In a nutshell, yes, high-performance air filters can provide an increase in power. On average, this increase is around 3 to 5 HP, which may seem like a small boost but can go a long way in improving the overall performance of the vehicle and the driving experience. One of the advantages of a high-flow air filter is that it doesn't need to be changed as often as regular filters. All you have to do is clean it approximately every two years since they don't clog as quickly or as easily, but they offer better airflow and better filtration of the air entering the engine.
And if your engine gets more air, then it can work better. In fact, a high-flow air filter can increase its power by 3 to 5 HP and also increase its torque. At the same time, this can increase fuel efficiency. How does this happen? In some of the more expensive units, the filter comes with a cold air intake unit. It is installed to extract air from outside the car instead of the hot air used inside the engine compartment.
Going back to science class, cold air is denser and therefore burns better, which improves engine performance. Whether you want to increase power, fuel efficiency, or simply reduce the hassle of changing your air filter regularly, a high-flow filter can be a good option. You would have to weigh the pros and cons and how much you would be willing to pay for a quality filter. Fuel economy improves because high-performance air filters extract air from outside the engine compartment, where the air is colder. However, most drivers may not have considered installing one of these high-performance air filters or may have wondered if it was worth spending money on. Ensuring that your vehicle has adequate air flow is essential for maximizing engine power and efficiency.
It is very similar to a vacuum cleaner; when you notice a decrease in power, the cause may be a dirty filter since the air is literally expelled at the cost of the vehicle's power. When performing routine maintenance on your vehicle, one of the most overlooked aspects is the air filter. The colder air outside the engine compartment is denser than the warm air inside the engine compartment, which is heated by internal engine combustion and other motion mechanisms that generate heat through friction. The high-performance air filter will not only slightly increase your horsepower but will also improve your vehicle's fuel economy. A high-performance air filter is more technically known as a high-flow air filter, which explains how it differs from a regular air filter.
It's important to note that high-performance air filters are considered a modification and can void your warranty if you have a new vehicle that's still within the warranty period. One problem that has been observed is that due to increased air intake, high-performance filters can expose the engine to more debris and contaminants. What Fenske doesn't check is how well each aftermarket filter actually filters the air that enters the engine compared to the original unit. Installing a high-flow air filter can be beneficial for those who want to improve their vehicle's performance without having to spend too much money or time on maintenance. It offers an increase in power and torque while also improving fuel efficiency. However, it's important to consider all factors before making any modifications as they may void your warranty.
