Anyone who owns a car knows that maintenance is key to keeping it running smoothly. You take it in for regular oil changes, tune-ups, and other services to keep it purring along the highway. But what about the things you can’t see? Your car’s fluids and filters are just as important to maintaining as the parts you can touch and feel. Let’s take a look at a few of the most important fluids and filters in your vehicle and how they help keep your car on the road.
Oil Filter
One of the most important filters in your car is the oil filter. Its job is to remove contaminants from the engine oil before it circulates through the engine. A clogged oil filter can cause all sorts of problems, from decreased fuel economy to increased engine wear. That’s why it’s important to change your oil filter according to your manufacturer’s recommendation-usually every 5,000 miles or so.
Air Filter
The air filter keeps contaminants out of the engine by trapping them in the filter material. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause all sorts of problems, including decreased fuel economy and increased emissions. Most air filters need to be replaced every 12,000 miles or so.
Fuel Filter
The fuel filter removes contaminants from the fuel before it enters the engine. A clogged fuel filter can cause decreased fuel economy, increased emissions, and even engine damage. Fuel filters usually need to be replaced every 30,000 miles or so.
As you can see, auto fluids and filters play a vital role in keeping your vehicle running smoothly. That’s why it’s important to change them according to your manufacturer’s recommendation-usually every 5,000 miles for oil filters, every 12,000 miles for air filters, and every 30,000 miles for fuel filters. By taking care of your car’s fluids and filters, you’ll help ensure that it stays on the road for years to come.