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12 Ways to Extend the Lifespan of Your Vehicle

02.07.2018

Many modern vehicles are designed to be capable of operating for 200,000 miles or more—but how can you give your car the best chance of getting there? Whether you’re looking to drive your car for the next few years—or for the rest of its natural life—following a few basic tips can help reduce maintenance issues, maintain re-sale value, and even add years of operating life.

CLEAN YOUR ENGINE

Clean the exterior of your engine annually to prevent overheating

Keeping the exterior of your engine clean can help you spot leaks before they become serious. Layers of dirt and engine bay grime can hide drips, and can even create an unintentional coating of insulation that can result in your engine running hot—leading to engine damage. Excess crud can also cause corrosion, dramatically shortening your engine’s working lifespan. If you feel like giving it a go yourself, there are plenty of options for engine cleaning/degreasing products on the market, or you can hire a professional. Try to schedule a thorough cleaning at least once yearly.

KEEP YOUR KEYS LIGHT

To avoid damaging your ignition, limit the number of items on your keyring

A heavy keychain can wear out the tumblers in your ignition over time, and can sometimes cause enough damage to prevent your key from engaging the ignition—resulting in an expensive call to a locksmith. Decorative keychains, flashlights, and bottle openers can all add weight to your keyring—so either keep your ignition key separate, or downsize your keyring as much as possible.

TRACK YOUR SERVICE SCHEDULE

Familiarize yourself with your owner’s manual, and take note of the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule. Keep a small notebook in your glove box to take note of any services or repairs—including oil changes, fluid checks, tire rotations, and gas mileage. Sticking to the recommended service schedule will help keep your vehicle running smoothly, and if you decide to sell, buyers will appreciate evidence that you’ve performed consistent maintenance.

CHECK YOUR TIRES FOR INFLATION AND WEAR

Tires should typically be rotated every five to ten thousand miles

Your owner’s manual will likely include the recommended interval for tire rotations—typically every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. Regular rotations help the tires wear evenly over their lifespan, particularly if you have a front-wheel drive vehicle, and can prevent front-end misalignment. You also want to ensure that your tires are inflated to the recommended levels; underinflated tires can cause tread wear and reduce gas mileage, while overinflated tires can result in a loss of traction while also causing premature wear.

REPLACE YOUR AIR FILTER

K&N High-Flow Air Filters are specially designed to provide your engine with increased performance

Your engine air filter protects your engine from contaminants that can cause damage—and is a sometimes-overlooked aspect of necessary regular maintenance. If you choose a disposable filter, it typically needs to be replaced every 15,000 miles or so. K&N High-Flow Air Filters are washable and reusable, and are designed to last for the entire life of your vehicle—so you can enjoy the convenience of only servicing your filter every 50,000 miles under normal highway driving conditions.

BUY GOOD GAS

Make sure you’re filling up with high-quality gasoline

Fuel companies add EPA-approved additives and detergents to their fuel in order to prevent the build-up of carbon deposits that can degrade your engine’s performance. To ensure you’re providing your engine with clean gas, look for Top Tier™ gasoline—a designation that ensures companies are exceeding the minimum additive standard. Preventing fuel build-up can extend the life of your engine dramatically!

CHANGE YOUR OIL AND OIL FILTER REGULARLY

Your oil filter should typically be swapped out at least every other oil change, though changing it every time is ideal. Oil filters contain almost a quart of oil, which—if dirty—can contaminate your freshly changed, clean oil. Many late model car manufacturers recommend long service intervals of 5,000-10,000 miles, so be sure you are using a high-quality oil filter that can go the distance. K&N Performance Gold® oil filters are made with a heavy-duty canister and premium filter media to hold up to the demands of extended use. Always use the oil viscosity grade that your vehicle’s manufacturer recommends—which may vary according to the season.

DON’T NEGLECT FLUID LEVELS

Don’t neglect other fluids—your transmission fluid, radiator coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid all require periodic servicing and replacement according to your manufacturer’s recommended service schedule. It’s a good idea to check all your fluids regularly to help catch any leaks or problems early.

