Tips to Maintain the Air Intake System for Your Mini Cooper in Summer
28 May, 18
The MINI brand is a pioneer in revolutionizing how cars perform. Their engines are versatile, which allows average drivers and enthusiasts alike to appreciate their cars. If you own a Mini Cooper, then you’re fortunate and privileged to drive such a quality piece of machinery. However, in order for your MINI to continue performing up to its high standards, it’s critical to make sure you follow a routine maintenance schedule. Furthermore, it’s important to be aware of how your MINI may be affected by the changing seasons throughout the year and act preventively.
You Mini Cooper is comprised of many different components and systems which require ongoing care, especially during the summer months of the year when the temperatures can reach triple digits. One of the most important systems in your car to attend to in preparation for summer weather is the air intake system. If you’re not sure what the air intake system does for your MINI, you’re not alone—most drivers aren’t sure what the air intake system is responsible for. In this article, we’ll go over some basic information about the air intake system and what you can do to help it perform well during the summer.
Why It’s Important to Keep the Intake System Clean
The basic function of the air intake system in your MINI is to act as the engine’s set of lungs, breathing in and filtering the air that circulates throughout. Your MINI utilizes a precise ratio of oxygen and fuel in order to properly combust and ignite—if it’s not able to obtain the necessary amount of oxygen it requires, engine performance will suffer. It’s especially important to maintain the air intake system in your MINI prior to the summer months because the low moisture in the air creates more dust, dirt, and debris for your intake to filter through it. Furthermore, during warmer months the engine requires more air circulating through it to cool it, combatting the high temperatures that can lead to engine overheating.
Tips for Maintaining and Cleaning the System
With basic automotive knowledge, many individuals attempt to clean and maintain their own air intake system. However, as luxury performance vehicles, Mini Coopers require a specialized level of care. If you do attempt to clean or maintain the system yourself, it’s important to follow a few tips:
Use the Right Products and Materials
The air intake system in your MINI is composed of several different parts and pieces that can buildup carbon deposits, leading to clogged airways. In order to keep this from happening, it’s important to keep the intake system clean. Most people use oil and a rag to keep the intake system clean and free-flowing, but you might want to consult with your trusted MINI specialist on what the best products and materials are for your own MINI.
Check Out the Filter
The air filter is the number one most important aspect of your air intake system to keep clean year round. Many people simply replace the filter when it’s dirty, which can wind up being expensive over time. You can also vacuum brush the air filter to your liking, or delicately use a cleaning brush to scrub it clean.
Have an Overall Inspection Performed
Before summer hits, it’s best to have an inspection of the air intake system performed. Certain parts of your intake can move and shift over time, so they may need to be readjusted to make sure nothing is rubbing or causing friction or excess heat, and therefore premature wear of parts. Your automotive specialist should inspect the MAF sensor, the throttle body, the air filter, and the various valves for carbon buildup.
What We Can Do to Help You
The German Master technicians here at Santa Barbara Autowerks, located in beautiful Santa Barbara, CA, are experts in MINI vehicles. We utilize a preventive approach to automotive care for our clients so that they can enjoy an optimally-performing driving experience all year. Summer can be brutal on our cars, and it’s important to keep up on basic maintenance tasks—including taking good care of the air intake system. If you’d like to schedule an inspection or would like to learn more about how to best care for your own intake system, please contact one of our knowledgeable, helpful MINI experts.
* Yellow Mini Cooper image credit goes to: CasPhotography.