Originally posted by 69Boss302:
Originally posted by ScottK:
Actually, it could theoretically void a warranty.

If it had been in there 10,000 miles and never cleaned, and dirt was obviously getting through due to lack of oiling then you're SOL (Wasn't Big Jim the one with the story about the guy who toasted his VW in this way?)

Or on the other hand if you did clean it and over-oiled it so it took out the MAF (very common) than you're on the hook for a new one. You could clean the MAF yourself, but I really doubt the dealer would risk cleaning it and having a comeback call when it's just as easy to replace it.



According to K&N, the filter actually performs better when dirrty than when clean. They say that the dirt helps to trap more dirt while still allowign adequate airflow.





To a point -

"Our testing has demonstrated that on average, K&N air filters have an overall efficiency rating of between 97 and 99%. With proper cleaning K&N air filters will protect your engine for the life of your vehicle."

"20. How do I know when to clean the filter?

The general rule of thumb is that the filter needs to be cleaned when the dirt build up gets as thick as the wire mesh. The usual interval is 30,000 - 50,000 miles depending on driving conditions. We recommend that you check your filter about once a year in normal usage."

It is also dependant on the tackinesss of the filter oil - without that crap can just fly on by.

BTW - you'll see I have a K&N on mine, but I check it a ccouple times a year since we're basicly a big dusty desert here and try and clean it carefully wheen it lookss bad.

97 Contour SE MTX K&N 3530, UR UDP, 19# Injectors, mystery mod, FMS wires, Fordchip.com chip, SVT: TB, Flywheel, clutch, exhaust 04 Grand Caravan SXT