You need clean air to breathe and so does your car, and a vehicle's air filters make that possible. The non-profit Car Care Council reminds car owners to have the engine and cabin air filters inspected and changed regularly to ensure vehicle longevity and interior comfort.
"Air filters are your vehicle's first line of defense against contaminants that reduce cabin air quality and negatively impact engine performance," said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. "Community car care events held throughout the country reveal that nearly one out of five vehicles is in need of air filter replacement, so it's evident that motorists often overlook this simple, yet important service."
The vehicle's engine air filter traps dirt particles that can cause damage to engine cylinders, cylinder walls, pistons, piston rings and bearings, leading to the engine losing power. The air filter also plays a critical role in keeping pollutants from contaminating the airflow sensor on fuel-injected cars.
A normal wear item that requires regular checks and replacement, air filters should be inspected at each oil change and replaced annually or when showing other signs of contamination.
The cabin air filter is responsible for cleaning the air entering the passenger compartment. Under normal circumstances, it helps trap pollen, bacteria, dust and exhaust gases that may find their way into a vehicle's heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, compromising interior air quality and damaging the system.
Most cabin air filters are accessed through the panel in the HVAC housing, which may be under the hood or placed within the interior of the vehicle. A cabin air filter should not be cleaned and reinstalled. Instead, it should be replaced every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or per the owner's manual.
To help motorists "be car care aware," the Car Care Council has free tools on available on its website, including a personalized service schedule, an 80-page Car Care Guide in English and Spanish, and a Car Care Minute video about cabin air filters.
The Car Care Council is the source of information for the "Be Car Care Aware" consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For a copy of the council's Car Care Guide or for more information, visit www.carcare.org.
Fluids and lubricants rank among the most neglected items when it comes to basic auto care, says the non-profit Car Care Council.
Community car care events held throughout the country found that the top three fluids most likely to be low or contaminated are windshield washer fluid in 26 percent of inspected vehicles, followed by engine oil at 23 percent and coolant at 19 percent.
Windshield washer fluid keeps dirt and debris from collecting on a vehicle's windshield allowing the driver full visibility and making it an essential safety item. Windshield washer fluid should be checked monthly and drivers should use a fluid that is specially formulated for their climate.
Engine oil lubricates the moving parts of a vehicle's engine, helping keep the engine clean and preventing wear and overheating. Neglecting to change a vehicle's oil can lead to costly repairs, including replacement.
Engine oil levels should be checked frequently and changed per the owner's manual.
Coolant absorbs heat from the engine and dissipates it through the radiator and heat exchanger. Because coolant breaks down over time, neglecting it can lead to corrosion, rust and engine overheating.
Flushing and replacing coolant every six to 12 months, depending upon climate, will help prevent costly repairs.
"Checking fluids and lubricants is easy to put off, but each is critical to your vehicle running properly and safely," said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council.
"The good news is that they are easy to check and inexpensive to replace. Whether you do it yourself or visit a trusted technician, be sure to inspect your vehicle for any possible signs of trouble. You can address minor service needs before they turn into major repairs."
