replace air filter during new oil change, or wait?

[HOndaGuy]

I know this may sound stupid, but I just bought a new oem filtech air filter for my 02 civic ex, since I have about 21000 miles on the car and stock oem filter. I haven't taken it apart to look at, but I am pretty sure its dirty after 2 years. So, should I replace it asap, or do it before I change my oil?

Thanks.


Aaron

 

[2K2AcuraTL]

I think its good practice to inspect the air filter at every oil change. After 2 years or 21000 miles, odds are its due for replacement.
Jean

 

[Neil Womack]

Lots of factors go into determining when to change your air filter. Commercial/Ag vehicles use air restriction meters.

You want to guard against changing to often as paper air filters become more efficient as it gets dirty. At least up top the point where it becomes excessively restrictive.

Try this little experiment. Put in your new filter. If your MPG rises then your old filter was restricting air flow. No increase in MPG put the old one back in. Then repeat in 3 or 4 thousand more miles.

You will then have a customized change schedule for your situation.

 

[427Z06]

FWIW, I just looked at my air filter on an 02 Accord V6 after receiving an UOA with moderately high Si levels. The filter is the original with 21K miles and 2 years of service. And I have to say it didn't look like it needs changing which was a big surprise for me. The seal looked fine to me too.

The service manual recommends 30K or 2 years. It's one of what I call those fuzzy type elements made by FILTECH, unlike the paper type elements I've seen more often. Both Jap cars I own came stock with similar looking filtering material.

I'll probably drive up to NAPA or PepBoys and see what type of replacement elements they have and what they look like.