Engine Air Cleaner Filters.

[Lowell]

How often do you replace your engine air filter?  I replaced mine today on our van after 25,000 miles and really couldn't tell that much difference between the old one and the new one. But since Checker had a coupon in the paper worth $8, (it only cost me $.99 to repace it) I thought it was worth it. ;D
Jake

 

[John From Detroit]

Me, depends.. the air cleaner on the MH I suppose I should replace, it's a year old and some thousands of miles, I will get it with the next oil change (Since some of those are dessert miles)

The Air cleaner on the towed,,, I don't replace as  it is a K & N. 

(K & N filters you clean and renew)

Now, Before you run out and buy a K & N, I've heard lots of argument why you don't want to buy one, Most of it is, well, not founded in fact, However the last one I heard was a good one, so I'm not going to recommend them on any vehicle made in the last 10 years, My towed is a teenager however so it gets a K & N. (Note, not recommending against them either,  Not taking any position at all on them with newer cars)

If you drive in dusty/dirty areas, Gravel roads, Dessert, Off-Road, you need to change more often,  Otherwise it is a good idea to do it every other oil change I suspect.  A clean air filter gives better performance, you will not likely notice unless you are towing however, and better gas millage (likewise) though your engine control computer can compensate for a lot now days in the gas millage difference department.

 

[Gary RV_Wizard]

I check mine annually and sometimes more often if traveling in dusty conditions. I seldom replace them - usually they just need to have the sand & dirt "shaken out" if they are the paper cartridge type. O  blowing it with compressed air can work wonders too.  But if it shows signs of contamination with grease or other build-ups, I replace them. Of course, that also brings up the question of where did the contamination come from...

Since you got the filter almost free, I'd say it was a smart move.