How to Check the Air Filter in Your Car

Many people do not realize what role the air filter in their car plays. This little device acts as a cleanser that removes dirt and other pollutants from the air that the vehicle takes in. It prevents this dirt from entering in the fuel system and other important components of the vehicle. If you own and/or operate a vehicle, it is important to know how to check the air filter in that car. Here, you will learn some simple steps on how to accomplish this task.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. You will want to open up the hood and look around the center of the engine. You will see a large, circular casing – or even a rectangular casing. The air filter resides inside of this type of casing.
2. Once you have found the casing that contains the air filter, you will look to the top of that and find what is called the “wing nut”. The wing nut will be attached to a bolt that screws down in the center of the casing to hold it on.
3. Once you have located the wing nut, simple unscrew it. Once you are able to get it off, you should put it to the side in a safe place.
4. Once you have placed the wing nut in a safe place, it is time to remove the air filter casing. You will do this by lifting the top straight off.
5. You will now see the air filter. You should take out the filter and hold it up to observe it appropriately. If you are able to see light through the filter, then it does not need replaced. If you are not able to, you should shake it out to see if that makes a difference. If not, it is time for a new air filter.
6. Once you have a new air filter in place, you should check it often. Most suggest that every 15,000 to 20,000 miles is appropriate. However, those that travel on sandy or dirty paths should check the air filter more frequently.