Are you looking for ways to save money on your vehicle maintenance needs? If so, there are some simple things you can do to keep your vehicle in optimum condition without taking it to the shop as frequently.
Most vehicle owners are capable of replacing their vehicle’s various filters once they learn how the process works. Replacing your own filters and changing your own oil can help you save money, but you need to make sure you follow your owner’s manual so you know how frequently your oil and various filters need replacement.
Once it’s time to replace any or all of your filters (such as your air, fuel and oil filters), you’ll need to order the right replacement filters for your car. This is where it can be overwhelming to try to sift through the many different filter types and select the one you need. Fortunately, you can use a VIN decoder to ensure you purchase the right type of filter. Here’s how knowing your VIN number can help with filter replacement.
Shows Make and Model
When you look up your VIN number, you’ll see the make and model of your vehicle. This is the most basic information you’ll need anytime you search for filter replacements online. It will also help you see how frequently you should change your filters in case you no longer have a physical copy of your owner’s manual.
It’s important to change all filters in your car as recommended, but it’s even more important to change your oil filter than it is to change your air filter. If you have poor oil filter function, it can damage your engine and allow sludge to flow through it. Left untreated for too long, sludgy oil can lead to total engine failure.
Good fuel filter function is also very important. You may have a clogged fuel filter if you notice any of the following fuel filter symptoms:
- Problems starting your engine
- Frequent engine stalling
- A check engine light
- Problems accelerating at low speeds
- Engine misfires
- A rough idle
If you notice any of these issues, change your fuel filter immediately. If the symptoms still don’t improve, take your car to the shop for diagnosis.
Shows Engine Size and Components
Another benefit of using your VIN number to help you order parts is that it will show your engine size and its components. This information helps you avoid ordering the wrong parts for your engine size and saves you time when shopping for the right parts.
Get Replacement Filters for Your Car
Now that you know how important it is to replace your filters as your owner’s manual recommends, don’t waste your time browsing through various filters for hours on end. You can narrow your search results so you only see the components that work for your car when you use your vehicle’s VIN number.
You can find your VIN number on the driver’s side dashboard. Look in the corner where the windshield meets the dashboard and you should see your VIN number on a metal plate. If you can’t find it there, you may be able to find it on the driver’s side car frame (inside the door).
