New Car Owner: How to Change Your Car's Air Filter
If you have recently bought your first car, you may want to carry out as much of the servicing and maintenance as you can. Unfortunately, due to technological advancements and in-car computers, a lot of the fine tuning will need to be carried out at an auto garage. However, there are still some car servicing tasks you can perform at home. One task you can complete is changing the car's air filter. If you haven't changed a car air filter before, this article will guide you through the process step by step.
Find the right filter
There are many different grades and sizes of air filters. It is important that you install the right type of air filter for your vehicle. The owners manual will detail the type of air filter you need and should list a code which will make it easy to locate when you visit an auto repair supply shop. If you have any trouble finding the right filter, ask an in-store assistant for help and let them know the year your car was manufactured and the make and model.
Prepare the vehicle
When carrying out any maintenance work on a car, it is important that you take some steps to make the environment safe. You should ensure that the ignition is switched off and that the handbrake is firmly applied. If your car has a manual gearbox, you should select first gear. If you drive an automatic, you should select 'park'. These actions will help to prevent the car from moving forward while you are working on it.
Locate the air filter
Pop the bonnet of the car, open it up and locate the filter. The air filter is normally situated on top of the engine block. It is typically rectangular in shape and has a thick plastic housing. If you are unsure of the location, you should refer to the car's service manual.
Remove the filter housing clamps or screws
The filter housing is held in place by a set of clamps or screws. You should remove the clamps or screws, and then gently lift the top panel of the filter housing off. You will then be able to access the filter itself and lift it up and out of the housing.
Insert the new filter
You should insert the new filter into the housing and reattach the top panel using the clamps or screws.
If you have any concerns about the performance of your car, you should visit an auto service centre for regular car service.
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