Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Matthew Lloyd
A clean air intake filter is essential for the longevity and performance of any vehicle. Without a well-maintained air filter, dirt, dust, and other particles can clog the engine and cause costly repairs. Fortunately, cleaning a cold air intake filter is an easy task that can be done in the comfort of your garage.
Cleaning Filter By Using Cold Air Intake Filter Cleaner:
Step 1: Remove The Filter
Disconnect the intake tube and intake manifold from the engine. Then, remove any clamps or other fasteners that hold the filter in place. Once all fasteners have been removed, carefully pull out the filter and set it aside on a clean surface for further cleaning.
Step 2: Clean The Filter
Once the filter is removed, it can be cleaned. For reusable filters, use a pressurized air hose to blow out any dirt, debris, and dust collected on the filter. Once this material is cleared out, grab a bottle of cold air intake cleaner and spray the entire filter until it is completely saturated. When finished spraying, let the filter sit for 10-15 minutes so that all of the particles from the cleaner have time to break down before being rinsed off. After allowing enough time for the cleaner to do its job, rinse off all of the residues with cold water.
Step 3: Dry Your Filter
The best way to do this is by placing it outside in the sun. This allows the air to naturally dry out the filter without causing any damage. Make sure it is facing away from direct sunlight, as this could cause some of the materials to become too hot and possibly melt or warp. The filter may take a few hours to dry, so be patient fully. If you are in a rush, you can also use a hairdryer on low heat to speed up drying time.
Step 4: Oil Your Filter
Oiling the filter helps ensure that your engine receives clean air and prevents dirt and dust from entering through the cracks of a dry filter. Purchase an aerosol air intake cleaner or foam-style oil for cold air intakes.
- Hold the filter over a trashcan so that any excess oil drips into it instead of onto the ground or other surfaces.
- Spray or apply the oil in short bursts until all areas are evenly covered with oil – but don’t soak it. Maintain enough airflow through the filter without creating too much resistance on your engine’s performance as well as preventing excessive buildup of dirt/dust on its surface.
- Gently tap off any excess oil from around the filter’s edges so that you don’t end up with too much residual liquid inside when reinstalling it back onto your car’s engine bay.
Step 5: Inspect And Reinstall
Carefully inspect the filter to ensure no dirt or debris remains in crevices or folds. Ensure all ductwork and its connections are also free of dirt and buildup.
Reinstall the filter back into place following the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure all connections are secure and tight to prevent any air from leaking out around them. Then reconnect any electrical components that were removed during disassembly. Once complete, start up your vehicle to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
Types Of Cold Air Intake Filter Cleaners
Aerosols:
You should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using aerosols to clean a cold air intake filter. Make sure the aerosol is designed specifically for use on automotive parts and that it does not contain any harsh chemicals that could damage the material of your filter.
Spray:
Spray cleaning is one of the most popular methods for cold air intake filter cleaning. This method involves spraying a degreasing or cleaning solution onto the filter and allowing it to sit for some time. After this, the filter should be rinsed with clean water, then dried thoroughly with a lint-free cloth. The amount of spray and the type of cleaner used will depend on how dirty or greasy the filter is and its material composition.
How To Choose A Cold Air Intake Filter Cleaner?
To ensure you are using a quality product, look for a cleaner that lists its ingredients on the label. Choosing a cleaner with natural and non-toxic ingredients are generally recommended to avoid damaging or corroding your engine’s parts. Additionally, if you live in an area with especially dusty roads or extreme weather conditions, consider selecting a cleaner with rust inhibitors and anti-static properties to protect your filter from damage. When choosing between aerosol and liquid cleaners, consider the manufacturer’s recommendations, as some may advise against aerosols due to possible interference with sensors or other electronic components.
What Happens If You Don’t Clean Your Cold Air Intake Filter?
If you don’t clean your cold air intake filter, it can become saturated with dust and debris, leading to a decrease in engine performance. Dirt and debris can clog the filter and restrict airflow, which affects the engine’s ability to draw in the correct amount of air for combustion. This reduced airflow will cause poor fuel economy, reduce power output, generate higher emissions levels, and even damage components over time due to increased temperatures. Furthermore, a dirty or clogged cold air intake filter can also increase exhaust backpressure, which puts additional strain on the engine’s pistons and cylinders.
Can You Use Dish Soap To Clean A Cold Air Intake Filter?
Dish soap is an effective choice for cleaning a cold air intake filter as it can help to remove dirt and grime from the filter efficiently. It is best to use mild dish soap, such as liquid castile, with no harsh chemicals or abrasive ingredients.
How Do I Know If My Cold Air Intake Is Dirty?
If you notice that the filter element looks discolored or has a buildup of dirt and dust, then it’s time for a cleaning. You should also check for any oil or fluid buildup on the filter, as this could indicate a bigger problem with your engine. Listen for strange noises coming from the engine bay when accelerating or revving the engine up. If you hear whistling or sucking noises, this could indicate something wrong with your air intake system and needs further inspection.
Can I Wash The Air Filter With Water?
The air filter of a cold air intake should never be washed with water. Cold air intake filters are designed to absorb dirt and debris, not just trap it. Water can cause the filter to become saturated, reducing its effectiveness and potentially damaging the engine.
How Long Do Cold Air Intake Filters Last?
Cold air intake filters should be cleaned every 10,000 to 15,000 miles. This will ensure your engine gets the cleanest air possible and runs at peak performance.
Can A Dirty Air Filter Stop Cooling?
A dirty air filter can impede the flow of cold air, leading to decreased cooling efficiency. The best way to prevent this is to regularly check and clean the air filter.
Conclusion:
It is important to regularly check and clean your cold air intake filter in order to maximize the performance of your vehicle. Cleaning a cold air intake filter is simple and inexpensive when done regularly. If you do not have the time or knowledge to perform this maintenance yourself, most auto shops can do it for you at an affordable cost.
