Air filters are your vehicle's first line of defense against dust and particulates that can enter your car's engine system. In cars, there are two kinds of air filters, the combustion air filter and the cabin air filter. Combustion air filters prevent particulate matter from penetrating your engine's combustion chambers while cabin air filters, purify the air that enters your vehicle's ventilation system.

Automotive filters are usually made of different materials such as paper, foam and cotton. Paper filter are generally used for cars because they are inexpensive and disposable. With paper filters, good air flow is sacrificed for better filtration. For performance filtration, foam filters are used because these have a higher retention level and these permit better air intake, like cotton gauze. Foam filters are popular in rallying and other motor sports. Cotton on the other hand, is regarded as the best material for filtration. These can be cleaned and re-oiled to be used again. However, cotton air filters cannot be used at different environments. These cannot be used at dusty deserts and even snowy countries. This is why, paper and foam are better preferred by most motorists.

Air filters play an important role in engine performance and even by in your safety. Always keep your air filters in tip-top shape. If you use disposable filters, always make sure that they are changed on a regular basis. Ad if you utilize foam and any other washable filters, always keep them clean.