If you want to replace a paper filter with a performance filter, make sure its compatible with your vehicle. It may be a tighter fit on certain makes and models, so it may be harder to insert. Thebest high-performance air filters are reusable as long as they are properly cleaned. Anddo these filters really carry a million-mile warranty? There might be an extra mile per gallon gain, but poor fuel consumption is bettercombatedby having properly inflated tires, addressing poor driving habits, avoiding steep terrain, and keeping up with maintenance onengines with high mileage. In order to consume gas and function properly, your car's engine requires adequate ventilation. My relationship with K&Nstarted about a decade ago when a friend of mine who built race cars told me thatI was a fool for not putting aK&N drop-in filter in my car. One thing to note: the package indicates that Purolator is an American Brand, but the filter is actually manufactured in China, so dont be fooled into thinking it is made in America if that is an important factor for you. Please provide your email address to begin receiving price alerts at home, at work, and on your phone! Well-known for their high-quality and low-cost products, Frams Extra Guard Panel Air Filter is no different. Here Are the 11 Cheapest Electric Vehicles You Can Buy, 2023 Honda CR-V: More Power, More Room, More Hybrid, 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 High Country Review: Chevy Completes Its Pickup, 2022 Ford Bronco Raptor Review: A Better Bronco in Nearly Every Way, 2022 Lexus LX 600 Review: A Flagship Needs to Be Better. It traps dirt and debris and prevents it from passing through the oiled layer. In thecase of the Fit K&Nsawa gain of 4.53 horsepower duringdyno testing. The EPA has not tested oil-bathed filters or other free-flow air filters, but it has conducted tests that compared clogged conventional air filters against new ones. Your MPGe/MPG and driving range will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, lithium-ion battery age/condition, and other factors. This high-quality and dependable air filter is super easy to install and provides a secure and tight fit that will protect your engine and limit wear. The greatest high-performance air filters may be reused if they are cleaned correctly. Enter your registered email address to request a password reset link. Other filters can be cleaned with an air hose and then reused, while some are designed to replace the cars stock paper air filters provided by the manufacturer. However, mechanics agreethatcheap airfilters can end upcosting a driver more in the long run by hurting fuel economy due to poor air flow, allowingcontaminants into the engine, and requiring replacement every 12,000 miles instead of every 1 million miles. If you modify your engine, i.e., add a turbo or supercharger, you will need a performance filter. We recommend its washable and reusable K&N Engine Air Filter. After that, replace or clean the filter. Your mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery-pack age/condition and other factors. 
While these companies are swearing up and down that their loyal customers have benefited from these air filters, our Honda service center serving Port Washington is here to provide you with the facts. 13 mile maximum EV mode driving range rating. With frequent oil changes, tire replacements, and even throwing out paper filters, the cost of upkeep for a vehicle can be quite high. Directions 
Itll be more cost-effective in the long run. It makes shifting noticeably smoother and increases horsepower. This model wont void your new car warranty and actually helps to boost your cars acceleration and engine performance. But how can you keep an engine in good working order? Its equipped with a durable and tight seal around the filter paper to prevent any unfiltered air from entering the combustion chamber. Its safe to say thatwhen it comes to cars, Im a bit of an aftermarket upgrade nut. Wix Filters, based in Gastonia, N.C., has been an innovator in filtration products since 1939. The enhanced breathing properties enable a greater flow of air into the engine. That, coupled with its super affordable price point, makes it difficult for us to find anything we dont like about this air filter. Manufacturer vehicle accessory costs, labor and installation vary. You may simply use the stock size filter that comes with your car or truck. It's essential that you make an automotive air filter comparison to ensure that the product you select is designed for your vehicle's make and model. The Driveand its partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links. Some of these reusable filters even allow more dirt into the engine. If you are going to utilize an oil-based filter, be sure it is thick. In addition, these high-performance filters cost more than conventional filters, and though they can last much longer, they require periodic cleaning and maintenance instead of periodic replacement. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through one of our links. In addition, some users say that the oil sprayed on some of these filter types gets into the engines air intake systems as well. These replaceable air filters are aimed at helping your engine achieve its maximum capabilities by increasing performance and fuel consumption. For additional information about EPA ratings, visit http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/label/learn-more-PHEV-label.shtml. If you have any questions about reusable engine filters or need yours replaced, dont hesitate to contact us at our Port Washington area Honda service center today. Increased airflow, while simultaneously filtering out these particles, helps to provide the muscle and acceleration every car owner is looking for. