Free Breathing Improves Gas Mileage

(NC)-Imagine trying to do strenuous exercise with a dirty handkerchief over your nose and mouth. You never do it, right? Yet everyday, people ask their car or truck to do very strenuous exercise with a "dirty handkerchief over its nose: a clogged and dirty air filter.

Changing an air filter is one of the most important forms of vehicle maintenance and also one of the most inexpensive. Like the human body, a vehicle's engine needs lots of clean, fresh air to run right. According to Natural Resources Canada1, replacing a clogged air filter can improve fuel economy by 10 percent, saving motorists more than $7 on every fill-up at current gas prices2.

"Gasoline engines need 10,000 liters of air for every liter of fuel," said Megan Currie, Fram product manager. "So especially in this time of high fuel prices, it just makes sense to change your air filter regularly as recommended in your car's owner manual."

Even for the automotive novice, changing the air filter is a relatively simple task. While many oil change and service centers will offer to do it for you, you have the option to do it yourself.

Fram offers a variety of high-quality air filter choices uniquely suited for every make and model of vehicle, and convenient online step-by-step instructions for each. All you need is 10-15 minutes, a dry rag and a screwdriver. For a step by step guide, visit www.fram.com and check out their How To Videos under the Car Care tab on the front page.

A word of advice, consider your vehicle needs to get the right filter to do the job. Truck and SUV drivers should turn to the Fram Tough Guard filter, which is designed specifically to perform in the most demanding driving conditions. Those looking to add a bit of a boost to their ride should try the latest addition to the Fram family - the AirHog High Performance filter. The AirHog filter maximizes the amount of air available to your engine, boosting horsepower and acceleration. For the everyday driver, Fram suggests the Extra-Life filter to protect your engine and keep it running at its best. Fram recommends changing the air filter every 20,000 kms, but check the owner's manual for specific vehicle manufacturer guidance.

Learn more about Fram products at fram.com.

1 http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/transportation/personal/ maintaining/vehicle-maintenance.cfm?attr=8

2 Based on a 76L gas tank at $0.95/L.