Signs of a Dirty Engine Air Filter [5 Signs]

As a car owner, it’s important to keep your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently. One critical component of your car’s engine system is the air filter. The air filter plays a crucial role in ensuring the engine receives the clean air it needs to run smoothly. In this post, we’ll discuss the signs of a dirty engine air filter and why it’s crucial to replace it.

What does the air filter do?

The air filter is an essential component of your car’s engine system. Its primary function is to prevent harmful contaminants, such as dirt, dust, and debris, from entering the engine. 

It accomplishes this by trapping the contaminants in its fibers while allowing clean air to pass through to the engine. Over time, the air filter can become clogged with these contaminants, reducing the amount of clean air that reaches the engine.

Why does the air filter need to be replaced?

The air filter needs to be replaced regularly to ensure that it continues to perform its function correctly. As it becomes clogged with contaminants, it restricts the airflow to the engine, reducing its performance and efficiency. A dirty air filter can also cause damage to other engine components, such as the mass airflow sensor or spark plugs. It’s recommended to replace the air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first.

Signs of a Dirty Engine Air Filter:

1. Decreased Fuel Efficiency

A dirty air filter can negatively impact your car’s fuel efficiency. A clogged air filter restricts the flow of air into the engine, which can cause the engine to work harder to draw in the air it needs to operate. This increased workload can cause your car to burn more fuel than it would with a clean air filter, reducing your fuel efficiency. If you notice a sudden decrease in fuel economy, it could be a sign that your air filter needs to be replaced.

2. Check Engine Light is On

A dirty air filter can trigger the check engine light to turn on. When the air filter is dirty, it can cause an imbalance in the air-fuel ratio, which can lead to a variety of issues. One of these issues is the activation of the check engine light. If you notice the light has come on, it is best to take your car to a mechanic shop and have it inspected as soon as possible.

3. Unusual Engine Sounds

A dirty air filter can also cause unusual sounds to come from your engine. As the engine works harder to draw in air through a dirty air filter, it may produce unusual noises, such as coughing or sputtering. These sounds can indicate that the engine is not receiving enough air, and the air filter may be to blame.

4. Decreased Acceleration

A dirty air filter can also cause your car to experience decreased acceleration. As the engine struggles to draw in the air it needs to operate, it may not be able to accelerate as quickly as it should. If you notice that your car is slower to respond when you press on the gas pedal, it could be a sign that your air filter needs to be replaced.

5. Black Smoke from the Exhaust

Finally, a dirty air filter can cause your car to produce black smoke from the exhaust. When the engine is not receiving enough air, it can cause an imbalance in the air-fuel ratio, resulting in excess fuel being burned. This excess fuel can create black smoke, which is a sign that something is wrong with the engine. If you notice black smoke coming from your car’s exhaust, it’s best to have it inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible.

Air Filter Service at Borst Automotive

Keeping your air filter clean is vital to keeping your vehicle running at its best. They’re relatively cheap to replace and make a world of difference in the efficiency and performance of your vehicle. 

If you’re in need of an engine air filter replacement, or at least suspect you may need one, schedule an appointment with the friendly and experienced team at Borst Automotive. Whether you’re in Phoenix, Mesa, Tucson, or any of the surrounding areas, we have you covered with locations close to you!