Everyone wants a car that runs smoothly with little to no hiccups. However, some drivers are quick to skip basic car maintenance and unknowingly sacrifice the car’s well-being.

While filters are likely not top-of-mind, changing them regularly is easy to do and will keep your car running at peak performance. But did you know that your car has four different types of filters?

As the name implies, the function of all these filters is to catch impurities to keep the mechanics working properly and the car running efficiently. Let’s take a closer look at each type of filter and when to replace them.

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Cabin Filter

That bad smell in your car may be from a cabin filter overdue for a replacement. The cabin filter stops dust, pollen, exhaust gasses, and odors from entering your heating and cooling system and ultimately blowing on your face.

If you have allergies or respiratory problems, you may notice a dirty filter sooner than others. Staying on top of cabin filter maintenance will not only improve the efficiency of your AC and heater, but it may also improve your health.

Generally speaking, the cabin filter needs to be replaced every 15,000 miles.

Signs the cabin filter needs to be replaced:

• Unpleasant odors
• Rattling noise
• Weak airflow

Engine Air Filter

Your engine can’t run efficiently if dust, debris, sand or bugs reach the engine. Just as humans need oxygen, your car needs oxygen to fuel the combustion process.

This filter is easy to reach and should be checked every time your car receives other maintenance. Manufacturer guidelines for changing the air filter vary from 15,000 miles to 45,000 miles. Consult your car’s manual or one of our experienced professionals to know when your car is due for its next filter change.

Signs the engine air filter needs to be replaced:

• Decreased fuel efficiency
• Misfiring engine
• Unusual engine sounds
• Decreased ability to accelerate
• Black exhaust smoke
• Gasoline smell

Oil Filter

The oil filter removes particles in the oil that lubricates the engine. Dirty oil will greatly shorten the life of your car.

You should change your filter every time you change your oil. If you regularly drive on dusty roads or in very high temperatures, your filter should be changed more often.

Signs the oil filter needs to be replaced:

• Decreased acceleration performance
• Sputtering
• Sound of metal against metal
• Dropping oil pressure
• Dirty exhaust

Fuel Filter

Dirty fuel can cause the fuel pump and injector to fail. Regularly replacing your fuel filter will extend the life of your engine and keep your car running at top performance.

As your car ages, dirt, rust and contaminants settle on the bottom of your car’s fuel tank. This means your filter has to work harder and be replaced more often as your car gets older. On an older car, you should replace the fuel filter every two years or 30,000 miles.

Signs the fuel filter needs to be replaced:

• Engine sputters at high speeds
• Poor acceleration
• Decreased fuel efficiency
• Rough idle
• Stalling

Here at Christian Brothers Automotive Round Rock, we use only the highest quality filters on the market. Our professionals place as much care in changing your filters as we do in engine replacements.

Come in for your complimentary courtesy inspection. We will tell you which filters are due for a change, and we will never do anything to your car without talking to you first.

We can’t wait to see you. Schedule your appointment today.

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