What are you running for an air filter?

[Daox]

I've been thinking about preparing the Mirage for winter. I've been putting together a growing list of things I'd like to take care of before the cold really sets in. One of those things is an engine air filter. I haven't changed it since getting the car and it is looking a little grungy.

So, I first checked out Rock Auto to see what they got. Their prices range from a really low $6 to $14 for a nice WIX brand filter. I would rather go with the WIX, but if there is good feedback on cheap ones I'll consider them. Anyway, tack on a few bucks for shipping.

Next, I checked Amazon. They have a Premium Guard air filter for $13.50 shipped via prime which seems pretty decent, but I've never heard of Premium Guard. On the plus side, their picture doesn't make the rubber look like its a gooey mess, so that is a plus.

So, what are you guys using?

[inuvik]

I've been using a Hastings AF1687. Good filter. It's available via Rock Auto and there probably is some local auto parts near you that carries them or can order them in.

[Alex1a1f]

Ecogard XA10388. Seemed comparable quality to OEM at half the price. $11.36 prime ��

[Fummins]

I used to use wix. They were pretty good. Now I use cheapo "Ultra 8" brand. part number 360-0528. They are cheaply made compared to wix. Lighter, flimsy not as many pleats/far less surface area. The cheopo brand needs to be changed fairly frequently compared to the Mitsubishi or Wix filters.

[tomrad]

I bought a Wix. Although, Hastings, Purolator, Mitsubishi, all are probably fine. Rock Auto had best price on the Wix.

[Mark]

Advance Auto Parts has a CarQuest engine air filter for $7.99.

[Cobrajet]

Believe it or not, I am still running my original filter at 103k. I keep checking it, and it still doesn't need to be changed! I think I will do it anyway soon.

[Eggman]

Believe it or not, I am still running my original filter at 103k.

Me too, except I'm at 21k miles.

[tomrad]

I felt guilty so changed mine at 60k. It wasn't too bad.

[Daox]

Believe it or not, I am still running my original filter at 103k. I keep checking it, and it still doesn't need to be changed! I think I will do it anyway soon.

I did that once with my 2003 Matrix. I figured by cleaning it out here and there with a vacuum and blasting it with compressed air it would be fine. Well, as it turns out it was not. I did an oil analysis after maybe 30k miles of using the same air filter. Even though the air filter looked good, silicon (dust) was high in my oil. The recommendation from Blackstone Labs was to replace the air filter. I did, and the next oil analysis after another 10k miles was perfect.