A car air filter cleans the air that flows to the engine to ensure optimal engine efficiency. Over time the air filter collects dirt and particles and prevents clean airflow. A dirty and clogged air filter will cause various problems and could ultimately damage your car’s engine. Below your Ford dealer tells you what to look out for when it’s time to replace the air filter in your F-150, EcoSport, or Edge.
The Check Engine Light Is On
A dirty and clogged air filter will not allow enough
filtered air to flow to the engine, triggering the check engine light. Always
pay attention to the check engine light to avoid damage to your car’s engine
and other components. When the check engine light is on, schedule a maintenance
service at your dealer as soon as possible.
Your Car Guzzles Gas
A filthy air filter might be why you suddenly have to fill
up more often, even when driving the same distance. A dirty air filter prevents
clean airflow, and your car uses more gas to compensate for the shortage of
clean air, causing you to spend more money at the gas station.
Your Car Feels Sluggish and Slow
When the engine does not get sufficient clean air due to a
dirty and clogged air filter, it will impact your car’s engine efficiency. Your
engine will not run as smoothly, causing your car to feel sluggish and slow
when you step on the accelerator.
You Hear Unusual Noises
When the airflow to the engine is restricted, you will hear
popping noises or spluttering and coughing sounds coming from under the hood.
Your Car Vibrates and Idles Roughly
A dirty air filter limits the amount of air that flows to
the combustion chamber. Your car will begin to vibrate and idle roughly.
You Struggle To Start Your Car
Another symptom of a dirty and clogged air filter is when
you struggle to get your car going. The limited amount of airflow causes
unburnt fuel to change into soot, preventing a spark and causing starting
issues and misfires.
Black Smoke Pours Out of Your Car’s Tailpipe
Black smoke from your car’s tailpipe is due to a dirty air filter causing an incorrect air-fuel mixture. When you see smoke in your rearview mirror, call your dealer to schedule a maintenance appointment immediately to prevent engine damage.
Ford recommends replacing your air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles depending on your model, to prevent damage to your car’s engine. You can find the air filter replacement intervals for your specific model in your Ford owner’s manual. Call Crain Ford Jacksonville today to schedule a maintenance service, and our certified Ford technicians will ensure that your vehicle is in top-running condition.
Image via Ford.
