6 Signs Your Acura Needs a New Air Filter

Your car air filter may seem a relatively unimportant component, but a malfunctioning air filter can rapidly lead to quite serious and costly vehicle problems. With this in mind, keep an eye out for the following signs of car trouble, any of which might indicate the need for a new air filter. You can have your air filter replaced at any time at your local Acura dealership. 

6 Signs Your Acura Needs a New Car Air Filter

Unusual Engine Sounds

Combustible engines require a steady inflow of fresh oxygen to mix with the fuel inside the cylinders. If an air filter clogs up and restricts this inflow of air, the fuel-air mixture will become unbalanced. This can lead to misfiring, which causes the engine to shudder and sputter loudly. 

Falling Engine Power

While a clogged filter starves an engine of air, the engine will lose power. When you step on the gas pedal, you won’t be able to gain the same burst of speed as usual. 

Smoke in the Exhaust Fumes

Bad filters cause an excess of fuel to build up inside each combustion chamber. Not only can this excess fuel start to foul the spark plugs, but it may also leak back into the exhaust system. The fuel may partially ignite inside the exhaust pipes, causing smoke to emit from the tailpipe and also potentially causing damage to the catalytic converter. 

Trouble Starting Your Car

A faulty air filter can foul the spark plugs by covering them in a sooty residue. This inhibits the spark plugs from firing properly. In this situation, you may find it harder to start your car in the morning. 

Filthy-Looking Air Filter

You can visually inspect your air filter at any time. If you see large patches of filth and collected grime, it’s probably time for a new filter. 

Blinking Check Engine Light

The various problems caused by a clogged air filter will usually cause the check engine light to come alive on your instrument panel. While this light may not point directly to the air filter as the cause, an experienced technician will quickly diagnose and resolve the problem.

Regularly Replace Your Filter at Your Local Acura Dealership

Most drivers should replace their air filters once every year or two. If you frequently drive in conditions with an excess of dust or other airborne contaminants, you’re likely to need a new filter more frequently.  These kinds of conditions usually include heavy urban traffic or dusty off-road driving. 

Have your car’s air filter inspected and replaced today at Open Road Acura of Wayne. We’re a new and used luxury car dealership providing high-quality maintenance and repair services to drivers in Wayne, NJ, and also the nearby towns of Pompton Lakes, Fairfield, Totowa, and Kinnelon, along with residents of Passaic, Morris, and Essex County.

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