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks. Prices shown are manufacturer suggested retail prices only and do not include taxes, license, or doc fee. When choosing a replacement air filter, it is important to first determine your needs. So whats next for the worlds largest air filter manufacturer? Check out filters that protect your engine from water as well as airborne particles. The FRAM filter provides two-times normal protection by improving airflow and preventing dirt and dust from entering the engine. It seems a bit thicker than the original filter, so you may need to push down a bit on the cover to attach the clips or use pliers to pull the locking tab into place on the cover. Washable air filters are made with layered cotton that captures more contaminants, allows greater airflow, and requires less maintenance. The company continues to produce excellent products for everything from top-fuel dragsters to commuter vehicles. The EPA found no significant loss of fuel economy from a clogged air filter but did find in a test of gasoline-powered vehicles that acceleration improved with a clean air filter. Areport by Autoblog shows that long-term car owners will also see the greatest benefits with a K&N [filter] providing a savings of about $285 over 250,000 miles. Savingsare increased when upgrading to an intake system courtesy of alarger cone filter and smooth mandrel-bent aluminum piping. This filter uses specially treated paper that achieves better filtration results than many other engine filters on the market.
Be sure to select the right part number based on your car's make and model. This covers the materials utilized in the product's construction. With the exception of our high-performance pick, the K&N High-Flow air filter, all of the best engine air filters in 2022 are quite affordable to purchase and easy to find at most major retailers. When deciding who manufactures the finest vehicle air filter, you should also think about if the company offers a warranty. The majority of businesses provide one-year warranties. They can last the entire lifespan of the vehiclejust buy it once and keep reusing it. So unless thatcar is going up for sale anytime soon, its probably best to at least upgrade toa basic K&N drop-in unit. But why are these filters so damn so expensive? If you want the best air filter replacement, find one with multiple pleats or folds. FRAM Extra Guard Flexible Rectangular Panel Air Filter. Use for comparison purposes only. Remove the old filter, and throw it away if it's paper. What makes K&Nfilters so great, isnta filter from the dealer good enough? An oiled filter provides more clean engine performance than other types of filters, and it is also reusable. The filter's job is to keep contaminants out of the engine and safeguard it from depreciation. Over time a lack of air and increased particles can cause the pistons and cylinder walls to break d3own, leading to engine failure. All rights reserved. Paper filters must be replaced after 15k to 30k miles, based on where you travel. The product comes with directions and illustrations that provide clear installation instructions. 611 Glen Cove Road Some of these companies have many loyal customers who swear that they have benefited, particularly in performance, from using these high-flow filters. Thefour-to-six layersof cotton gauze media usedaresandwichedbetween two sheets of epoxy-coated aluminum wire mesh,and the filter is also pleated and oiled to improve filtration. A new air filter can increase your car's performance by improving airflow, since dirty filters restrict airflow and can become prone to allowing damaging particles into the engine. An official K&Ninstall video for their car should prove to themthat most K&N air filters caneasily be outfittedin a matter of minutes using household tools, and that almostany competent mechanic can slap acomplete air intake system onto a car in less than an hour. Depending on the usage, the engine may need a new filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. Note: Product shown is A3141C. Over time, they might degrade. The better that engine air intake filters can take in air, the faster theyll go. Learn more. Paper filters typically need to be replaced every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, depending on where you drive.
Despite being on the pricier side, the K&N High-Flow air filter is an excellent choice. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Jordan McDowell is a writer and automotive enthusiast.
Replacing an old, clogged air filter can drastically improve fuel economy and overall performance, such as horsepower and throttle response.Mann air filters maintain good air flow while efficiently filtering out particles that could harm your vehicle's engine, improving performance and extending engine life. Over time they will start to degrade. These reusable engine air intake filters are primarily made of cotton or nanofibers, and some are even washable. Performance filters are generally custom-fit based on the type and brand of your car.
