I was going to check the air filter's condition, but to my horror I found only a filter frame. Now I am very worried, since I have no idea how long ago this has happened, and what damage it could have already done to the engine.

And my biggest question is, why would somebody do this? Why not just take out the filter if one doesn't want it for some reason? Worse, could the filter been sucked into the engine?

 

guess its time to rebuild....

That's weird I would think someone cut it out? did you ask the guy you bought it from? he should know

 

Put a new filter in, go and sin no more. You probably have lost something off the life of the engine, but if it is running well you likely have no serious problems. If you start having difficulties starting, idling, or at high power, you might have the compression checked.

Why? See my signature.

 

why would a rebuild be necessary because of this discovery?

but like what was already said, just put in a new filter and you should be fine

 

sorry I was just kidding about the rebuild. I wouldnt worry about it, other than telling the guy you bought it from that your pissed off.

 

WTF ?! people these days I swear

 

They probably thought cutting the filter up let more air in... I had a stupid friend brag that he cut holes in his Grand Am's air filter, so whoever had your car before you probably did the same. Swap in a new one like everyone says, it's probably fine.

 

I swear...some people.....good thing the car is in better hands now!
-John

 

talk about being retarded....

 

Unfortunately local auto part carriers seem to be out of stock on RX-7 filters. Guess my car is grounded until a new K&N filter arrives by mail...