How to Buy a Good Quality Air Filter

The air filter is a vital component of the car’s engine and fuel system. Without it, dust, debris, and other particles would make their way through the fuel system and eventually ruin the engine.

The air filter is typically located up at the front of the engine compartment, inside the cold air collector box, it shouldn’t be hard to find. Some cars, like those with carburetors, have a permanent filter which should be cleaned according to the owner’s manual.

Not all air filters are created equal. You want a durable filter that won’t need to be cleaned or changed too often, but on the other hand this is one of the more affordable parts to change out so there’s no need to go totally overboard unless you’re looking for a performance level filter.

How to make sure you’re getting a good quality air filter:

  • Decide between paper, foam, or cloth.

    • Paper - is affordable, and is the kind of air filter your car likely came with right off the assembly line. They are made of sturdy, industrial paper, folded in an accordion pattern in order to best trap dirt and debris. They are cheap but need to be replaced frequently.
    • Foam - specifically polyurethane foam filters soaked in oil are used in off-road vehicles because they’re very effective. They are reusable and sturdy but eventually break down and can clog up the engine.
    • Cloth – usually cotton, is also soaked in oil for use in air filters, and they increase the air intake in race car engines. They’re pricey though because they’re considered to be a performance upgrade.
  • Choose aftermarket or OEM. This is one part that doesn’t carry a huge financial risk when choosing one over the other. Aftermarket filters offer a wide variety of options, which means you can customize your performance preferences. And although aftermarket parts can bring a car’s value down, in the case of air filters it’s an easy thing to switch to OEM when you prepare to sell your vehicle.

  • Choose a brand. The better-known brands are a safer bet when it comes to filters. Do your research and pick one that has a good reputation.

Changing your car’s air filter is, in most cases, a simple, affordable, straight-forward process that can be accomplished by even the most inexperienced car owner.

YourMechanic supplies top-quality air filters to our certified mobile technicians. We can also install a air filter that you've purchased. Click here to get a quote and more information on air filter replacement..


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William

35 years of experience
731 reviews
William
35 years of experience
Honda Accord L4-2.4L - Air Filter - Peoria, Arizona
William has always been professional and timely. He answers all of my questions and is very knowledgeable!
Ford Flex - Air Filter - Peoria, Arizona
William was timely, professional, and accommodating. He made getting my car fixed very easy and came to my work.

Eliud

24 years of experience
312 reviews
Eliud
24 years of experience
Plymouth Grand Voyager V6-3.3L - Air Filter - Lawrenceville, Georgia
Eliud is very professional, patient, respectful, knowledgeable and courteous. We would certainly request his services again if needed and would also inform my associates about him. Kenneth Francis.
Honda Civic - Air Filter - Lawrenceville, Georgia
Eliud has now completed two services on my car and I have been very pleased! He is on time and an excellent mechanic!!

Royal

17 years of experience
103 reviews
Royal
17 years of experience
Toyota Corolla L4-1.8L - Air Filter - San Antonio, Texas
Royal was early, thorough and corteous. He make some strong helpful recommendations that I'll hire him to do later.

Patrick

34 years of experience
1579 reviews
Patrick
34 years of experience
Toyota Camry L4-2.5L - Air Filter - Austin, Texas
Patrick shows up on time and works fast. He is thorough gives excellent advice. He’s pleasant and takes time to answer questions. I’ve used him many times and will continue to do so.

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