When do I replace the air filter on my car?

[Christopher]

As the title suggests... How do I know when it's time to replace the air filter? I don't want answers that say to replace it as XX,XXX miles, but more of a what does a dirty air filter look like and what should I look for when its time to replace it?

[Jenn1270]

Depends on the car. I change the one in my car every 15K miles. My husband doesn't believe in changing his.

[Christopher]

Depends on the car. I change the one in my car every 15K miles. My husband doesn't believe in changing his.

What does it look like when you replace it?

[Jenn1270]

What does it look like when you replace it?

Black and filthy. My cabin air filter had leaves and other gunk in it

[tephra]

which air filter? the cabin one or the engine one?

if your driving a performance car then change it more often than the MFC states, otherwise just do it whenever the MFC says.

they are cheap enough that its not really that big a deal

[rakkvet]

I don't change mine. I have a CAI with a K&N Filter. I clean it every couple oil changes.

[Harleyguy]

Anywhere from 15K to 30K is the norm.If you remove it and it's covered in sort or has a lot of sand it in replace it.This is a very inexpensive part and plays a big part in proper car care.