The Ultimate Air Filter Buying Guide

1 Which Type Of Air Filter Should I Choose?

The air filters installed in your vehicle can make a huge difference in its performance. The job of keeping dirt and other unwanted material out of the engine falls to the humble engine air filter. A vehicle that has a clean and exact fit air filter enhances fuel economy, improvises engine health, boosts acceleration, and lowers emissions. Below are the different air filters used in vehicles 

Paper Air Filters

Gauze Air Filters

Foam Air Filters

Top Picks For Air Filters

2 What Are The Factors I Should Consider When Buying An Air Filter?

A. Where You Drive

• Dusty Environments – If you are an off-road enthusiast looking for some extra protection from dusty environments, then foam air filters are an ideal choice. The only thing you will have to take care of is replacing the oil on a regular basis so it lasts the lifetime of the vehicle. 

• Daily Commuters – If you are the one who takes your vehicle for regular servicing and drives back and forth from the office daily, then paper air filters are a good and affordable choice. You don’t have to worry much as the servicing takes care of the air filter replacement. But if you want to save bucks in the long run and want to forget about replacing air filters on a regular basis then opt for cotton gauze air filters that last a very long time and provide enhanced engine performance as well but for a premium initial price. 

B. Price

Paper air filters are an affordable and cost-effective solution to air filters but the low cost comes at the expense of poorer performance and shorter lifespan compared to the other types. Foam and cotton air filters are quite expensive but their long-lasting nature means you will require much fewer replacements which can become more economical in the long run. Some foam air filters can even last the lifetime of the vehicle. Cotton air filters are washable and some performance cotton filters can significantly boost engine efficiency and horsepower by allowing a larger volume of air through to the engine. 

So the price difference between expensive alternatives can be justified by their benefits but affordable filters provide a good bang for their buck. 

C. Performance Filters Vs Standard Filters

Performance cotton gauze air filters are a great choice for spirited drivers who wish to get the best for their vehicles. These filters can increase engine horsepower by as much as 10hp – that is enough to make your drive to the office way more enjoyable. Apart from the performance advantages, cotton filters are washable and reusable which makes them last much longer than standard paper filters. If you are in need of more performance from the vehicle or need hassle-free service from your air filter, then performance cotton air filters are an ideal option.

So the price difference between expensive alternatives can be justified by their benefits but affordable filters provide a good bang for their buck. 

3 Which Top Brand Air Filter Should I Choose?

Mann Air Filter

Soot, fine particles, pollen and many other contaminants are still available on buildings, on farms and, yes, every kilometre you travel. If the air filter is not in perfect shape or unconditional, dirt particles may penetrate the combustion chamber, develop markings on the pistons and cause early wear of the engine. In the case of insufficient filtration, even electrical components such as sensors on the track between the air intake and the combustion chamber could cause loss and could be lost in the worst condition. Naturally, all this is easy to overcome.

Part Numbers: C35-148, C27-006, and more. 

Features

A. Tough Performer

Thanks to the excellent quality workmanship in original equipment, MANN-FILTER air filters are highly durable and preserve their form. Except for the heavy mechanical loads, for instance, in confined locations or areas that are difficult to enter, the filter elements are easy to fit. They effectively and accurately filter the air intake to ensure the optimal mixture of the air-fuel–a critical requirement for sustained motor performance.

B. Clean Solution

Most air filters from MANN-FILTER can be totally incinerated and can thus be safely disposed of.

C. Flame-Retardant

If the air filter is not handled with a flame retardant impregnation, glowing cigarettes may pose a grave danger. This special impregnation is insoluble in water and is already present in numerous MANN-FILTER air filters. If warm ash is consumed in the air intake, it reliably stops the air filter from exploding into flames. They are valuable protection for commercial vehicles that are capital intensive.

D. In Top Shape

MANN-FILTER provides a range of items with hundreds of shapes that satisfy growing demands even in confined areas, whether trapezoidal or oval-conic or stepped.