Following your vehicle’s recommended service schedule will help keep you on the road longer

KEEP YOUR CAR CLEAN

Keeping your car clean is an important aspect of maintaining your car’s paint job and body. Salt, in particular, can cause serious rust damage and corrosion—which can eventually creep into the structural components of your vehicle, resulting in thousands of dollars of damage. Wash your car regularly, and if you live in an area where it's frequently exposed to salt—near the beach, or where roads are salted in winter—make sure to give your vehicle’s undercarriage a thorough cleaning with each wash.

PAY ATTENTION

Be aware of new sounds and vibrations. Every couple of weeks, take a minute to roll down your windows as you’re driving around town, and listen for anything out of the ordinary. Squeaks, rattles, and knocks should be investigated and diagnosed. Sound can be one of the first indicators of a problem, and if you catch issues early, you can avoid more serious repairs in the future.

BE PATIENT WITH COLD STARTS

If you let your car sit for more than five hours, you can consider the engine cold—with most of the oil drained into the oil pan. It takes a few seconds after start-up for oil to start circulating through the engine again—meaning you shouldn’t immediately start up and drive off, particularly in cold weather when the oil is more viscous (and moves slower!). Give the engine around 30 seconds to warm up before putting it in gear.

BUDGET FOR REPAIRS

Unexpected car repairs can cause your budget to take a serious hit—which is why it’s important to plan ahead for unforeseen problems in addition to your regular service costs. Setting aside a vehicle-specific emergency fund can help you deal with costly repairs and prevent unnecessary financial stress. If possible, estimate your yearly vehicle costs—including services like oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, and tire rotations—and set aside a bit extra for any unwelcome surprises.

Check out performance parts to help extend the life of your specific vehicle at www.knfilters.com.

K&N®-Sponsored Off-Road Racer Sara Price Earns Top 5 Finish in the Baja 500

22.06.2018

Sara Price just completed her first-ever SCORE International BAJA 500—achieving a commendable 5th place finish in the Trophy Truck Spec class with navigator Erica Sacks. The duo completed all 542 miles together, on a course that many are calling the toughest in Baja 500 history. In preparation, Price and her RPM Offroad teammates logged over 1000 practice miles before the official race even began.

Sara Price and Erica Sacks

Price and Sacks battled fuel pump issues during the race, but the RPM Offroad team was able to execute quick repairs that kept the truck on the course without further issues—allowing them to finish in 14 hours and 47 minutes.

“It was amazing to be able to perform like we did at the 500,” Price commented. “It’s a lifelong dream to be able to complete that race—and to not only drive the whole thing, but also to finish in the top five. Erica and I pre-ran the course and made sure our notes were as detailed as possible. We were focused on being smart and consistent, and along with our incredible team, RPM Offroad and Geiser Brothers, we kept the truck together until the finish line.”

Price's trophy truck

Price will continue to compete in the SCORE International series in the Trophy Truck Spec class under Team RPM Offroad. The SCORE International series includes many desert races on the Baja California Peninsula, including the San Felipe 250, the Baja 500, and the Baja 1000.

Price began racing at the age of eight, and collected nineteen amateur titles in motocross—the most wins of any female amateur to date—going on to medal in the Women’s Super X at the 2010 X Games. She was also the first factory-supported female racer to join Kawasaki. “I believe in actions,” Price noted, “And with that comes respect for your hard work, dedication, and results. Female or male—when that helmet goes on, we are racers.”

Price is a veteran racer in both motocross and off-road

She earned second-place overall in the side-by-side championship of the 2015 Lucas Oil Regional Series, and won the Terracross Championship that same year. In 2016, Price was the first woman to lead laps in the Robby Gordon Stadium SUPER Truck Series, and was named the 2016 Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame Rising Star—a prestigious honor intended to recognize remarkable talent. She has also worked as a professional stuntwoman and precision driver for television and film.

