5 Signs Your Ford Needs a New Car Air Filter

 

The air filter plays a crucial role as the first line of defence for your car's engine. It's responsible for removing dust, dirt, and debris from the air that enters it. When it becomes clogged or dirty, it can lead to a decrease in gas mileage and potential damage to your engine. Recognising these signs early can help you avoid costly repairs. Here are five signs that indicate it's time to get a new air filter at your Ford dealer.

Signs You Need a New Car Air Filter at Your Ford Dealer

• Reduced Gas Mileage

A decreased fuel efficiency is a clear indicator of a dirty air filter in older carbureted vehicles. The carburettor is responsible for mixing air and fuel in the right proportions for combustion. When the engine doesn't receive sufficient fresh air, it compensates using more fuel to generate the required power. If you notice an increase in fuel consumption despite driving your usual routes, it's time to take your car to your local dealer for a check-up.

• Decrease in Engine Power

Every drive draws polluted air into the engine, and the air filter's job is to block debris, dust, grime, and insects. However, if the air filter becomes clogged from infrequent changes, it will restrict airflow to the engine. This leads to reduced engine performance, and your car might struggle with acceleration. If this happens, bring your vehicle to your local dealer for a thorough check-up and diagnosis.

• Misfiring Engine

A dirty air filter restricts airflow to the engine, causing an increase in unburnt gasoline that turns into soot residue. This soot can accumulate on spark plug tips, hindering their ability to produce a vital spark. Consequently, the engine may misfire, causing the car to jerk or idle roughly. If this occurs frequently, take your vehicle to your local dealer for a comprehensive inspection by a Ford Mechanic.

• Strange Engine Noises

When idling, a car should produce a steady hum. However, a clogged air filter can limit airflow to the combustion chamber, resulting in sputtering, popping, or coughing noises. Vibrations might accompany these odd sounds. If you hear such noises, contact your local dealer to schedule an appointment for a professional evaluation.

• The Air Filter Seems to Dirty

You can check the condition of your air filter by opening the hood and inspecting it. Most air filters are white and should appear clean when illuminated with a flashlight. A malfunctioning air filter will look caked, clogged, and dirty. If your air filter looks less than ideal, take your car to your local Ford service centre for a professional check-up.