Keep an Eye on Your Car's Filters

Proper fluid levels and clean filters are vital. In addition to the grit, dirt and other foreign matter which enters the engine and transmission from outside air and other sources, your car also creates its own contaminates through condensation, chemical reactions and wear. Some components would self-destruct if they were not protected by filters.

1. CRANKCASE VENT FILTER-- Prevents dirt from entering crankcase. 
2. AIR FILTER-- Keeps abrasive dust, dirt, bugs and other foreign matter out of the engine air intake. 
3. ENGINE OIL FILTER -- Traps dirt, metal filings and sludge, allowing only filtered oil to circulate through the engine. 
4. TRANSMISSION FILTER-- Collects dirt and metal filings, protecting finely machined parts. 
5. FUEL FILTER-- Traps rust, sediment, dirt and other particles which may enter the fuel system and clog tiny jets. 
6. VAPOR CANISTER-- Collects gasoline vapors and returns them to the fuel system. 

Check your owner's manual for car manufacturer's recommendations or follow service intervals shown above. Are you a severe service driver? You may be if: 

• Your average trip is ten miles or less. 
• You do a lot of driving in temperature extremes. 
• You do a lot of stop and go driving. 

This type of operation demands more frequent maintenance intervals on some components.

Courtesy of the Car Care Council