K&N has been a supporter of Price since early in her career. “K&N’s been amazing," she noted. "They’ve been with me from the very beginning. I use the products on every vehicle I have—even on my daily driver, I have a K&N intake installed. You get the most horsepower, and you can trust it—you’re protected.”

Look for Sara Price in the SCORE Tijuana Desert Challenge, taking place from September 19-23 in Tijuana, Mexico.

K&N Donates Performance Parts for Jeep Build Benefiting Santa Fe ECO School

20.06.2018

The Wrangler features a K&N snorkel system for off-road adventures

For the past few months, students in the automotive technology program at Santa Fe Early College Opportunities School (Santa Fe ECO) have been diligently working on a very special vehicle build—sponsored by SEMA and twenty-three automotive aftermarket companies, including K&N. The vehicle—a highly-customized 2015 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited—features over $20,000 in aftermarket parts, and is currently being auctioned to support the program’s vehicle build for the next school year. SEMA will donate 100% of the winning bid back to the school, and Bring-A-Trailer, the auction platform, is picking up the tab for the buyer fee.

Along with traditional academic courses, Santa Fe ECO offers career and technical education courses including bio-medical sciences, business, computer science, engineering, construction, welding, and of course—automotive technology. The early college model allows students to pursue certifications and associate degrees while they complete their high school diplomas—allowing students who might not perform well in a traditional learning environment to thrive and develop skills relevant to their interests and career goals.

Three-quarters view of the Jeep Wrangler

Students at Santa Fe ECO have been working on the build since last fall

Santa Fe ECO’s goal is to create a self-sustaining auto technology program, allowing students to have real-world, hands-on experience each school year to develop the skills needed to be successful in the automotive industry. “When you make learning relevant, it does incredible things, and the Jeep build is a wonderful opportunity for us to do that,” commented Kelly Rinaldi, Assistant Principal of Santa Fe ECO.

The customized Wrangler features the original 3.6L V6 engine with automatic transmission, and has been upgraded with an Edelbrock supercharger and Flowmaster 409S cat-back single exit exhaust system. K&N donated an Aircharger Snorkel System (63-1573), cabin air filter, and premium oil filter to the build.

The original full hardtop and doors are included in the sale

Exterior modifications include front and rear bumpers, high clearance metal front and rear fenders, fender liners, and rocker sliders/steps (donated by Bodyguard Truck Accessories). Lund International provided four Rampage trail doors, and Rugged Ridge provided black hood catches and vents. The suspension has also been customized, and the Jeep has been outfitted with a new winch, headlights, tail lights, custom fuel door, premium seat covers, seatbelts, a floor mat kit, console cover, shift handle kit, sway bars, exterior lighting, and traction tools (among other new features).

“It’s just an awesome opportunity for us to be working with SEMA, and all these different manufacturers to make this happen for us,” commented Chris Coriz, the auto technology instructor. One thing’s for certain—whoever posts the winning bid will not only receive a fantastic, one-of-a-kind off-road vehicle, they will also be supporting aspiring automotive technology students who have already proven themselves ready to meet and exceed challenges.

Do you want to own it? You can view details of the build and bid on the custom Wrangler at www.bringatrailer.com.

K&N® Introduces 77-3104KP Air Intake System for 2017-2018 Chevrolet Colorado V6

07.06.2018

Designed to be compatible with 2017-2018 Chevrolet Colorado 3.6L V6 and GMC Canyon 3.6L V6 models, the K&N® 77-3104KP Air Intake System offers a guaranteed increase in horsepower and torque for Colorado and Canyon owners.

The 77-3104KP features a High-Flow Air Filter with heat shield

The 2018 Chevrolet Colorado is a highly-rated compact pickup truck, featuring a powerful towing capacity (7,000 lbs. on the V6 model), comfortable cabin, and available features including wireless phone charging, forward collision alert, lane departure alert, and a Wi-Fi hot spot (among others). The 3.6L V6 engine offers 308-horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The 2018 GMC Canyon 3.6L V6 also offers a comfortable ride, high-quality interior materials, and multiple tech features—including a rearview camera, USB port, Apple CarPlay, and a six-speaker sound system. The 3.6L V6 engine also provides 308-horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque.

