelihood of increased abrasion and damage.
I drove my car for three years without changing the air filter, and later noticed it was getting sluggish during acceleration and the engine would whine powerlessly when climbing hills. Upon inspection, I found the air filter was completely clogged with dust, severely restricting airflow and making the engine struggle terribly. Fuel consumption also skyrocketed, costing me dozens of extra dollars in gas each month—enough to buy a bottle of engine oil. Worse yet, those tiny dust particles sneaked into the cylinders, gradually wearing down the pistons and cylinder walls. Over time, the engine might need a major overhaul. A friend of mine had to pay $800 for repairs after the engine warning light came on due to this issue. It’s recommended to replace the filter every 10,000 km or once a year. Buying one and swapping it yourself takes just over ten minutes, and the car will immediately feel revitalized. Don’t underestimate this—city dust builds up fast, and skipping replacements will lead to regret.
Long-term failure to replace the air filter leads to decreased air quality and a significant drop in engine combustion efficiency, causing fuel consumption to skyrocket. I remember once on a long business trip, driving thousands of kilometers without changing the filter, resulting in more black smoke from the exhaust—not only wasting gasoline but also polluting the environment. Increased carbon dioxide emissions exacerbate urban smog problems. If the car's air conditioning is connected to the intake duct, the airflow can develop a strange odor, affecting respiratory health. It's advisable to follow the manual's maintenance schedule, such as replacing it every 10,000 kilometers, which saves money and is environmentally friendly. In fact, with heavy urban traffic, filters get dirty faster. Replacing them early ensures smooth engine operation and reduces carbon emissions, contributing to the planet.
If the air filter is not replaced for a long time, it will become clogged with dust and dirt. When the engine's air intake decreases, the power immediately drops, and the car feels sluggish during acceleration. The increase in fuel consumption is due to incomplete combustion and low efficiency. Last time I checked my car, I found the old filter had accumulated a thick layer of dirt. After replacing it with a new one, the engine response improved by more than double. Dust entering the cylinders can wear out parts such as piston rings and cylinder walls, potentially leading to engine knocking or oil burning, resulting in expensive repairs. It is recommended to replace it every maintenance cycle for simplicity and peace of mind.
