Engine Air Filter
The Engine Air Filter traps and keeps dirt particles, which can cause damage to the engine cylinders, walls, pistons and piston rings. The air filter also plays a role in keeping contaminants away from sensitive mass air sensors and other electronic components. The air filter also 
helps reduce engine intake noise. The manufacturer may recommend changing your air filter every two years, we recommend changing your air filter every year and your filter should be checked at every oil change. Honda reccomends changing the Civic Air Filter every 30,000 miles.
A dirty air filter restricts the air entering the engine, and can impact your fuel economy and overall performance. The air filter is the one item you should always replace frequently! Save yourself time and money but replacing your air filter yourself. The first thing you can do to save yourself money in fuel costs is to replace your air filter every 3-6 months. A dirty air filter can cause your car or truck to burn up to 20% more gas than if you had a clean air filter. A Dirty Audi A4 Air Filter can actually reduce the horsepower by 10%
You can tell if you need to replace your air filter by holding it up to a light will show you how dirty it is. You should be able to see the light easily thru the filter. If dirt or dust is falling out of the air filter, or you cant see any light thru the filter, it obviously needs to be replaced. Trying to shake or blow the dirt out is a waste of time because too much of the dirt will be embedded in the air filter fibers.
Do not beat the filter on the ground and try to remove the dirt, this will only damage the air filter and let contaminants into the engine. If you are not sure, err on the side of caution and replace the air filter. Remember, a few dollars on a new air filter now can save you hundreds in fuel costs. If you that are looking for a bit extra performance, you may want to consider a hi-flow air filter like a K&N Air Filters.
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