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An automobile engine functions a lot like a big air pump. The pistons and valves work together to draw in and expel air and fuel as the engine assembly spins round and round. Add spark to this process and the internal combustion equation is complete. It is crucial that the volumes of air entering the engine be as clean as possible. It is also important that this flow of air not be restricted in any way. A clean air filter not only scrubs the incoming air of harmful particulates, it also allows the incoming air to flow freely. A dirty and clogged air filter not only loses its ability to clean incoming air, but also offers a restriction to incoming flow. The good news is that changing an air filter is easy and inexpensive.
The first step to changing the air filter is to find it. Before opening the hood open the owner's manual and find the page that reveals locations of under hood service points. There will be an illustration that makes it easy to find where the air filter box is. If there is no owner's manual, open the hood and look for either a football-sized box opposite the battery or large circular unit or flat panel box atop the engine. Note locations and types of fasteners, clips, and hold downs before removing anything. Take care in not damaging the air flow sensor. These are often located near or in the air box. If locating the air filter still proves elusive an Advance Auto Parts professional can assist in finding the air box and selecting the right air filter.
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