The engine air filter traps dirt and other debris to prevent it from entering the engine. As time passes, the filter will become clogged with dirt, and that affects the performance of even a Cadillac engine. As your Cadillac dealer, we’d like you to know a few signs you need to visit us for an air filter replacement.
Signs You Need an Air Filter Replacement at Your Cadillac Dealer
Check Engine Light
The check engine light warns you of any problem in your engine that affects its health or performance. A blocked air filter will trigger this light as the lack of air affects the fuel-air mixture. Combustion requires a 14:1 air-to-fuel ratio, but a blocked filter will reduce the amount of air in the engine. The increased amount of fuel in the mixture will turn your engine fuel-rich.
A fuel-rich engine greatly reduces performance, uses more fuel, and can damage engine components. Spark plugs and ignition coils work less effectively and become coated in carbon, which reduces their life. All these issues will trigger the sensors, and the light will illuminate. Our technicians will check your engine and replace the air filter if it’s the source of the problem.
Black Exhaust Smoke
Normal exhaust smoke is white and whispy, as the vast majority of dangerous chemicals have been removed from it already. If your exhaust starts to belch black smoke, it is a sign your engine lacks air. As we’ve seen, a fuel-rich engine uses more fuel, as much of this fuel doesn’t burn. The unburnt fuel is dumped out of the cylinder into the catalytic converter.
The catalytic converter uses extreme pressure, intense heat, and chemical reactions to convert dangerous chemicals like carbon monoxide and hydrogen sulfide into harmless chemicals and water. The converter can’t convert so much unburnt fuel, which passes through and exits the exhaust as black smoke. Once we replace the filter, the exhaust smoke will return to normal.
Strange Engine Noises
A Cadillac engine has a distinctive sound. If this familiar sound is interrupted by strange noises like coughing or gurgling, the fuel-air mixture is wrong. The fuel-air mixture can be affected by several issues, but the most common is a blocked air filter. The odd noises are caused by the cylinders trying to cope with excessive amounts of fuel and the spark plug’s inability to ignite the mixture successfully.
The noises are not only disturbing, but they can result in long-term damage to the pistons, cylinders, and other engine components. Our technicians will replace the filter, and the weird noises will cease.
Why Regular Air Filter Changes Are Important
Changing your Cadillac’s air filters regularly helps ensure that your engine runs smoothly and efficiently. It prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine, which can lead to costly repairs down the line. Additionally, a clean air filter supports optimal fuel efficiency and maintains the vehicle’s overall performance.
Trust Airport Cadillac for Your Air Filter Needs
At Airport Cadillac, we know that clean air filters are crucial for your Cadillac’s performance and efficiency. Our certified technicians specialize in inspecting and replacing air filters, ensuring your engine receives the clean air it needs to run smoothly.
Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule your air filter replacement with us today and keep your Cadillac running at its best.
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