As an expert in the automotive industry, I have encountered many questions about car air filters. One of the most common questions is why they are so expensive. The truth is, there are several factors that contribute to the cost of air filters.First and foremost, it's important to understand that not all air filters are created equal. Expensive air filters often use higher quality materials, such as metal or plastic, which can drive up the cost.
On the other hand, cheaper air filters are made from lower-quality materials and may need to be replaced more frequently. When it comes to purchasing an air filter, it's important to consider your needs. If you are looking for a cheap option that needs to be replaced frequently, then a low-quality filter may be the best choice for you. However, if you want a filter that will last longer and provide better performance, then investing in a higher-quality filter may be worth the cost. Another factor that can affect the cost of air filters is where you purchase them. Factory air filters are typically more affordable as they are made from lower-priced materials.
However, these filters may not be able to maintain your engine for a long time. On the other hand, high-performance filters can be very expensive, as they are made of high-quality materials that are cheaper. If you are servicing your vehicle at a repair shop or dealer, the technician may recommend replacing the cabin air filter. This is because a dirty filter cannot do its job properly and filter out contaminants, which can lead to engine damage over time. Therefore, it's essential to replace your car's filter regularly. You may be surprised to see how dirty your filter can get after just a few months of use.
It can be covered in soot, soil, leaves, twigs, and other debris, which confirms the need for a replacement. In fact, I conducted a test with an old paper filter that was cleaned with air (compressor) and an old oil filter of the same brand. The results were clear - the air filter was significantly dirtier and needed to be replaced. Some car owners may wonder if it's worth investing in a high-performance air filter. After all, they are essentially just a folded sheet of cardboard.
However, there are some benefits to using these filters. For example, an independent test of a Subaru Crosstrek found that a performance filter added 4 horsepower (just over 2%) compared to an original equipment filter. It also improved acceleration from 20 to 60 mph by 0.2 seconds, which may not seem like much but can make a difference in certain driving situations. On the other hand, a K&N air filter installed on my Kawasaki Concours not only gave me a cold growl when accelerating, but I also noticed a smoother idling and a small increase in maximum speed performance above 7,000 rpm. This may not be noticeable in daily driving, but for some car enthusiasts, it can make all the difference. When it comes to replacing your air filter, it's important to follow the recommendations in your car owner's manual.
The recommended mileage marks for changing the cabin air filter may vary depending on the type of vehicle and the manufacturer. Some car owners who prefer high-performance filters argue that it's better to use high-flow filters than low-quality filters. This is especially true for those who drive in congested urban areas or places with poor air quality. A study has shown that vehicles powered by clean air filters have improved acceleration times by 6 to 11 percent. However, it's worth noting that some high-performance filters require additional maintenance. For example, some filters need to be sprayed with oil, which can be a hassle for some car owners.
It's important to consider the maintenance requirements of a filter before making a purchase. Lastly, it's important to understand the different types of air filters available. High-performance air filters are classified as “vehicle specific” or “universal fit” to indicate their fit. Standard air filters are usually made of paper, while some are made of different materials such as cotton and foam. These different materials can also affect the cost of the filter.