Aftermarket air filters can lead to increases in engine performance and an increase in fuel mileage rating. However, these may be more noticeable on older cars, where the general air intake is formatted differently than newer models. For newer models, some “performance” air filters can only make a negligible difference (although this varies, of course, depending on the car model and type of air filter). Consulting with an automotive professional about air filter options is recommended.
A dirty air filter reduces the amount of air supplied to the engine, leading to an increase in unburned fuel that becomes soot residue. This soot can build up on the tips of the spark plugs, making them unable to produce a proper spark. As a result, the car may move sharply, idle, and in some cases, the engine may fail. When taking your Audi for service or repair of your car, a mechanic will pay attention to the condition of your air filter and recommend a change when the time is right or advise you that this change will need to be made in the near future.
To ensure your car's engine operates at its best, make sure its filtration systems are in good condition (oil filter systems are another important one to monitor). When there is an inadequate air supply, your car's engine makes up for the deficit with too much fuel (known as “running rich”). Every car engine has a combustion chamber, and this chamber requires air to generate adequate power to run your car's engine. In addition, a dirty air filter can subtly affect the engine power of your Audi, including torque, power and acceleration.
This is because the filter tends to accumulate a large amount of dust, debris, and other blockages as it does its job. However, you can clean reusable and foam filters with specific applications and you must dry them before replacing them. Restricted air supply from a dirty air filter causes unburned fuel to leave the engine as soot residue. Therefore, it is important to schedule regular and thorough car checks at regular intervals to make sure your air filter is fresh.
Inadequate air supply can cause carbon deposits, the by-product of combustion, to build up in the engine and the engine check light to go out. As noted above, inadequate air in the engine can cause incomplete combustion of fuel in the combustion chamber. If you're still not sure if it needs to be replaced, remove the filter and observe it during the day or use a flashlight to see how clogged it is. Replacing the air filter is actually one of the easiest DIY tasks you can perform on your vehicle; 95% of people should be able to change it on their own.
However, very often, the inner layers of filter paper within the air cleaner can have dust and debris that is not visible even in bright light. Air filters are crucial to the performance of your car and if not maintained in proper repair, it can cause setbacks to its longevity. Similarly, vehicle air filters block larger particles from entering the engine intake, allowing only clean air into it.