The 77-3104KP after installation

For those looking for an extra boost in horsepower for either of these compact pickup models, the K&N® 77-3104KP Air Intake System can help decrease air turbulence that may slow the volume of airflow reaching your engine. Many factory intake systems have components that can be consolidated in order to direct airflow more efficiently.

The K&N® 77-3104KP air intake system is a free-flowing, mandrel-bent polished aluminum tube cold air intake system designed to replace the factory air filter and air intake components. The included polished aluminum intake tube is engineered to be aerodynamic, and the High-Flow™ Air Filter (also included in the kit) also helps increase airflow to your engine—while simultaneously providing exceptional protection from contaminants. The oversized conical filter shape allows for up to 100,000 miles between cleanings (under normal highway driving conditions). When it does need to be cleaned, you can use the K&N Recharger® Kit (99-5000) to quickly and easily restore your filter’s performance. Each intake and filter is designed to last for the life of your vehicle.

The 2016 Chevrolet Colorado 3.6L V6 is compatible with the 63-3088 intake system

The 77-3104KP system also features a custom powder-coated aluminum heat shield which protects the air filter and intake air from high engine temperatures. The heat shield installs onto the lower factory air box and retains the fresh air inlet. The air intake tube funnels airflow directly into the engine’s throttle body, offering a guaranteed increase in horsepower and torque.

Since the kit utilizes existing factory mounting points, requires only basic hand tools, and incorporates the factory mass air sensor, installation can typically be completed in 90 minutes or less.

Using a K&N replacement air intake system will not void your factory warranty (as some consumers may think); in the U.S., manufacturers must provide evidence that an aftermarket part is the cause of a necessary repair in order to void or deny warranty coverage. The Consumer Products Warranty Act of 1975 (also known as the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act) protects consumers’ rights to their warranty coverage.

You are guaranteed to experience an increase in horsepower and torque with your new K&N air intake system. On a chassis dynamometer, a 2017 Chevrolet Colorado V6 with the stock air intake was recorded at 217.2-hp at 6,498rpm, and after installation of the 77-3104KP the same vehicle was recorded at 231.7-hp at 6,498rpm—an estimated increase of 14.5-hp. The torque was also improved from 182.9 lb-ft on the stock air intake to 190.6 lb-ft with the 77-3104KP—a total estimated increase in torque of 7.7 lb-ft at 3,734rpm. You can buy with confidence under the 10-Year/Million Mile Limited Warranty, and the assurance that you’re receiving top quality when you purchase a K&N product.

The 77-3104KP is designed for use in the following vehicles:

2018 GMC Canyon 3.6L V6 Fuel Injection: All Models

2018 Chevrolet Colorado 3.6L V6 Fuel Injection: All Models

2017 GMC Canyon 3.6L V6 Fuel Injection: All Models

2017 Chevrolet Colorado 3.6L V6 Fuel Injection: All Models

FAQs

• Will using a K&N® replacement air intake system void my factory warranty?

No. In the United States, in order for the manufacturer of a warranted product to void or deny warranty coverage of a repair due to the use of an aftermarket part, the manufacturer must provide proof that the aftermarket part is the cause of the necessary repair. These rights are protected under the Consumer Products Warranty Act of 1975 (also referred to as the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act).

• Are K&N® performance air intake systems or RK-series custom air cleaner assemblies emissions legal in the U.S.?

Performance intake systems are legal for street use in most areas of the United States.

In California, and in specific regions which have adopted California air quality regulations, only CARB-exempt performance intakes are legal for street use.

Check the K&N catalog or website for vehicle applications and specific CARB status for each vehicle and air intake.

• Can a K&N® product cause my Check Engine Light or Service Light to come on?