With solid overall performance and affordable pricing, Mann air filters are easy to find and simple to install, making them a good all-around option for a replacement air filter. Although they provide long-term savings, washable filters tend to be more expensive than standard air filters. Everything from the exhaust system and brakes to the aerodynamics are addressed when I purchase a car, andit allstarts with a simple oil change and a quick assessment of whatever air filter was installed by the cars previous owner. To make things easier, we have put up a buyer's guide to assist you in selecting the best engine air filter. 2022 Auto Trends Magazine. Use for comparison purposes only. Furthermore, standard paper air filters use materials that restrict airflow and reduce engine performance. It improves the efficiency of your engine operation and helps prevent engine wear. Unfortunately, single-use paper filters will allow tiny particles and debris to enter the engine over time. To prevent decreased acceleration and horsepower and improve overall performance, the company recommends changing the filter every 12,000 miles. As a result, the engine has to put forth more effort. You may get a decent product at a cheap price from the internet or at an auto repair shop, however, these filters must be replaced on a daily basis. Its air flow management optimizes performance, allowing your car to get better horsepower and fuel economy. Over time, the paper filters are clogged, restricting airflow into the engine and reducing the performance and horsepower of the vehicle. This washable and reusable oil filter is designed to boost horsepower and rate of acceleration. If you don't, you can harm your Emissions Control System and cause problems with horsepower and fuel efficiency. There are a variety of engine air filter alternatives available on the market, making choosing one difficult. Note: Product shown is 332304. They called it Purolator, short for pure oil later." On the surface, these intake filter claims make sense. It's a one-time purchase because it lasts the lifespan of your car, and it improves the health and performance of your engine. A car engine needs air to ensure a proper combustion process. Clogged conventional air filters, when compared with reusable ones, found no significant loss of fuel economy. WIX designs manufactures and distributes products for automotive, diesel, agricultural, industrial, and specialty filter markets. To decrease pollution, clean or replace your filthy air filter regularly. Its also designed to help improve your fuel mileage when replaced every 12,000 miles. In recent years K&N hasbranched out into manufacturing itsown line of oil filters, cabin air filters, fuel filters, and have even come out with a washable oil filter that has magnets inside to collect metallic debris. One downside seems to be that the actual filter material seems slightly more porous than the Honda and Acura OEM filters, causing some concern over the long-term degree of filtration. Be sure to select the right part number based on your car's make and model. You could be able to maximize a performance filter for up to 50,000 hours prior to actually service it. Readily available at most major retailers and offering excellent value overall, this air filter effectively filters and prevents particles from entering your engine. Reusable air filters are a little more expensive, costing approximately $50 to $60, but they last as long as your car. However, its important to consider that reusable air filters ensure that car owners will purchase far fewer air filters throughout the many years of owning their vehicle.
Perhaps its an overheated engine or a dirty filter. Some users report that the filter doesnt fit as exactly and tightly as their OEM filter. Theyve also been thought to increase your vehicles horsepower and acceleration as a result of this filter. For example, if you frequently traverse dirt roads or live in a polluted area, you will have to replace it more often. As with any filters, it is a good idea to replace your air filter regularly but with a soft sealing gasket for a better fit and easier installation, this model filter offers good value for money. This filter is engineered and tested to some of the most rigorous standards in the automotive industry to ensure top-notch performance and reliability.
