As you drive, your car's engine needs a steady supply of fresh oxygen, which is drawn into the system and mixed with fuel inside the combustion chambers. At the same time, it's important that dust and dirt are kept out by the air filter. If this filter clogs up and restricts the airflow, your engine will start to malfunction. As soon as you first notice signs of a worn-out filter, head to your local GMC dealership for a new one.
7 Signs It's Time for a New GMC Engine Air Filter
Misfiring Spark Plugs
When less air is allowed to enter the engine by a clogged filter, the precise fuel-air balance is thrown off. This leads to excess fuel inside the cylinders, which will eventually foul the spark plugs, preventing them from firing properly. As your engine misfires, you'll feel it shudder and hear it sputter and cough alarmingly.
Rough Idling and Stalls
Misfiring typically becomes most obvious when the engine is put under strain by driving at high speeds or idling. When idling, especially, the coughing and vibrations will become more pronounced, and your engine might even stall.
Dropping Engine Power
With the system inhibited by a blocked filter, your engine will run less efficiently and produce less power. You may find it harder to gain a quick burst of speed when you need to overtake another vehicle.
Poor Fuel Efficiency
Your gas mileage will also suffer with a bad oxygen filter. As you drive, the fuel will diminish surprisingly quickly, increasing your cost of gas.
Smoke in the Exhaust Fumes
When an air-starved engine starts misfiring, the excess of fuel may find its way back into the exhaust system. Therein, this fuel causes trouble, potentially igniting, damaging the catalytic converter, and creating black smoke, which will pour out of the tailpipe.
Dirty Patches on the Filter
It's wise to check your engine's filter visually every now and then. Make sure to look in-between the filter's pleats. If you notice dark patches of clogged material, it's probably time to replace it.
Check Engine Light
The various engine and car problems that a faulty filter causes will usually trigger the check engine light to appear. Always respond quickly to this warning light, especially if you simultaneously notice the other symptoms outlined in this article.
Replace Your Oxygen Filter Yearly at Your GMC Dealership
No matter the apparent condition of your filter, it's best to replace it once a year, if not even more frequently. Keep the inflow of air consistently smooth and clean, and your engine will perform optimally for longer.
Visit Dorsey-Jones GMC in El Reno, OK, today to have your filter inspected and replaced. Whatever your automotive needs, we provide a one-stop shop that ensures you enjoy an excellent driving experience day by day.Â