E. High Performance In A Compact Size

Micro-grade G reflects MANN-FILTER’s desire for a more spatially efficient solution, greater dust capability and long operating intervals in the automotive industry. The gradient structure of the cellulose fibre filter medium is up to 20% higher than the paper filters comparable with the regular cellulose filter media.

F. Stable Performance

The stabilizing technology of a spiral wound strap eliminates not only weight but also expands lifespan and increases water rigidity. The technology is being pioneered steadily by growing numbers of MANN-FILTER air filter

F. STABLE PERFORMANCE

The stabilising technology of a spiral wound strap eliminates not only weight but also expands lifespan and increases water rigidity. The technology is being pioneered steadily by growing numbers of MANN-FILTER air filters.

Advantages of MANN-FILTER Air Filters

• Functional reliability over the entire operation interval
• High efficiency of dirt removal and low flow resistance
• Low flow resistance
• 100 per cent waterproofing in the long run
• Special impregnation of paper produces very robust plates.
• Engine, airflow metres and other critical sections are optimally secured.
• Extreme resistance to flame due to certain impregnations

For more information and detailed product lines, visit our Mann Filter- Air filter Section.

Wix Air Filter

I. Standard Air Filters

An efficient air filter can avoid the absorption of microscopic airborne particles (such as pollen, spores, or asphalt). Clean air quality is essential for the proper operation of the engine. It also promotes the efficiency of the engine, torque and promotes fuel consumption. The pollution also increases the harm caused to piston rings, bushings, and cylinders.

Part Numbers: 46573, 42725, WA10335, and more.

Features:

A. Flame Retardant Filter Medium

All WIX filters are in line with the F1 or S1, so the fire can not spread, rather it extinguishes the flames. They protect passengers against fire in case of sucking of the air supply system, e.g. ignition source.

B. Durable And Airtight Filter Seals

We use the polyurethane mixture to produce seals that are characterized by their unique elasticity and compressive strength at high temperatures. WIX filters remain airtight except under certain working environments.

C. Pleats Stabilized By Ribs

Adjacent WIX Filters do not cling to each other, since special ribs stabilize them. Owing to its uniformly dispersed distribution, filtration occurs on the entire medium surface and maximizes cleanliness.

D. Modern Filter Media

The current filter media in WIX Filters air filter ensure a filtration quality of 99,9 percent for particles of only a few microns based on cellulose or synthetic fiber. Each filter has its media chosen and is consistent with the vehicle manufacturers’ specifications.

E. Synthetic Non-Woven Panel Filters

Synthetic non-woven have exceptionally fine filtration characteristics. The absorption of cellulose is higher but less rigid. Therefore, placing the filter medium into a plastic frame developed by injection solves the problem of rigidity. An external reinforcement is a special mesh that defends against damage during service. This approach provides proper engine safety and does not distort the filter under tough operating conditions.

F. Panel Filters With Cellulose Bloating Paper

Because of the various sizes and shapes of these filters, significant consideration must be paid to ensuring that each filter is subject to the strain of regular driving conditions so that the completeness of each filter is assured by means of chosen fillers, stabilizers, or a retaining net for the metal, to stabilize the filters.

G. Round Filters

The filter may have the form of an oval ring or a cylindrical ring. But the space for the air intake system is considerably reduced in today’s passenger cars. Big circular and complex-built filters are also primarily equipped for luxury high-capacity vehicles. Carmakers use them rarely.

II. Heavy-Duty Filters

Machines with heavy-duty rarely run in sterile conditions. In addition, they consume a lot of environmental pollutants. WIX Filters offers efficient engine abrasion safety.

Features:

A. Pleats With Ribs

This technology guarantees that pleats are spread uniformly, thus ensuring an acceptable distribution of the airflow over the whole filter surface.

B. Pleat-Stabilizing Fingers

A stabilization that keeps the pleats from breaking down and lacking stability.

C. High-Quality Filter Material

They stop up to 99.9 percent of the pollution and guarantee a full life of the engine under engine specifications.

