Get to know the value of cars with mileage - Automotive.

There are two things that the car owner should pay attention to in a car. These are fuel and air. For instance, if the car receives clean fuel but on the other hand receives dirty air, it may not function as it is supposed to. For this reason, cars are fitted with air filters. The purpose of the air filter is to keep the engine free of such elements as dust and insects. It is recommended that car owners clean or replace these filters at the very least once or twice a year. However, it would be prudent to change the filter after the vehicle has traveled some 12 000 miles. On the upside, car owners will discover that a car air filter does not cost much. Moreover, one can replace or clean it since the replacement or cleaning process is not complicated. While some car owners will opt to have their car filters changed by a professional mechanic, car owners can also successfully change the filter on their car.

It is important to change the air filter after some time for the simple reason that it negatively affects the overall performance in the car if not replaced regularly. When the air filter is clogged by dirt or insect residue it may affect the overall output of the car thus, the output of power in the car is less. This means that it becomes hard for the car owner to navigate for instance the freeway on a ramp. However, the biggest effect that a clogged air filter has on a car is on the gas mileage. There are a few easy steps to follow for users looking to the air filter. Firstly, it would be impossible to change the filter when the car is still running. Thus, the car should be parked on level ground and the ignition turned off. Next, the bonnet should be opened and propped up with a rod so as to locate the air filter. In most cars, the air filter is often located on the engine top.

As for older car models, mostly those that have carburetors, the filter is located under a circular plastic or metal cover. The air filter cover is removed by loosening the hose clamp sealing the air conduct and undoing the screws holding the air filter cover. After, this it is then possible to take out the air filter, which is usually circular or rectangular in shape and is often made of paper, cotton or even gauze. Once, the filter is out, the filter housing unit should be cleaned. However, this should be done after the air conduct has been sealed with adhesive tape so as to prevent dirt from getting into the engine during the cleaning process. A vacuum cleaner may be used to suck up any dirt particles logged therein. At this point the filter should be replaced with a new one by inserting it into the housing. It is also important to note that the rubber rim always has to remain facing up. Finally, replace the cover, by properly inserting it back into the air conduct.

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Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - How to Change a Car Air Filter