Filters

Can an Aftermarket Filter boost Performance?

There are numerous parts that keep your vehicle working properly, and one that is often overlooked is the air filter. It's important to keep your air filter changed regularly in order to allow the motor to work properly. Failure to change your car air filter regularly could lead to it being blocked and clogged, which will restrict air flow into the engine and lead to numerous performance issues.

What Type Of Air Filters Are Available To Me?

There exist a wide variety of air filter designs including flat, rectangular filters, canister style filters, ring filters, and more manufactured by AFE, K&N, Airaid, and more. Some may be washable for multiple uses while others will need to be changed regularly.

There are several different air filters available, and taking a closer look at the different options will make it easy for you to select the right one. Not only do you need to consider the overall level of performance and the shape or style, but the design is important as well.

Performance Filters

Performance filters like those from K&N are generally designed to deliver the highest level of performance possible. Look for universal filters that will fit no matter the angle or offset diameter of your vehicle's air intake. These filters generally feature rubber flanges instead of for vibration absorption, and will work well for almost any type of application including vehicles, generators, recreational vehicles, and more. They're available in numerous shapes and in different sizes, and deliver the top level performance others won't.

Breather Filters

These filters are made to clamp onto a tube or to be remotely mounted with hoses and clamps. They'll often feature chrome or rubber craps to improve the overall look of the filter, and will maximize engine air flow. They're fully washable and completely reusable in most cases, which means they're an investment that will pay off for some time.

Oil-Free Intake Filter

With a slightly different design, this filter usually features polyurethane construction on all sides and features tall pleats for better dust holding capacity. It's a model that is reusable and washable, and increases performance in a significant way.

You'll also want to pay attention to the design of the filters and whether or not they're intended to be washable, lifetime filters or simply used as replacement filters. Here's a quick look at the two options.

Washable Lifetime Filters

As the name suggests, these are filters that are made from much more durable materials and are designed to last for years. They are fully washable, which means that instead of regularly purchasing a new air filter you can remove them, wash them to remove dust, dirt, and debris, and then replace them. They'll cost more, but will last longer and deliver better performance in most cases.

Replacement Filters

These are less expensive than washable filters, but made from less durable material. Once they are clogged with dust and debris, you'll need to remove and replace them completely. Generally, the materials used in the filter construction of these aren't as high-quality as those in other, more durable filters.