D. Silicone Seals

Seals of this type are most commonly found in WIX filters and are resistant to external pressures (temperature and vibration); they will not crumble, will not get difficult over time, and, above all, ensure the right pressure. They don’t deform because of their elasticity.

E. Metal Bottom Caps With A Handle

To remove and install the filters easily. They are used in specific models.

F. Air Flow Indicator

    Difficult environments under which the machinery works (such as humidity, polluted atmosphere, air) can minimize air filter quality. The airflow indicator will determine whether the filter functions properly. The indicator guarantees optimized air filter maintenance.

For more information and detailed product lines, visit our WIX- Air filter Section.

K&N Engineering Air Filters

K&N® washable, reusable High-Flow Air Filters ™ uses a state-of-the-art design of layered, oiled cotton media engineered to boost airflow and trap contaminants, and are built to provide a boost in horsepower. Each air filter is reusable, is planned for the entire lifetime, and is supported in the K&N 10 / Million Mile Limited Warranty. K&N replacement filters are designed to conveniently fit into your airbox. Modify today and get superior airflow and top efficiency in the most successful product of K&N!

Part Numbers: 33-2462, PSA2385, 33-5001, and more

Benefits:

• Original red air filter since 1969.
• Increases horsepower.
• Easily washable and reusable.
• Increases the performance of the vehicle.
• Protects your vehicle’s engine.
• Minimizes waste.
• Easy to install. 

For more information and detailed product lines, visit our K & N Engineering – Air Filter Section.

Fram Air Filter

A. Extra Guard Air

Buy Fram Air Filters Now

Part Numbers: CA10488, CA10491, CA8755A, and more.

Features:

• If the air filter is clean, it avoids the dust and dirt from entering the engine and improves airflow. 
• The particles that could damage the engine can be prevented from entering in and the engine wear may be increased.
• Dirty air filters limit airflow which contributes to reduced acceleration and horsepower and reduces overall efficiency.

B. Tough Guard

• Planned and designed to catch and retain more dirt with advanced features.
• Pre-oiled media engineered to attract and trap finer dirt and dust particles improve the potential for dirt preservation. Enhances the potential of holding dirt.
• Due to the presence of a heavier filter screen that extends into the urethene you can achieve increased durability, provides greater integrity and minimizes the likelihood of collapse and tearing while driving through tough conditions.
• For continuous airflow and less restriction, the pleat-lock glue bead feature permits the pleats to lock into position, so that it can help with the overall performance of the engine. 

C. FRAM Uultra® Premium Air Filter

• Protection from dust, dirt, and other particles.
• The proprietary filter media captures double the dirt, including small dirt particles which cannot be captured by regular air filters.
• Due to the presence of a heavier filter screen you can achieve increased durability and provide greater filter integrity. 
• For continuous airflow and less restriction, the pleat-lock glue bead feature permits the pleats to lock into position, so that it can help with the overall performance of the filter. 
• A new FRAM Ultra Premium Air Filter will boost your vehicle’s power and acceleration when a blocked engine air filter is replaced at recommended OE change intervals.

For more information and detailed product lines, visit our FRAM Filters – Air Filter Section.

Beck/Arnley Air Filters

Part Numbers: 042-1700, 042-1628, 042-1620, and more.

Features:

• Matches OE form, fit, and function.
• To regulate proper airflow, they are made from high-quality fiber materials.
• Constructed for durability.
• Designed to withstand under-hood conditions.
• Application is designed for specific vehicles.

For more information and detailed product lines, visit our Beck/Arnley Air Filter Section.

Purezone Air Filters

Part Numbers: 9-42487, 9-49737, and more.

Key Features

• Give good motor protection throughout the traditional air filter change interval to normal everyday driving conditions.
• Designed in the media area to match the OES.
• Air Filter Laboratory Tests of 97.5% Minimum efficiency according to ISO 5011.

For more information and detailed product lines, visit our Purezone – Air Filter Section.

Champion Air Filters

The features are as follows:

• Horsepower (HP) will be restored.
• Superior protection for improved engine performance
• Up to 99% of air contaminants are removed by premium media.
• Improved design without restricting airflow for maximum filtration.

