How To Tell If Your Air Filter Is Bad

A vehicle's air filter is usually a small and inexpensive part; but it's essential to performance & fuel economy.  A good/clean air filter is a basic need for the proper operation of a vehicle.  A clean air filter leads to more efficient gas mileage, increased engine life, better acceleration, lower emissions & overall enhanced engine performance.
Below are the top 4 problems that a vehicle will encounter when it has a bad/dirty air filter.  If you observe any of these signs with your car you should give us a call to resolve the problem(s).

Strange Engine Noises
A dirty air filter usually leads to several strange noises when the vehicle is idling.  If you observe spitting or coughing type noises when your car is stopped in traffic, it is a sign that your vehicle's engine isn't receiving sufficient airflow.

Decreased Performance
If you observe that your vehicle is not accelerating as well as it use to, or merely does not have the same power, there is a great possibility that the air filter is not permitting enough air into the engine. Your vehicle requires clean air for the combustion procedure & a dirty air filter inhibits the intake of enough clean air. You may also notice jerky acceleration while pushing the gas pedal. 
 
Gas Mileage
Pay attention to the average gas mileage your vehicle is getting.  A decrease in gas mileage is a common sign of a dirty air filter.

Spark Plug Problems
A dirty air filter significantly impedes the volume of air flow to the engine, which consequently leads to an overly rich air/fuel blend.  This rich air/fuel blend can then pollute the spark plugs that will, in turn, lead to the engine miss firing.  Spark plug issues can cause your vehicle to idle roughly & you may have problems starting it.

If your vehicle is experiencing any of the above problems give us a call to get the issues resolved.  We are here to help!