Does my Hummer need an air filter?

[Ken Bowers]

I have a 2003 orange Hummer H2 with 104,000 miles.

My question is whether it really needs an air filter.

My father always threw his air filter away and drove without it. He claimed cars don't need air filters. The dust in the air ends up in the oil, which you replace anyway when it gets dark. You get better gas milage without an air filter. (says he)

I have never dared to follow his advice. Anyone have any input here?