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Can a Dirty Air Filter Damage Engine?

The air filter captures dust, pollen and other pollutants in the air entering the engine.
December 29, 2023

The engines of our vehicles operate efficiently by taking in fresh air. However, this clean air passes through an important element such as the air filter. The air filter captures dust, pollen and other pollutants in the air entering the engine. This filter not only provides clean air but also protects your engine. However, not replacing the air filter regularly or neglecting to maintain it can have serious adverse effects on your engine. Here's more information about the potential damage a dirty air filter can do to your engine:

Poor Performance and Power Loss

A dirty air filter can restrict your engine's air intake. If the engine receives less air, it may cause incomplete combustion. This leads to power loss and poor performance. The vehicle feels the need to give more gas and this reduces fuel efficiency.

Increase in Fuel Consumption

A dirty air filter causes the engine to consume more fuel. While the engine is getting insufficient air, it tries to produce the necessary power by using more fuel. This increased fuel consumption hurts your wallet and also increases environmental impact.

Damage to Cylinders and Valves

The introduction of dirty air into the engine can have potentially harmful effects on the cylinders and valves. Contaminants can adhere to these components and accumulate over time. This buildup can cause valves to leak or cylinders to wear out, requiring expensive repairs.

Damage to Cylinder Walls

Dirty air can also damage cylinder walls. This damage can cause the engine to use more oil. Additionally, contaminants adhering to the cylinder walls can enter the engine's oil system, increasing contamination of the oil.

Increase in Exhaust Emissions

A dirty air filter can affect the engine's combustion process, which can increase exhaust emissions. More pollutants are released into the atmosphere, which harms the environment and may also cause you to fail to comply with emission regulations.

As a leading filter company in Turkey, Şampiyon Filter produces high quality oil, fuel, air and hydraulic filters to automotive, agricultural, business machinery and commercial bus and truck groups in accordance with national and international standards.