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Jun 17, 2022
Profile view of a light blue 2023 Kia Soul parked on a curb. | Kia dealer in Conway, AR.

Your car engine air filter plays an important role in your engine’s overall performance and efficiency. Filters keep dirt and particles away from the engine, so if your car is not responsive, or you’re paying more at the pump, your air filter could be one of the causes. Check out these signs that you may need to replace your car air filter at your Kia dealer.


Sluggish Engine

A sluggish engine can be a real pain, especially when you’re trying to get somewhere in a hurry. If your engine is sluggish or having trouble accelerating, the first thing you should check is the air filter. If it’s dirty, it can restrict airflow to the engine and cause it to run less efficiently.  

The air filter helps block debris from entering a car’s engine. A dirty or damaged filter will require the engine to work harder, reducing efficiency and causing sluggishness and declining fuel economy. In addition, a clogged filter can cause an engine to overheat, increasing the risk of significant damage.


Trouble Starting Your Car

If you have trouble starting your car, it may be due to a problem with the air filter. Since the air filter is responsible for providing clean air to the engine, it can cause the engine to misfire or run rough if it is dirty or clogged.

If you suspect that your air filter may be the problem, you can perform a visual check on it yourself. A new air filter is usually white or off-white, but if your filter is discolored, torn, or you see dirt on it, it’s time to bring your car in for a replacement.


Your Gas Mileage Has Decreased

If your gas mileage has decreased, this is also a sign of a potential air filter problem. Dirty air filters dramatically reduce fuel efficiency, causing the engine to work harder and use more gas. So if you’re paying more at the pump, you may want to check out the condition of your filters.


You Smell Gas When You Start the Car

Unburned fuel is often to blame for gas smells, and one of the best ways to fix this is to replace your engine air filter. If you smell gas, especially when you start the car, it’s best to bring your vehicle to the service department.

The filter, once replaced, will improve efficiency and save money on gas. If it turns out your problem is not the filter, we’ll diagnose the issue and help you get your vehicle back on track.


You’re Not Sure When Your Filter Was Last Replaced

If it’s been a while since you’ve had an oil change and other car maintenance, you’re likely due to replace your air filter. Usually, manufacturers recommend replacing an air filter every 15,000-30,000 miles. Check your manual for your specific vehicle or stop in the service department, and we’d be happy to check your service record.

Replacing your car engine air filter is a low-cost way to ensure your car stays in tip-top shape and runs efficiently. Visit Crain Kia of Conway, and we’ll be happy to inspect your vehicle. We’ll let you know if there is a problem and get you back on the road as soon as possible.

Image via Kia.