It is possible that the Check Engine Light may come on after installing a K&N air filter or performance intake system. This does not necessarily mean that there is something wrong with your air filter or intake; sometimes, the higher air flow and lower restriction provided by the K&N product will uncover an existing mechanical or electronic issue with your vehicle. In rare cases, you may have a K&N product which was manufactured outside of its design tolerances, causing sensors in your vehicle to read data outside of their normal expected values. In either case, the K&N Warranty Department can work with you to narrow down the cause of the Check Engine Light and correct the issue.

• How much horsepower does a K&N® cold air intake add?

Dynamometer tests indicating horsepower and torque increases over the OEM intake system will appear on the "Product Details" page for each of our performance intake systems.

• What does a cold air intake do for a car?

Cold air intakes allow for increased airflow to your engine, which results in an increase in torque and acceleration for your vehicle.

• Can cold air intakes improve gas mileage?

In theory, a cold air intake could increase the gas mileage of your vehicle due to improved airflow which allows the engine to run more efficiently and require less fuel. However, K&N does not make any guarantees in terms of increased gas mileage with the use of our filters or intakes.

*Some intake systems are not legal for sale or use on any pollution controlled motor vehicle in California or states adopting California emission procedures. See knfilters.com for CARB status on each part for a specific vehicle.

K&N®-Sponsored Lucas Oil Protection Trucks Help Save Racers’ Lives

04.06.2018

Regardless of the type of track or vehicle—dirt or pavement, off-road or drifting—racers live on the edge. With every race comes the possibility of serious injury—and for drivers in many Lucas Oil Off-Road Series events, that’s when the K&N® Lucas Oil Protection Team steps in to help avert disaster.

A Lucas Oil Protection Team Toyota Tundra

The Lucas Oil Protection Team vehicles have to be able to handle rough and dirty terrain with ease

The K&N Lucas Oil Protection Team is trained to reach racers in crisis within seconds of an accident. Whether it’s flipping a truck, putting out a fire, or extricating a trapped driver, these professionals—many of whom are off-duty firefighters and EMTs—are scattered throughout the course and ready to save lives at a moment’s notice. To reach drivers in danger, of course, the team has to have safety vehicles capable of traversing all terrains. The fleet of K&N protection trucks—five Toyota Tundras featuring K&N filters—has to be able to manage demanding off-road environments with speed and agility in order to reach racers in danger. And, of course, they rely on K&N filters to help keep their engines clean in those dusty and muddy environments.

The protection team in action, helping a driver flip a vehicle

“In virtually every race, there’s a crash that’s so spectacular that you wonder how the driver walks away—and it’s because our crew is right there instantly to help out,” commented Alex Striler, Director of Sales and Marketing for Team Lucas. “Without K&N’s support, we probably could not continue the racing to the extent that we do.”

And it’s no exaggeration—with fifteen to twenty vehicles hurtling toward the same tight turn, dangerous collisions are a common occurrence. The protection trucks have to be capable of navigating off-road tracks that would be inaccessible to your average vehicle—and they have to be able to do so quickly.

K&N sponsors a fleet of protection vehicles for the Lucas Oil Off-Road Racing Series, all featuring

“The performance on the truck is incredibly important. We’ve got a system in place with K&N that can take in the volume of dust and dirt that [off-roading] might create,” commented Greg Cozzo of Lucas Oil Racing TV. Each of the Tundras has a K&N High-Flow Air Filter™ (available for almost every make and model at www.knfilters.com), which is washable, reusable, and able to protect the engine even in particulate-heavy environments. “Maintenance is critical,” added Alex Striler. “Before every event, we have to do full maintenance. With the reusables, we just inspect them and put them back on—it makes it very easy and convenient.”

We know that the drivers in the Lucas Oil Off-Road Series feel confident in the expertise and dedication of their protection team—and the protection team has confidence in their trucks, knowing that they’re protected by Lucas Oil and K&N Filters.

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