The LA Times editorial staff was not involved in the creation of this content. You can: Would you like us to send you price alerts? Your vehicle's engine, among other things, must be well-maintained for it to function at its best. Note: Product shown is 46116. All Rights Reserved. The air filter in your automobile must be changed or cleaned on a frequent basis. It screens out oil, grease, dirt, bugs, water, pollen, and anything else that blows into the vehicles grill. As far as overall design and quality go, Edmunds agrees that its pretty tough to beat a K&N filter. Get Rid of the Gunk With These Best Engine Degreasers. Best engine air filters aid flow by preventing contaminants from entering the gear system and combustion chamber. The Wix air filter does a good job of not restricting air flow, leading to better performance overall from your engine while providing good filtration to keep potentially damaging particles from entering the engine. This is one of the most popular engine air filters on the market. It's a fine decision to pick an air filter with greater temperature resistance if you often put your automobile to the sunlight. Standard single-use paper filters are made of a plastic or foam frame and designed to be thrown out after a short time. Consult your owner's handbook or check for a sizing chart online to ensure you are using the correct air filter for your vehicle's make and model. It does require some do-it-yourself steps, but it offers better durability and engine health. An effective engine air filter guarantees that only clean and filtered air enters the engine, which is essential for optimal performance. Its also important to know that there are no guarantees in this world when it comes to fuel economy, and its highly unlikely that someone is going to suddenly see amazing gains afterthey installa K&N filter. These replacement filters require occasional cleaning and re-oiling but should last the lifespan of your vehicle. Performance filters are usually custom-fit based on your vehicle's model and make. http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/label/learn-more-PHEV-label.shtml. It allows for high volumes of air flow while removing even minuscule particles. Keeping these contaminants out reduces the odds of excess fuel or particles building up in the engine. Id seen the advertisements on TV boasting how this amazing filter could save me gas, save me money, save the environment, give me more power, etc., etc. Id never taken the adsseriously, thinking it was just another company riding the coattails of The Fast & Furious-inspired performance car craze, but after looking into it, I found out that K&N had been around since the 1960s, and had a reputation amongrace teams, including NASCAR drivers. Also, the orange border allows you to write the install date and mileage on it for future reference. The company is located in Middlesex, N.J. One of its popular products is the Mann Filter C 35 154 Air Filter. Changing the filter enhances performance. They will be able to capture more pollutants as a result of this. There are filters capable of preventing the water and air contaminants to enter the engine of your vehicle. Volvo Owners With iPhones, Rejoice: Apple CarPlay Now Available, 2023 Chevrolet Colorado Comes in 3 Off-Road Flavors. Cone-shaped cooler air inlet or inducement systems are commonly used in a variety of vehicles and called just that. Nothing beats the feeling of driving a new car. After installing this high-quality filter in your vehicle, it seems to breathe a bit better, and your vehicle doesn't feel restricted or choked up like it can with a stock filter. If you live in a hot environment, this is very crucial to consider. Whatever the case, an air filter can solve both issues. But with its smooth aluminum bends, integrated heat shield, and much larger cone-shaped filter, there is little doubt that the K&N unit appears more capable. If you often travel on dirt roads or reside in a polluted region, for example, you may need to change it more frequently. Whilethis may not seem like a lot, every ponycounts -especially when driving an under-powered car like the Fit. If the filter is a performance filter, clean it and re-oil it if necessary. It's essential that you regularly replace or clean your automotive air filter. Although some may choose to take advantage of this, it's not always worth the hassle over simply purchasing a new one. Look at the filter and see if it will hold up under general wear and tear. Simply put, the engine probably wouldn't be able to consume the gasoline without air. The straw will deliver oxygen, but only in restricted amounts, and it certainly isnt going to make that 5K any easier. So why am I so adamant about putting these expensiveair filters on almost every vehicleI touch? You typically don't require a mechanic to do the task. Although they block out larger particles, they fail to repel tiny pollen, dust, and pollution, allowing them to infiltrate the engine. This type of air filter is coated in oil. A: As per specialists, you must replace your paper filter after 3 years if you do have one. Engine protection is provided by the best engine air filters. If it's a performance filter, clean it off and re-oil it, if required. Pay close attention to the air filter's overall structure. This allows them to trap more contaminants. When you're switching from a paper to a performance filter, be sure it suits your vehicle. Though reusable filters can last longer, they are significantly more expensive than conventional filters and require much more cleaning. If youre looking to improve air flow with the goal of boosting the efficiency and power output of the engine, more expensive filters suit this purpose. This filter, like most engine air filters, traps even the smallest particles before it reaches the engine, providing you with the cleanest air possible. This economical filter is meant to be a comparable option that can easily compete with more expensive filters, like FRAM. Be