What Does Your Air Filter Do and When Should You Replace It?

Your Mercedes-Benz has a lot of moving and non-moving parts. Following a service schedule and getting routine maintenance will help the overall health and longevity of your vehicle. However, there are some parts that are a little tougher to schedule, like the air filter. Keep reading to find out how important your air filter is to the health of your car, as well as when you should replace your air filter.

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How does your air filter work?

A car engine works by creating combustion between air and gasoline. The air reaches the engine through an air filter working to keep debris, dirt, bugs, and other contaminants out of your engine. Over time, as your air filter becomes dirtier and dirtier, less air is able to penetrate through the filter, affecting the performance of your engine.

What problems do a dirty air filter cause?

Because a dirty air filter restricts air to the engine, some performance issues can be expected without a new air filter. If your air filter needs replacing, you may notice reduced fuel economy, a tough-to-start and loud engine, reduced power, dark exhaust and the smell of gasoline. Your vehicle’s check engine light may also appear.

How often should you replace your air filter?

As a result of many variables, there isn’t necessarily a one-size-fits-all answer as to when you should replace your air filter. It is often said that air filters should be replaced every 10-15,000 miles. While that may be a good estimate, it may be too late for you. A good tip is to look at your air filter every time you get an oil change. You’ll be able to look at it to see if there is an unusual amount of debris or damage. This can help you decide when to replace the filter.

Make sure you are replacing your air filter with a genuine Mercedes-Benz replacement air filter. Mercedes-Benz Air Filters have a high-filtration efficiency that allows them to retain dust and dirt particles as small as a few thousandths of a millimeter, helping clean air to reach the engine combustion chambers – and thereby protecting the engine.

Want to learn more about genuine Mercedes-Benz parts? Stop in to the service center at Mercedes-Benz of Arrowhead in Peoria, AZ to speak with a member of our knowledgeable staff!