The air filter is a routine maintenance part of the car. It ensures the proper functioning of the engine and therefore of the car. The air filter is responsible for continuously purifying the air entering the engine compartment. This air is made up of airborne particles that can be very dangerous for the engine’s key components. The air filter may not be the most visible part of a car, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t important.

As a motorist, you need to make sure you keep an eye on the condition of the car’s air filter. It must be maintained in a rigorous manner. You should not neglect its regular replacement. Are you planning to change your car’s air filter soon? Do you know which model and brand to choose? In this article, you will find information about air filters and a list of the different brands currently available on the market.

The different impurities filtered

The air filter neutralizes the impurities suspended in the outside air. These impurities vary greatly depending on the environment in which your vehicle is located. For example, if you are driving in the countryside on roads with little traffic, there will be more plant debris and naturally occurring dust to filter out.

On the other hand, your car’s air filter will collect more pollution particles if you drive in the city or even sand if you are by the sea. As you can see, the impurities filtered are very different from one environment to another.

The role of the air filter

The role of the air filter is very important and should not be underestimated. This automotive part is systematically located at the entrance of the engine’s intake system. It is responsible for filtering all particles and impurities suspended in the outside air. Under no circumstances should these particles enter the engine compartment. They could damage key engine components and spoil the purity of the air-fuel mixture.

The three types of air filters

Not all air filters are created equal. There are three types to suit the different needs and preferences of the motorist involved. Budget is not a factor here, as the price is mostly under €15. The three types of air filters are the dry paper or cotton air filter, the wet foam air filter, and the oil bath air filter.

The dry paper or cotton air filter

As you probably already know or suspect, the dry air filter is the most commonly used. It offers motorists good value for money. The shape of a dry air filter can be round or rectangular.

In addition, there are two main compositions of dry air filters: paper and cotton. Regardless of the composition, the dry air filter is always located in an airtight housing under the hood. The paper filter is the least expensive air filter, while the cotton filter has a more sporty appearance, and your car’s air filter will collect more pollution particles if you drive in the city or even sand if you are by the sea. As you can see, the impurities filtered are very different from one environment to another.

The wet foam air filter

The wet foam air filter is less and less used on cars. As its name suggests, it is made of foam. The foam is continuously soaked in oil to effectively neutralize particles. The main advantage of the wet foam air filter is that it can be washed several times before being replaced.

The oil-bath air filter

The oil-bath air filter is probably not the filter you need according to Technology Wolf. Why not? Simply because it is specifically designed for cars that operate in extreme conditions. This includes snow, sand, dirt, plant debris, etc. Too much of these impurities would clog a dry air filter very quickly, making it completely unusable. In addition, the oil-bath air filter is able to withstand very high humidity levels.