Keep Your Engine Running Smoothly: When to Change Your Vehicle’s Air Filters
As car owners, we often focus on oil changes and tire rotations, but one crucial maintenance task that sometimes slips under the radar is changing the air filters. Your vehicle’s air filters play a vital role in keeping your engine running smoothly by preventing dirt, debris, and other contaminants from entering the engine. But when should you change them? Let’s delve into this essential aspect of car care in this blog by our team at Bickford Ford in Snohomish, WA.
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1. Mileage Milestones: A general rule of thumb is to replace your vehicle’s air filters every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. However, this can vary depending on driving conditions. If you frequently drive on dusty roads or in heavy traffic, you may need to replace them more often.
2. Visual Inspection: Sometimes, you don’t need to wait for a specific mileage interval to change your air filters. Regularly inspect them visually. If you notice them looking dirty or clogged with debris, it’s time for a replacement.
3. Decreased Performance: One of the most noticeable signs that your air filters need changing is a decrease in your vehicle’s performance. If you experience reduced acceleration, sluggishness, or difficulty starting your car, it could be due to clogged air filters restricting airflow to the engine.
4. Increased Fuel Consumption: Dirty air filters can also lead to decreased fuel efficiency. If you find yourself visiting the gas station more frequently for refills, it might be a good idea to check and replace your air filters.
5. Check Engine Light: An illuminated check engine light can be triggered by a variety of issues, one of which could be a dirty air filter. Don’t ignore this warning sign; have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic to diagnose the problem.
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Schedule Service in Snohomish, WA
Regularly changing your vehicle’s air filters is a simple yet effective way to ensure optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency—schedule service with us at Bickford Ford in Snohomish, WA.