The combustion process inside your car’s engine requires a constant inflow of fresh oxygen to mix with the fuel. Your car air filter prevents dust and contaminants from entering the engine, but a clogged air filter can restrict the airflow, which is bad news for the engine. If you notice the following warning signs, you may need to visit your nearest Chevy dealership promptly to have your air filter replaced.
Your Engine Starts Misfiring
When the fuel-air mixture inside your engine’s combustion chambers gets thrown out of balance by a clogged air filter, an excess of fuel begins to build up. This excess of unburned fuel can foul the spark plugs, causing them to misfire.
This will make your car jolt and make strange coughing and sputtering sounds. Misfiring usually becomes more obvious when you slow down or pause with the engine idling.
Your Engine Loses Power
As the cylinders become oxygen-starved by a clogged air filter, the combustion process worsens and the engine loses power. You may find it harder to accelerate when you need to cross a busy intersection or speed up when coming out of a curve.
Your Fuel Efficiency Falls
Without sufficient air to mix with the fuel and combust optimally, the car’s fuel efficiency will also decline. As a result, you’ll find yourself driving fewer and fewer miles on each full tank of gas.
Your Engine’s Slow To Start
An engine with a clogged air filter may also have trouble starting in the morning. As unburned fuel leaves a sooty residue on the spark plugs, the unreliable sparking process struggles to deliver the strong voltage needed to start up the engine.
Smoke Pours From Your Tailpipe
When an engine starts misfiring, unburned fuel can eventually begin to leak back into the exhaust system. Once there, the fuel can partially ignite as it runs back through the exhaust pipes. This would result in black smoke pouring out from the tailpipe.
Your Check Engine Light Turns On
The variety of engine problems caused by a clogged air filter will soon be picked up by the car’s sensors. You’ll then see the check engine light come to life on your dashboard.
Your Chevy Dealership Suggests a New Filter
During your regular vehicle checkups at your local dealership, the technician will inspect the condition of your air filter. When they notice the filter dirtying to the point where it might soon cause engine problems, they’ll recommend installing a new one.
Have your car’s air filter examined and replaced today at Bommarito Chevrolet South County. We have an extensive inventory of new and pre-owned vehicles and experienced, knowledgeable sales staff and technicians who can help resolve any vehicle-related needs you have.
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