sure to select the right part number based on your car's make and model. A: You may need to replace your engines air filter if you notice weaker acceleration, decreased throttle control, and ignition problems. Filtering dirt and debris is less effective with air filters with flatter surface areas. Though that would seem to lend some credence to claims that a reusable freer-flowing air filter can improve acceleration in a car or truck, the significance of the performance gain depends on the vehicle in question. Thankfully, most engine air filters are simple to install. Air filters with flatter surface areas are less effective in filtering out dirt and debris. K&N claims their air filters are also washable and reusable. Cars are a lot like people in this regard: the easier they can breathe, the faster and more efficiently they can run, and avideoby K&N illustratesthe restrictions a stock filter will put on an engine. Ernest Sweetland and George H. Greenhalgh patented the first automotive oil filtration system in 1923. It will not only enhance your engines performance, but also maximize its efficiency to help extend your engine life. While they are superior to paper filters, they are also more expensive. Fram recommends changing your air filter roughly every 12,000 miles. There are several manufacturers out there that claim a reusable engine air intake filter provides better airflow to your engine. With decades of combined experience covering the latest news, reviewing the greatest gear, and advising you on your next car purchase, The Drive is the leading authority on all things automotive. Many are designed to directly replace the cars stock paper air filters provided by the vehicle manufacturers; other reusable designs are included in a freer-flowing air intake system that delivers more fresh air to the engine. With their washablehigh-flow cotton gauze design, these filters are both reusable and environmentally friendly, and are craftedto last the life of any engine. When it comes time to replace your GM engine air filter, you cant go wrong with the ACDelco GM Original Equipment Air Filter. In 1946, Purolator introduced a pleated paper oil filtera technology still in use today. EPAuto GP013 Extra Guard Rigid Panel Engine Air Filter. Air filter brands that are good will be built of high-quality materials and will last longer. You have to use the same filter that is fitted with your vehicles. Reusable air filters are a great way to decrease that cost. Most of the time the filter gets a poor bill of healthand is tossed in the trash whilethe oil is still draining, and in place of that decrepit old air filter Imalways sure to pop in one of K&Ns reusable, million-mile warranty filters. A high-quality washable air filter eliminates these foreign particles from the circulating oil in the engine components for greater protection and longevity. The best engine air filters will protect your vehicle from dirt and debris. The FRAM filter improves airflow and prevents dirt and dust from entering the engine. This filter is excellent quality, easy to install (it takes less than five minutes), and it doesn't require any special tools or mechanical skills. This includes the material used in the construction of the product. These are often cone-shaped and are referred to as cold air intakes or induction kits. Make the most of your shopping experience by creating an account. The product comes with directions and illustrations that provide clear installation instructions. Purchase one of the top engine air filter manufacturers if you desire greater horsepower. Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, wisdom of the crowd assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. Q: How can I determine if its time to change the air filter? Technology, performance and design delivered to your inbox.
It holds dirt and particles in place, preventing them from flowing through the oiled layer. You may need to push down on the cover to attach the clips, Features more pleats than the OEM filter, hopefully removing more debris and contaminants, This economical filter is meant to be a comparable option that can easily compete with more expensive filters, like FRAM, Actual filter material seems slightly more porous than the Honda and Acura OEM filters, causing some concern over the long-term degree of filtration. Ever seen an old car with a sputtering engine that puffs out black smoke? It makes shifting noticeably smoother and can increase horsepower. Debris can cause the cylinder walls and pistons to grind and degradeand damaged pistons will inevitably lead to engine failure. A: If you experience sluggish acceleration, poor throttle control, or ignition issues, your engine's air filter may need to be replaced. This air filter from AC Delco offers good overall value, with solid performance and quality for a reasonable price. Also, lets not forgetthat most auto parts stores stocka wide rangeof K&Nproducts, and for web savvy shoppers out there (like myself), an inexpensive K&N air filter bought online beforedriving home a used car is alwaysasmartdecision. Personally, Imwaiting to see if itcomes out with reusable high-flow furnace filters andwater filtration systems for my house. Copyright 2022 Endgame360 Inc. All Rights Reserved. These filters can be cleaned with a special oil and then reused, with one manufacturer claiming that this filter can last for up to a million miles. If the service light kicks on or black smoke comes out of the exhaust, you may need a new air filter. If you use an oil-based filter, make sure the oil is dense. Q: How would I replace my vehicles engine air filter? Check our car air filter guide to find the best products on the market for your Toyota, Honda, Volkswagen, and other types of vehicles. A: If you have a paper filter, experts recommend changing it every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or every three years. Flash forward 10 years (and several car upgrades later)and Ive seen it all when it comes to K&N filters.