These are frequently asked questions when it comes to vehicle maintenance. Let’s start with the “engine air filter” of your vehicle. First off, is it important that I change it? The answer is YES, and here is why: The engine is powered by a combustible mixture of gasoline and air that creates an explosive reaction to produce horsepower.
Rather than relying on a carburetor to deliver the air/fuel mixture, modern cars use computers that automatically make adjustments in order to achieve. They also adjust other engine systems when need is for optimal performance and efficiency.

Dirty air filters can restrict the free flow of air into your engine. This will cause rough running, lower gas mileage, and a check engine light if it gets dirty enough. That sounds like a bundle of potential trouble, yes you might save what amounts to a few pennies by stretching the life of your currently dirty air filter when the truth be told it will cost you thousands in the long run with fewer miles per gallon, additional maintenance, (less life out of your spark plugs, oxygen seasons, etc.) not to mention additional wear and tear on your engine.
You know that you should keep on schedule for changing your air filter, but the location of these essential filters can be a tricky thing to remember. You may be surprised to learn that many car owners don’t know what the engine air filter does, or even where it can be found.
On today’s typical car or truck, air filters can be shaped like a square, rectangle, or other trapezoidal shapes. Unlike the old days when they were thin circular shapes sitting prominently on top of an engine. The old-style round air filter was the first thing you would see upon opening the car hood. It was found easily, and inexpensive to replace. In the past, you could unfasten one wing nut, lift off the cover, pop in a new filter, and be done!
Your cabin air filter traps dust, pollen, hair, particulates, pollution, exhaust fumes, animal waste (yes, animals like to reside under your hood sometimes), basically all manner of substances that you do not want going into your nose, mouth, and lungs. Your cabin air filter is an investment in your respiratory health. In fact, it’s probably the most important one you have!
Remember, when you take your vehicle in for service and the shop or dealership recommends new air filters, ask them to send you pictures of the air filter in your Porsche. This way, before an authorization is given on replacement it will be clear what’s going on with that filter! You can also ask them to keep the old filter for your inspection.