Air Filter change, repair & replacement made easy

The air filter is a component of the car's engine air inlet system. It filters fresh air from outside before the air is circulated through these systems and into the engine.

• Mechanic will inspect the air filter and the air inlet system.
• Mechanic will replace the air filter element.
• Mechanic will advise if any other parts need to be replaced.
• Mechanic will run the engine and, if necessary, test drive the car.

Unless you are a qualified mechanic with the required skills, training and equipment to do the job, we strongly recommend an air filter change is only carried out by a professional mechanic. ClickMechanic can help get you a vetted and local mechanic to carry out the work. Just enter your postcode and your car's registration number at the top of this page and select the work needed to get an instant fixed price up front.

• When the 'Check Engine' light is on.
• When the engine runs rough.
• When the engine idle is rough.
• When the engine performs not as well as usually is the case.
• When starting the car is troublesome.
• When the engine will not start at all.

An air filter change usually takes under 1 hour, but can take more time. Ultimately, the time that the job will take will depend on a number of factors, like your vehicle's make and model, year, as well as other factors. Select your car at the top of this page for information on job time and cost for your vehicle through ClickMechanic.

You should endeavour to always service the air filter as and when stipulated in the guidelines set out by your car's manufacturer.

The cabin air filter is a component of the air conditioning and heater systems in a car. It filters fresh air from outside before the air is circulated through these systems and into the passenger compartment.

• Mechanic will inspect the cabin air filter and the heater and air conditioning systems.
• If necessary, the mechanic will replace the cabin air filter.
• Mechanic will advise if any other parts need to be replaced.
• Mechanic will test the heater and air conditioning systems.

• When the heater does not work properly.
• When the air coming from the air conditioning vents is weaker than usual.

Over time, the cabin air filter can get rather dirty or even clog up completely with dirt. In this case there will be a reduced air flow towards the heater or air conditioning systems. Should you experience problems with the air flow into passenger compartment, then it is advisable to have the cabin air filter inspected and, if necessary, have it replaced.

You should endeavour to always service the cabin air filter as and when stipulated in the guidelines set out by your car's manufacturer.

If your air filter is dirty or clogged it is recommended to address this as soon as possible. It could be restricting the air supply to the engine signficantly and be the reason for a rough running engine, and may result in damage to the engine.

The average life of an air filter in a car is about 15,000 miles. This can be lower or higher depending on the area you most frequently drive around - for example, if you drive in dusty or polluted areas then it's likely the air filter will need to be replaced sooner than would otherwise be the case.

Yes, air filters do deteriorate with age and will need replacing periodically. Over time they can get clogged up with dirt, polluting particles and insects from the air. As the engine needs an optimal mixture of air and fuel to achieve the most efficient performance, the air filter must be kept clean and replaced when necessary.

No, the air filter is not checked as part of the MOT test. However, a clogged or dirty air filter can affect performance and lead to issues with emissions which is checked during an MOT test.

A dirty air filter in itself will not cause an MOT failure, however a clogged up filter can contribute to engine performance issues. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow into the engine and ultimately result in reduced fuel consumption and exhaust emissions issues.