Cold air intake filter has the role of filtering out particles of dust in the air before it enters the combustion chamber.
After a long time of working, it will accumulate dirt and reduce the performance intake tube and optimal engine performance if not cleaned periodically.
So how to clean spectre air filter? The guide below can help you.
How To Clean Spectre Air Filter?
This work is simple, so car owners can do it at home. The best way to clean K&N air filter consists of three main parts: removing dirt, rinsing and drying, and oiling. Here are detailed instructions:
Take Out Filters
Depending on each manufacturer’s design, its location may be slightly different. Most of them are inside a stock filter box behind the air intakes and the grille.
Some versions will come with a retaining pin or clamp, so you must remove them first.
There are many filter shapes, like circular, conical, flat, or cone filters, but regardless of design, the cleaning method is the same.
Place an object or a towel in the air intake port to prevent debris and dirt from entering the rear engine while using the air filter cleaning kit.
Observe The Condition Of The Filters
According to K&N, if the dust on the folds is so thick that you can’t see them clearly, it needs to be cleaned. Otherwise, it may not be necessary to do it quickly, even though it looks dirty.
Immediately clean filters that are dimly clogged or have lost all red oil.
Shake Off Dirt And Dust
Gently shake the filter to remove surface debris. Don’t forget to wear a dust mask and eye protection to prevent dust particles from falling out.
One thing to keep in mind is that the folds should not be handled directly or shaken too hard because they are all prone to tearing.
You can use a soft bristle brush to clean it without damaging it.
Spray Cleaning Solution
Next, spray the air intake filter cleaners evenly over the creases. Let spread evenly on the inside and outside of all folds to remove dirt completely.
You can find specialized solutions at auto parts stores.
Wait For 10 Minutes For The Cleaner To Absorb
After spraying, the detergent will begin to break down layers of dirt so you can wash it off easily.
Now place it on a towel or in the sink to prevent the residue from melting and staining the surface of the folds.
Rinse With Cool Water
Directly rinse it under running water to clean it inside and out. Only discharging water from the outside only causes dust particles to roll deep inside the crevices.
For stubborn stains, you need to clean and rinse several times.
Shake Off Standing Water
After washing, shake it, wipe it with a dry towel, or put it in a dry place to remove any remaining water. They need to dry completely.
Let It Dry Overnight
This process takes about 6-8 hours, so you should only clean the KN filter on days when you do not need to use the car. Do not apply oil while it is still damp.
In case you need to use the car urgently, you can temporarily use a disposable air filter while you wait.
Oil Coating
Apply a thin layer of oil to all the creases. You can use a spray bottle or squeeze bottle, but ensure the oil is everywhere. This specialized oil is red, so you can easily see where there is no oil.
Then, wipe off excess oil on the edges with a clean paper towel.
Wait For The Oil To Seep In
Wait about 20 minutes for the oil to penetrate and create a protective film. This layer of oil has the effect of collecting debris and dirt.
Install Back
Install it back into the engine compartment as it was, and don’t forget to reattach the fixing clips you removed in the first place. So you have finished air intake filter cleaning.
How Often Should You Clean The K&N Air Filter?
The small filters are extremely important in filtering dust from the air into the car engine. Desert dust will fill the vents in vehicles used for many days traveling on dusty roads.
This reduces airflow, reduces power, heats the engine, and causes soot in the combustion chamber, affecting the ignition system.
That’s why you need a proper cleaning and maintenance schedule to ensure your car can run smoothly without worrying about the build-up of dirt in the engine.
The frequently washable filters depend on many factors, such as:
- The type that you use
- Installation location
- Engine specifications
- Frequency of use
- Climatic conditions where you live
- Warranted product after purchasing
You can refer to the manufacturer’s product details book for more information.
On average, car users should periodically clean this part after the car has operated for 5,000 km and replace it after about 20,000 km.
With old cars, often used in a dusty environment, you should clean them after 3,000 – 4,000 km and replace them after 15,000 km.
What Are The Signs That You Need Clean Dry Filters?
The recommended numbers are approximate, as the actual filter’s condition determines when you need to clean or replace it.
To help you make a decision, consider this when you start seeing the following symptoms in your vehicle:
- Breaking fuel economy: Dirty filters reduce the amount of air entering the engine. Electric fuel pump needs to make up for this shortfall by using more energy.
- Difficulty starting the car: Not having enough air to mix the fuel can contaminate the spark plugs, causing misbehaving or even stalling completely.
- Unusual sounds: This happens because a spark plug has failed due to clogged filters.
- Reduced horsepower: The engine is unresponsive when hitting the gas; jerky movements mean it’s not getting the air it needs to function optimally.
- Black smoke comes from the exhaust due to insufficient air to ignite the fuel. You may even hear an explosion or see a small flame at the top of the exhaust.
- The engine warning light comes on: dirt accumulated on the engine will trigger the warning light.
Conclusion
The engine filter is a very important part and can be cleaned and reused instead of having to be replaced completely.
Hope the above repair guide has helped you better understand how to clean spectre air filter. Don’t forget the regular maintenance period.