Over time, your car’s engine air filter will collect dirt and debris and even bugs, so you’ll have to get it replaced in order for your vehicle to keep running well.

A clean air filter will benefit your car’s fuel efficiency. And in some situations, it can help a vehicle’s fuel efficiency by as much as 14 percent. That might not sound like much, but depending on the size of your car, truck, van or SUV, it can end up saving you money every time you fill up.

Aside from that big benefit, a new air filter will also help your car’s acceleration and can lead to lower emissions, as well as overall improved engine performance. Even though vehicle maintenance schedules will vary depending on the make and model of your ride, it’s always a good idea to start with your owner’s manual first, to find out when you might need a new air filter.

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This is a good place to start, but your best option is to have a skilled service technician check it for you instead, and make recommendations on when to get it changed.

But how do you know when your vehicle needs a new filter? Look for symptoms that include a noticeable decrease in gas mileage or potential ignition problems. Most car manufacturers recommend replacing them every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, regardless of whether or not the air filter appears to be clean.

Vehicles that are driven in dusty environments or frequent stop and go conditions will need to have their air filters checked more frequently.

Because air filter replacements can be costly, you’ll want to steer clear of getting it changed too often. While this will never hurt your engine, it can unnecessarily impact your pocketbook.

On the other hand, not getting your filter changed can lead to severe engine damage later down the road. A filter’s job is to keep dust, dirt and debris from getting in the cylinders of an engine, allowing for the best performance.