2007-10-10 03:37:46 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
They flow air better than the stock paper style elements.
They were the first with the oiled cotton gauze filter elements. Been around for at least 40 years so they are not really the latest technology. These can be cleaned and re-oiled making them last the life of the vehicle.
There is a problem you can encounter with this type of filter element that they don't tell you about. Oil vapors from the filter element can get on the Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF). This sensor is located between the air filter element and the throttle body. If this sensor gets fouled by oil from the filter element, it will cause it to send inaccurate data to the engine management computer. This will cause your engine to run erratic and kill your performance, not what you intended.
There is newer technology with washable filter elements that do not require oil. These may be a better way to go.
2007-10-10 03:41:35 · answer #1 · answered by Mad Jack 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
K&N is generally great for performance and economy. $50 or so may seem expensive at first for a filter but you have to consider the power and fuel economy gains that come with it, not to mention the million mile warranty (provided you recharge it as needed). I put a 3" off road K&N open element cone air filter (BIG) on my 99 Eclipse with a custom cold air intake, and the filter switch (compared to a lil crummy cone i got from a buddy jus to get the CAI running) made a pretty hefty difference, more torque, nice gains when the higher speed air hits it, and a nice lil intake whine. Provided my car has a long list of mods, but K&N should benefit any car.
2007-10-10 10:52:05 · answer #2 · answered by pheonixtears2000 2 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Generally, Yes.
There are other manufacturers that have copied (closely) K&N filters. The element of an K&N filter is much more efficient than regular paper filters and with proper cleaning and reoiling will last the lifetime of the vehicle. I use K&N filters in all of my vehicles and have actually been able to document an increase in fuel miliage.
Good product.
2007-10-10 10:46:36 · answer #3 · answered by Jeff L 2 · 1⤊ 1⤋
I recently put one in my 2000 Buick Regal, I feel some power difference during acceleration...more air flow. I did not notice mpg improvement yet. The check engine light went on and off ...as far as to-date, stay off.
2007-10-10 13:27:51 · answer #4 · answered by James1982 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
K&N is trusted and proven. Your best bet for road cars and even low end track cars. If your thinking of switching I suggest you stick with them.
2007-10-10 10:43:34 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
It's my personal prefference.
I have their AF in both my cars, and have for years.
I trust their quality more than any other.
Just my opinion.
2007-10-10 10:48:48 · answer #6 · answered by Mr. KnowItAll 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