Everyone knows the importance of changing out the air filters in your home. But don’t forget about your car’s air filter!
The US EPA notes that the concentration of pollutants is often 2-5 times higher indoors than outdoors. And the air quality could be just as bad (if not worse) in your car. After all, Northern Virginia’s air quality is notoriously poor, particularly because of vehicle emissions.
Drivers often forget about or neglect the cabin air filter. But regularly replacing your car’s cabin air filter is just as important as changing out the filters in your home. Keep reading to learn about what your car’s air filter does and how often to replace the cabin air filter.
What Does a Cabin Air Filter Do?
Most modern vehicles have at least one cabin air filter. This small, pleated filter is made of natural or synthetic fibers. The filter cleans air coming through the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. It traps dust, pollen, allergens and other pollutants to provide a healthier, more enjoyable environment for you and your passengers.
Higher-quality filters, like high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, are more effective at trapping smaller particles like soot, mold spores and germs. And some filters are treated with activated carbon and/or baking soda to neutralize unpleasant odors.
The cabin air filter also blocks dust and debris from entering your HVAC system. If debris clogs up the HVAC evaporator, the evaporator is less efficient, placing undue strain on the blower motor. Plus, a blocked evaporator contributes to mold development, which causes a musty smell and presents a health hazard.
Depending on the model of your vehicle, your cabin air filter may be located
- Behind the glove box/glove compartment
- Beneath the dashboard
- Under the hood
Real-world examples of dirty filters our team found in our customers’ cars!
How Often Should You Replace the Cabin Air Filter?
Virginia Tire & Auto recommends replacing the cabin air filter(s) every 15,000–30,000 miles or at the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended mileage. Check your owner’s manual to find the recommended mileage interval for your vehicle. Regardless, inspect the filter at least once a year (we check it during every oil change).
Some drivers may need to change their filters more often depending on environmental factors. Driving on dirt roads, smoking in the vehicle or transporting animals in the vehicle affect how frequently the filter needs to be changed. Daily driving in congested traffic (like in NoVA) also accelerates the timeline for filter replacement.
Monitor your vehicle’s performance to know if it’s time for an “as-needed” filter replacement. Signs you need to change the cabin filter include:
- Reduced or weak air flow through vents
- Persistent musty, dirty, or unpleasant odors in the air
- Whistling or excessive noise when the HVAC is on
- Difficulty clearing fog or condensation on windows
- Worsened allergies and/or breathing problems
Note: Never attempt to clean a dirty filter or blow it out with compressed air. Compressed air may damage the filter media, and you won’t be able to remove what is already embedded in the filter.
Engine Air Filter vs. Cabin Air Filter
You may be wondering, “What is the difference between an engine air filter and a cabin filter?” Here’s the short answer:
The engine air filter prevents dirt and debris from getting inside your engine. A clogged engine filter causes poor fuel efficiency, lower engine performance and higher emissions.
The cabin air filter prevents dirt and debris from getting inside your vehicle cabin. A dirty cabin filter affects the cabin’s air quality and the performance of the heater and A/C.
Both the engine and cabin air filters generally need to be replaced every 15,000-30,000 miles. So, if you plan to change one, plan to inspect and potentially change the other too.
Read: The Essential Car Maintenance Checklist
How Much Does Cabin Air Filter Replacement Cost?
Installing a filter is typically a quick 5- to 10-minute service, but it depends on the vehicle. The air filter is more difficult to access in some models. In that case, it will take our technicians a little bit longer to replace it.
Filter replacement services generally cost $30-100. The cost will vary depending on the filter’s quality and location in the vehicle.
At Virginia Tire & Auto, we inspect your cabin air filter as part of our 25-point courtesy inspection. We will let you know if it needs to be replaced soon. We always recommend following your vehicle manufacturer’s maintenance schedule for air filter replacement and other services.
Breathe Easy with Air Filter Replacement at Virginia Tire & Auto
Next time you change out the filters in your home, think about changing the filter in your car as well. Replace your car’s cabin air filter for a breath of fresh air! Drop by one of our convenient locations or schedule a visit online for air filter replacement service.
The post Breathe Easy: How Often to Replace the Cabin Air Filter appeared first on Virginia Tire & Auto.