I know it is dependent on conditions, but best case scenario, what would be the time/mileage frame for new air filters... and isn't there some aftermarket product other than k&n that supposedly ups hp?

 

I got 13K on mine and took them out to check them , blew them clean a little and they still look fine. ???

 

I replaced mine after 28,000 miles and 7 years. It was dirty.

 

Best case in what way?

If you drive 6K to 9K miles per year in an area where dust/sandstorms are unknown every other year is a reasonable filter change interval. 'course the car's owners manual may give a more frequent change interval too and you should abide by that.

If you drive more miles per year or if it is particularly dusty/dirty where you are once a year is probably better.

I would never go with an aftermarket air filter.

 

"Supposedly ups hp" - maybe...but negligible and difficult to measure despite claims.

 

Out of curiosity why would you not use an aftermarket air filter?

 

There have been debates about aftermarkets being 'not so superior' to factory filters or other known brands such as the ones you buy from PepBoys.

fyi, after 3 filters, I have decided to go with K&N filters. IMO, it pays itself in a very few years. Yes, I have read studies about it letting more dirt pass thru; conversely, I also have read the opposite.

As a consumer, we can all decide if factory is better/worst, K&N better/worst, etc.

 

I think it varies on conditions as most have already said. I try to pull mine out once every 4-6 months or during a oil change and just give it a quick inspection. We offer a few different options for air filters. For more information Click Here.

 

Because at the end of all the internet debates there is no evidence that they are in any way superior to the paper filters the manufacturer specifies. No filter will increase HP in a NA engine, unless of course the filter you are using is clogged to the point that it is restricting normal air flow.

 

BMC has a nice alternative to a K&N.

 

I'm just a BIG fan if K&N filters. After 12,000 miles on a paper OEM filter I replaced it with a K&N. instant change in mid-range torque. I think either way find an alternate to the OEM filter when the time comes.

 

You wouldn't be a fan in the off-road world with K&N...one of the worst! Just sayin.

 

It doesn't really matter to me regarding any power gain. What I care about would be reusability and being green. With disposable ones, I need I have a backup for emergencies whereas with reusable a, I just clean it whenever I feel like it.

 

Emergency? I guess you'll have to carry the cleaning solution and the oil instead of a spare air filter.

 

I guess emergency is the wrong word I used. Often times, IN THE GARAGE, I find myself needing to have a clean air filter. If I had the paper filter and didn't have a backup, I would need to either order or go to the parts store. With reusable, I would just wash and oil the unit.

Filter is unlike a the serpentine belt --- the belt I carry with me all the time!!!

Cheers!