Signs of a Bad Air Filter

Is Your CarTelling You It Can’t Breathe?: Signs of a Bad Air Filter — Jeff’s Auto Repair

If your vehicle isn’t performing as it should, perhaps it’s telling you it can’t breathe. Although car’s don’t actually inhale and exhale like humans, they are dependent upon air to function. That’s because all internal combustion engines rely on air for the small controlled explosions that produce the power needed to propel the auto forward. If you think your vehicle may have a bad air filter, make your way to Jeff’s Auto Repair in Seattle, Washington. We can help you with air filter exchange or any other engine service or repair you need for any make or model.

Know the Signs

It’s helpful to know the possible warning signs of a bad air filter. Early recognition allows you to get attention for your car before the problems become more serious. Also, keeping a check on the air filter’s condition is wise. Have us inspect it periodically because hazards to your air filter are literally everywhere. These include dirt/dust, bugs, and debris you encounter along the road.

Sign #1:

Does the air filter look dirty upon visual inspection? If so, it needs attention. It should appear white or beige. (Even if you don’t see dirt, still have it checked periodically. Nasty clogging particles may be hiding in the inner layers that can’t be seen until your technician removes the filter.)

Sign #2:

Is your check engine light on? While the check engine warning can be triggered by a number of conditions, it may illuminate if the auto is starving for air. By volume, your car needs about 10,000 gallons of air in order to burn each gallon of gasoline.

Sign # 3:

Has your fuel mileage decreased? Surprising to some drivers, this could result from your vehicle’s effort to generate the power you’re demanding. If there isn’t enough airflow, the auto may be consuming extra fuel in an effort to make up for the lack of power.

Sign #4: 

Is there black smoke coming from the tailpipe? This could be a sign that your fuel isn’t being completely consumed during combustion. The root cause may be a lack of sufficient air.

Sign #5:

Are you noticing other performance differences? If it smells like gas, seems to have less power, or misfires, check the air filter.

Your Trusted Shop for Service and Repair 

Regardless of what has caused your air filter to become clogged or go bad, you’re going to need to take care of the problem. Your simplest solution is to bring your vehicle to Jeff’s Auto Repair. We go the extra mile for our customers, and we have the awards to prove it.