4 Why Do I Need An Air Filter?

For maximum vehicle power and better fuel economy, the vehicle owner has to keep a close eye on the conditions of the air filter and replace them as needed. Here are a few benefits of air filters:

A. Better Fuel Efficiency

A dirty or damaged air filter limits the amount of air flowing into your car’s engine, making it work harder and, therefore, using more fuel. The amount of air that flows through the engine will eventually increase when you replace the old air filter. You can also save money at the pump if there is more airflow into the engine as the fuel will combust more efficiently. 

B. Longevity Of The Engine

To keep the engine air cleaner, you need an air filter that is functioning properly. A particle as small as a grain of salt can get through a damaged air filter and do a lot of damage to internal engine parts, such as cylinders and pistons, which can be very expensive to repair. That’s why regularly replacing your air filter is very important as it considerably increases the life of the engine. 

C. Fewer Emissions

Dirty or damaged air filters reduce the airflow to the engine, changing your car’s air-fuel balance. This imbalance can pollute spark plugs, causing the engine to miss or rough idle; increase engine depositions, and cause the ‘Service Engine’ light to turn on.  If the airflow into the engine is clean, then the dust, dirt, mud, and other particles will not get caught in the combustion process resulting in the cleaner exhaust.

5 When Should I Replace My Air Filter?

To achieve maximum performance and optimal gas mileage, air filters have to be cleaned and changed annually. Most auto-manufacturers will recommend changing the air filters after every 19,000kms (approximately) or 1 year depending on the vehicle make, model, and how you drive. But if you are driving in dusty areas, or if your car faces a lot of stress, then get them checked with a professional mechanic more often.

How to Know What Air Filter to Buy?

To choose the right air filter, you should consider the size of your HVAC system, the type of filter, and the minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV). The MERV rating ranges from 1 to 20, with higher numbers indicating better filtration. You should also replace your filter every three to 12 months of use, depending on the size of the filter.

Consumer Reports provides a comprehensive guide on how to choose the right air filter for your home. They suggest that you should select the right size, know the different types of home air filters, check the MERV rating, and know how often you should change your filter. When buying new air filters, disregard any that you can easily see through. Pleated filters have larger surface areas to trap more dirt.

6 What Are The Warning Signs Of A Bad Air Filter?

As the air filters have a massive impact on the proper functioning of the vehicle, it is highly essential that you replace them in a timely manner. A dirty or clogged air filter can even lead to driveability issues. Following are some symptoms that you may notice if you don’t replace your air filter at the suggested intervals.

A. Reduced Fuel Economy A very clear sign of a dirty or damaged air filter is the decrease in fuel economy. If the air filter is damaged or clogged, it will restrict the airflow which lowers the oxygen in the mixture. Your engine makes up for this by using more fuel to generate enough power to drive the same distance or speed as you do with a clean filter.

B. Misfiring Of The Engine An insufficient flow of oxygen from a clogged air filter allows unburnt fuel to leave the engine in the form of soot. This soot covers the spark plugs which makes it impossible to deliver the necessary spark to combust the air-fuel mixture. The engine will find it hard to start, resulting in misfiring or rough jerks.

C. Strange Engine Noise Are you hearing unusual noises than smooth vibrations of the engine? Then your engine may not be getting sufficient airflow which means the air filter needs replacement. The engine air filter might have been dirty or clogged reducing the airflow and altering the air-fuel mixture. This air-fuel mixture creates black soot over the spark plugs. This strange noise usually arises as the soot covers the spark plugs and it does not fire properly.

D. Check Engine Light Comes On Carbon deposits accumulate in the engine if the supply of air is inadequate which triggers the check engine light. If the light comes on, check the air filter if they need replacement before you run any other diagnostics. And this is one reason, most manufacturers recommend changing the air filter after every 15,000 km to 25,000 km.

