Over time, your car’s engine air filter collects dirt and debris (even bugs) and eventually needs to be replaced.

If your air filer gets too dirty or clogged, your engine won't be able to suck enough air into the combustion chambers and your "Check Engine" warning light may come on. Your local Take 5 Technician, located at 12518 San Jose Blvd., can help diagnose the problem and replace any dirty filters. The engine will then run rich (too much gas and not enough air). When this happens, your vehicle may lose power and the engine may not run smoothly.

If you really neglect the air filter for a long time your vehicle may stop running altogether. While permanent damage is unlikely, it is possible. If an air filter were sufficiently dirty and damaged, it could allow harmful, abrasive contaminants into the combustion chamber.