Any engine that runs by internal combustion of fuel requires air to operate. That’s because without air, specifically oxygen fuels like gasoline and diesel can’t burn and provide the explosive force to power the engine. In modern vehicles, the air must be cleaned before it gets sucked into the engine’s air intake plenum and combustion chambers. If not, you run the risk of dust, dirt and debris quickly fouling up the engine, causing poor performance and potentially shortening the life of the car. Foreign particles act as abrasives on the metal parts of an engine, wearing away at engine bearings, piston rings and cylinders. In addition, modern engines rely on a precise ratio of air to fuel. When the engine is starved of air, the fuel mix will run too high which in effect puts added strain on the engine. Fortunately, we have engine air filters which allow just the right amount of air through the vehicles engine, while trapping the grit that would do our engines harm. But even the best air filter can withstand only so much abuse from the outside environment. So how do you, as a car owner, know when it’s time to change the air filter? That all depends on the usage and what conditions the car is driven. If the car is used in dusty, harsh conditions (think of stop-and-go city driving with lots of construction going on), then more frequent air filter changes are in order. If, on the other hand, you happen to be a weekend driver only, you can get away with less frequent air filter replacements. Your best bet, of course, is to consult the owner’s manual. All of our customers here at AE Services in Sutton will receive a free reminder as to when the next service is required on their vehicle. For further details go to www.autoexpressservices.co.uk