E. Dirty Air Filter A brand new air filter will be in white or off-white color. But as days go by, because of the accumulation of dust, dirt, and other particles, they will appear darker. The dust particles on the inner layer of the air filter will not be visible even in bright light. So every time you take your car in for maintenance, make sure your mechanic visually inspects the air filter as it is highly essential.

F. Decreased Performance Is your car sluggish? Does it respond normally or jerks as you press the accelerator button? If these are the reasons, then there are good chances that the air filter is dirty and is preventing your engine from receiving clean air to function properly. To eliminate this issue, all you have to do is replace the dirty air filter.

G. Black Smoke/Flames From The Exhaust Some fuel may not burn completely in the combustion cycle if the air supply is insufficient. This fuel exits through the exhaust pipe. If you see black smoke from your exhaust pipe, get your air filter replaced by the mechanic. You may also see a flame at the end of the tailpipe or hear a popping sound. This condition is hazardous and needs to be diagnosed immediately.

H. Gasoline Smell In The Exhaust Do you smell petrol as you start your car? This can happen if there is insufficient oxygen in your fuel injection system and the excess unburnt fuel leaves your car through the exhaust pipe. Instead of black smoke in the exhaust pipe, you will smell gasoline. This is a clear sign that your air filter needs replacement.

I. Reduced Horsepower If your car does not respond adequately or if you notice jerking movements when you press the accelerator, this could indicate that your engine is not receiving all the air it needs to perform. Since it improves airflow, replacing your air filter can improve acceleration or horsepower by up to 11%.

7 What Is The Cost Of Air Filters?

Once you have checked your air filters and know that it’s time for a replacement, now you must consider which air filter to choose and at what price. Prices vary from one brand to another. 

A. Between $7-$20 – At this price point, you can find the best, most affordable, and quality air filters. They offer the best protection and you can also find a lot of competition in this price range.

B. Between $20- $60 – At this price-point you can find some of the best air filters that suit almost 80% of the vehicle. They have multiple layers of protection and offer excellent performance. 

C. $60 and more: High-performance air filters are available at this price range. Unlike regular filters, you don’t have to replace them every year as they won’t get clogged quickly or easily. This means your engine will get better air and perform better, eventually increasing your horsepower, and torque.

MANN FILTER Air Filter – Part Number Catalog
Category	Part Numbers
Mann Filter Air Filter	C35-154,  C27-006,  C43-139, C29-105, C36-004,  C39-002, C1041,    C27-045,  C42002,   C31-002, C29-132,  C35-215,  C28-155,  C25-114

WIX Air Filter – Part Number Catalog
Category	Part Numbers
WIX Air Filter	WA10417, 46930, 46573, 42725,  49012,  WA10695,  46116,   49104,    42389,   42020, WA10908,  46804, 49727,  49430, WA10831,  49225,   46174,    49018,   42487

K&N ENGINEERING Air Filter – Part Number Catalog
Category	Part Numbers
K&N Engineering Air Filter	PSA0945, 33-2360,  33-2439,  33-5016,  PSA2375, 33-2135,  33-2114,  33-2331, PSA2439, 33-2181,  33-2306,  33-2472, PSA2084, 33-2353,  33-2487,  33-2206

FRAM Air Filter – Part Number Catalog
Category	Part Numbers
Extra Guard Air	CA10491,   CA10262,   CA10190, CA9895,    CA11959, CA10493,   CA10014,   CA10690, CA10787,   CA10868,   CA10999

BECK/ARNLEY Air Filter – Part Number Catalog
Category	Part Numbers
Beck/Arnley Air Filter	042-1704,   042-1595,   042-1537, 042-1580,  042-1667, 042-1703,   042-1364,   042-1640, 042-1515,   042 1720,   042-1556

PUREZONE Air Filter – Part Number Catalog
Category	Part Numbers
Purezone Air Filter	9-46834,   9-49737,   9-49022, 9-49012, 9-46418,  9-46116, 9-46044, 9-49756, 9-46153,  9-46077,   9-49020, 9-46017, 9-10127,  9 49191,  9-49086