Your engine would inhale these insects, dirt clumps and bits of tree sap as well if it weren’t for the vehicle’s air filtration system. This system, including the cabin air filter and engine air intake filter, cleans out the sludge and grime so you and your car can breathe easy.

The Cabin Filter

For the same reason a construction worker wears a powder mask on a work site, your AC system needs a barrier between the vehicle and the outside air. Typically made of pleated paper, the cabin air filter eliminates the allergens and mold spores before they can enter your lungs.

This filter is part of your climate control system and is necessary to keep your air conditioner and heater working at maximum efficiency. Unfortunately, a dirty or clogged air filter will let allergens into the passenger cab.

Engine Air Intake Filter

The cabin air filter sifts through the air entering the passenger compartment. Likewise, the engine air intake filter removes the crud and gunk from the air flowing into the engine. Bugs, moisture, dirt and other substances are kept out of the engine thanks to this crucial element.

While fuel-injected filters usually have a pleated paper filter, older cars typically house a cylindrical air filter. No matter the kind of filter used, this component keeps dangerous foreign substances from corroding the engine or contaminating the fuel supply. Without the engine filter, foreign substances could adhere to the engine, carbon deposits could accumulate, the intake valves may clog and fuel efficiency will decrease.

Dirty filters impair the engine’s power.

Now that you understand the function of these two vital elements, you can keep them properly maintained. Our ASE-certified technicians recommend an air filter check every 10,000-30,000 miles. A simple strategy is to ask for an inspection with every other oil change.

If it’s time for an engine air intake filter replacement or a cabin filter replacement, call Christian Brothers Automotive Alliance in Fort Worth, Texas. Notice the nice difference!