Ignition Problems? How to Know When Your Air Filter Needs to be Replaced

Many people don’t realize how important an air filter is to their car. When it comes to your Renault, this car part serves two purposes. It:

• Lets clean air enter the engine

 

• Prevents dust and debris from entering the engine with that air

How does this help? Clean air is essential to an engine’s operation. For every 3.8 litres of fuel your engine burns, it needs 37,854 litres of fresh, clean air. This helps keep the engine running like it should.

 

What Happens When an Air Filter Becomes Dirty

When these Renault parts become dirty, it’s much harder for air to enter the engine. Because of this, the engine isn’t able to do its job the way it needs to. As a result, you’ll experience several problems while driving. Some symptoms of a dirty air filter include:

• Poor fuel mileage

 

• Fouled spark plugs that lead to ignition issues

 

• Higher emissions

 

• Issues with emissions control systems within the car

 

• Check engine light

 

• Rough idle

 

• Starting issues

 

• Engine misfires

 

Many of these issues are the result of too much fuel and not enough air. When there is a higher mixture of fuel to air than the engine requires, deposits often form on Renault parts under the bonnet, particularly on the spark plugs. These deposits can cause the spark plugs to wear down quickly before their time.

A dirty or clogged air filter can cause a number of issues, some of which are commonly experienced with other failing car parts as well. Make sure this inexpensive and quick change is at the top of your list when you begin having issues with the way your car is driving. While a starting issue may be the battery, ignition system or alternator, it could also possibly be air filter needing to be replaced. Be thorough in your inspection so you know exactly what needs to be done. If you’re not sure what to do or where to start, consult a professional for assistance.

 

Inspecting Your Air Filter

The first step to knowing when an air filter needs to be replaced is when you inspect it. This should occur each time you maintain your vehicle, but it doesn’t always happen that way. Many car owners forget this small car part and the important role it plays in the operation of the Renault. It should be examined, however, each time you check your oil.

Upon inspection, it is often easy to tell if an air filter needs to be replaced. A new filter will appear off-white or white. If you inspect the filter in your car and it is dark because it is full of debris or dirt, this means it needs to be replaced.

Don’t let sight alone prevent you from changing your air filter. Dust and pollen are often so miniscule that you can’t see them clogging up the filter and preventing air from entering the engine. It’s for that reason you should change the air filter, regardless of appearance, every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. If you live in and town where frequent stops and starts are required, or along a dusty road, changing your air filter more often may be necessary. If you experience any of the symptoms above, changing your air filter is a quick and inexpensive fix as well.

 

Benefits of Changing Your Air Filter

Changing this car part on a regular basis can result in a number of much-needed benefits for your car and your pocket book, including:

 

• Improved Fuel Efficiency- There have been a number of studies performed to assess the important of a clean air filter. Many have found that changing out a dirty air filter for a clean one can improve fuel efficiency by up to 14 percent. Acceleration also increases by six to 11 percent. This is because it improves air flow to the engine and increases the engine’s ability to perform more easily.

 

• Lower Emissions- The emission control systems in your Renault are directly affected by the amount of air flowing into the engine because of the altered air-fuel mixture. Not only does changing your air filter improve your engine’s ability to function correctly, thereby improving driving performance, but it also lowers emissions and keeps your emission control systems operating the way they should.

 

• Longer Engine Life- Air filters are designed to trap pollen, dirt and dust. Because of this, they play an important role in the life of your engine. They are able to block all of these things from entering the engine and damaging important Renault parts like pistons and cylinders. While pollen may seem too small to do much damage, the parts within your engine are sensitive and can be harmed by particles as small as a grain of salt.

 

• Inexpensive- Despite their importance, these car parts are inexpensive to purchase and quick to install. With a little experience, you may even be able to install one by yourself. To ensure things go as smoothly as possible, always make sure to buy an air filter made specifically for your particular make and model of vehicle.

 

Avoid Filter Scams

One of the best ways to remember to change your air filter is to have it inspected by a mechanic when you get your oil changed. However, be careful not to fall for common scams practiced by deceitful mechanics. Your air filter shouldn’t need changed every single time your oil does. Every 12,000 miles to 15,000 miles is fine. Some manufacturers even recommend longer. Purchasing an air filter each time you get your oil changed is most likely a waste of money. Keep in mind that a little dirt on the filter is perfectly normal and doesn’t necessarily mean it has become too clogged to function correctly. If you’re not sure, get a second opinion from another mechanic prior to making the purchase.

Do you check your air filter often? This car part plays an important role in the life and efficiency of your engine. Make sure you’re taking care of it by using these tips.