Why does the air filter affect the power of the car?

The air filter is an important part of the intake system of the car engine. Its main function is to filter dust, particulate matter and other impurities in the air to ensure that the air entering the engine is clean. However, many car owners may not know that the state of the air filter will directly affect the power performance of the car. So, why does the air filter affect the power? How to avoid this problem?

1. The air filter is blocked, resulting in insufficient intake
The engine needs the mixed combustion of air and fuel. If the air filter is not replaced for a long time, a large amount of dust and impurities will accumulate, resulting in increased intake resistance and reduced air flow. In this way, the engine cannot get enough oxygen, the combustion efficiency decreases, and the power is naturally weakened. Especially when accelerating or climbing, the feeling of insufficient power will be more obvious.

2. Affecting the air-fuel ratio and reducing combustion efficiency
The optimal working state of the engine depends on the appropriate air-fuel ratio (the ratio of air to fuel). If the air filter is blocked, the intake volume is reduced, and the fuel injection volume remains unchanged, it will cause the mixture to be too rich (the fuel ratio is too high) and the combustion is incomplete. This will not only reduce power, but may also increase fuel consumption and even cause more carbon deposits, affecting the life of the engine.

3. Turbocharged models are more sensitive
For turbocharged engines, the impact of the air filter is more obvious. The turbocharger relies on high-speed airflow to increase the intake pressure. If the filter is clogged, the turbocharger's boost efficiency will decrease, resulting in slower power response and even turbo hysteresis.