You rely on your car to get you to the places you need to go to, which can be hindered if you have auto parts that need to be replaced. Your vehicle’s air filter prevents dust, debris, and other contaminants from entering the engine and slowing the system down. If your car isn’t operating as optimally as it once did, consider the following signs that you need to change your air filter.

Indications That Your Air Filter Needs to be Replaced

1. Reduced Gas Mileage

Your car’s engine relies on steady airflow to function correctly, which won’t happen if the filter is clogged. When debris is allowed to breach the filter and buildup on the gas tank, your engine will have to work harder, resulting in decreased mileage because of the excess fuel used. If you have to fill your gas tank up more frequently, changing the filter will allow air to reach the engine freely, ensuring that your car maintains proper gas mileage.

2. Trouble With Your Ignition 

Another common issue that occurs when the filter is dirty and doesn’t allow airflow to reach the engine is ignition problems. The lack of airflow can cause gunk to form on the spark plugs, which hinders them from sparking and starting the ignition. If you notice your ignition is slow or unresponsive, cleaning the spark plugs and changing the filter will prevent them from collecting debris.

3. Dark Smoke in Your Tail Pipe

Your engine relies on oxygen from the airflow to burn fuel properly. If your airflow is restricted because of a dirty filter, your engine will not receive sufficient oxygen, causing the fuel that wasn’t burned to exit through your tailpipe. If this occurs, you may notice a plume of dark, sooty smoke coming from your exhaust pipe. Changing the air filter can help this oxygen reach the engine and burn off the fuel, resulting in cleaner exhaust.

4. Decreased Horsepower

Your vehicle burns through more fuel when accelerating or going uphill because your engine has to work harder to produce adequate power for momentum. If your car struggles to accelerate when going uphill, a dirty filter may be to blame because it is blocking the airflow from transferring fuel to the engine. Changing your car’s filter enables air to be properly distributed to the engine, improving your horsepower and providing a smoother ride.

Whether it’s your air filter or another auto part that is impacting your vehicle’s performance, consult the team at Wholesale Auto Parts in Morehead, KY, for all your needs. In addition to an array of auto parts, this company also provides the high-quality oil and petroleum products you need to help your vehicle run smoothly. To learn more about their products, visit them online or call (606) 784-4147.