Aug 25, 2023

The cabin air filter in your Ford freshens up your vehicle’s interior, while the engine air filter traps contaminants before they enter the engine. A worn filter, especially the engine air filter, can cause numerous issues, including decreasing the effectiveness of your catalytic converter. So watch out for these signs indicating you should get a new cabin and engine filter from your local Ford dealer.

photo of a clean and dirty air filter showcasing when a filter should get maintenanced
Image obtain from Shutterstock

1. Difficulty Starting the Vehicle

If your Ford is failing to start smoothly or requiring extended cranking for the engine to fire, it might have a worn engine air filter. Clogged or worn-out filters prevent air from mixing properly with the fuel in the combustion chamber.

This disrupts the air-fuel ratio and makes ignition difficult. Replacing the worn-out filter with new ones will improve airflow to the engine, allowing an easier and smoother startup.

2. Reduced Fuel Economy

A clean engine filter can maximize engine efficiency and fuel economy. When the engine air filter becomes clogged with contaminants, it restricts airflow to the engine. This forces the engine to work harder to draw in air, causing it to burn more fuel in the process. Replacing a clogged and worn filter with a new one promotes engine efficiency and improves your Ford’s fuel economy.

3. Ineffective Catalytic Converter

Cats are the emission control components that convert harmful exhaust fumes into less harmful emissions. However, for the converter to work efficiently, your engine must be running optimally. If the engine is misfiring or has a poor air-fuel ratio due to a worn filter, it can send high concentrations of harmful gases to the converter.

This can reduce the exhaust system’s efficiency and cause your Ford to fail the emissions test. If your Ford is producing black smoke from the exhaust, you should check your engine air filter. Replace the worn filter to protect the environment from harmful emissions.

4. Unpleasant Odors in the Cabin

Unpleasant odors in your Ford’s cabin signal a worn cabin filter. This filter is designed to trap pollutants before they can penetrate the car’s interior. If the filter wears out or becomes clogged, it won’t keep out nasty odors. Replace the worn air filter to improve the air quality in your Ford’s interior.

5. Poor Airflow in the AC and Heating System

If your Ford’s AC and heating system have weak airflow, it may be time to get a new cabin filter. Clogged filters prevent airflow through the climate control system. This strains the blower motor and restricts ventilation performance. Installing a new cabin filter will improve air circulation and boost the efficiency of your Ford’s HVAC system.

Air filters may be inexpensive components, but they play a key role in your Ford’s performance and comfort. Don’t wait to experience the above problems with your vehicle. Visit us at North County Ford to get new cabin and engine filters for your Ford.