An air filter element is typically replaced after accumulated mileage of 10 to 20 thousand kilometers. Early replacement is required if it works in a harsh environment since performance degradation may endanger safe drives.

An air filter element that has been used for an extended period may be unable to filter out air particles effectively. The consequences may include accelerated engine wear and carbon build-up, shorter life cycle of the engine, and mechanical scratches on the engine in serious cases. Timely replacement of air filter elements is therefore necessary.

Steps for replacing an air filter element:

1. Open the engine hood and take out the air filter element, which is typically located to the left of the engine and above the left front tyre. The air filter element is installed in a gray-and-black plastic box either with screws or fasteners. In the case of fasteners, the element can be easily removed by lifting the two metal fasteners gently. In the case of screws, the screws on the air filter element box must be loosened before removal of the air filter element.

2. After the air filter element is taken out, clean off carbon deposit and dirt on inner and outer surfaces of the air filter element box with towel. Never use cold water for cleaning.

3. Install a new air filter element. Distinguish between front and back sides. A protruding plastic board in the right bottom corner of the air filter element is intended to prevent the air filter element from being installed upside down. Installation of the air filter element is successful after the plastic board is inserted into the slot of the filter element base.

4. Reinstall other components.

Advantages of vika air filter elements:

1. Air outlet surfaces: On the seal ring and in the installation point, polyurethane foam sealing agent (double-ingredient polyurethane PU glue) is applied to bond filter paper for sealing.

2. Filter paper: mainly for intercepting and filtering impurities.

3. Air inlet surfaces: The binder (PO) ensures airtightness between filter paper pieces.
PU glue provides good sealing when a vika filter element is loaded into an enclosure. The required Shore hardness for the PU glue is 25±3. In contrast, in products of other brands, air leakage may occur due to inadequate foaming.

Filter paper bonding: After the paper is folded, the hot melt glue should be applied evenly on both sides. Bonding should be completed in the time period corresponding to optimum status of the glue (3S).