The air cabin filter works to keep pollutants, allergens, and contaminants out of your car’s interior. Over time, continued use will clog it with dirt and debris. Below, Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville shows you how to change the cabin air filter.
How To Change The Cabin Air Filter In 7 Steps
Generally, most automakers locate the filter behind the glovebox. A few put them under the hood, while others place them behind the dash on the passenger side.
Typically, learning how to change the cabin air filter is a straightforward task that most people can do themselves. Below are the instructions for changing the filters located behind the glovebox. For all others, refer to your vehicle owner’s manual for specifics.
- Remove the contents of your glovebox.
- Unscrew or unclip the glovebox.
- Pull out the glovebox.
- Carefully remove the filter to avoid spilling dirt and debris.
- Vacuum the inside housing and wipe with a damp cloth.
- Install the new air filter according to the proper orientation.
- Replace the glovebox.
Types Of Filters
When it’s time to change your cabin air filter, you have 3 different categories of products. Each has varying dirt and pollutant trapping capacities:
- Particulate
This is the most commonly used cabin filter. Particulate filters can remove 90-95% of airborne particles.
- Activated Charcoal
Typically, these filters capture 98% of particles. Plus, manufacturers add baking soda and activated charcoal to remove smells and harmful gases like nitrogen dioxide.
- HEPA
Sometimes called electrostatic, these filters use static electricity to capture dirt, dust, and other airborne particles. This allows them to trap very small sized particles, like cigarette smoke, diesel carbon, and ozone.
Which one is best for your car? Usually, you need to consider your health needs, driving environment, and budget. If you’re having trouble deciding, talk to one of our technicians. They’ll be happy to discuss the benefits of each and help you make a good decision.
How To Tell It’s Time To Change Your Cabin Filter
With all the other car maintenance, you may want to skip learning how to change the cabin air filter. However, this component also serves as the heat and air conditioner filter. As it becomes clogged, the HVAC components will work harder to push air through the vents. This strain causes parts to wear out faster and reduces your fuel economy.
Typically, most automotive experts recommend a cabin filter replacement every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or once a year. However, certain environmental conditions may require you to change it more often. For example, frequently driving on dirt roads kicks up dust, while city driving exposes your filter to more exhaust fumes.
It’s time to change your filter if you notice one or more of these signs:
- Bad odor blowing from the vents
- Weak airflow
- Windows fogging up
A Short History Of The Cabin Air Filter
Admittedly, automakers didn’t always use cabin filters. The idea for this product began in 1957 with a board member of a manufacturing company and his chauffeur. As the story goes, the driver placed a piece of nonwoven fabric over the air intake vents. He was trying to keep dirty air from entering the cabin and soiling his clothes.
Eventually, the manufacturing company, Freudenberg, developed and launched this new product in 1989. At first, only the Mercedes-Benz SL roadster featured it as standard equipment. Yet, within weeks, Freudenberg secured contracts from BMW, VW, and Audi.
In America, automakers began offering cabin filters in some cars in 1995. However, increasing demand from consumers led car manufacturers to include them in all vehicles by the early 2000s.
FAQs
Are you wondering if your car’s uncomfortable cabin temperature is a clogged filter? Below, we answer a few commonly asked questions about cabin air filters.
How Much Will It Cost To Have An Auto Shop Replace It?
Typically, your cost depends on the make, model, and year of your vehicle. Additionally, the type and brand will vary in price. On average, you’ll pay between $75 and $115 for a cabin filter replacement.
Can I Drive My Vehicle Without An Air Cabin Filter?
Driving without a filter will allow harmful particles and pollutants to enter your car’s HVAC system. Without an AC filter, dust and dirt can clog internal components, decreasing efficiency and increasing wear and tear.
Moreover, allergens and contaminants will be free to enter the cabin. Imagine sitting in traffic with the exhaust fumes from the surrounding cars circulating within your vehicle’s interior. Breathing these pollutants can lead to severe health consequences.
Does It Matter Which Cabin Air Filter I Buy?
Absolutely! Using a quality cabin filter ensures that every time you drive, you inhale clean air. Moreover, some cheaper brands may use less expensive, lower-quality materials that don’t last as long. Additionally, some use washable materials that are reusable.
Where Is The Best Place To Get My Cabin Filter Replaced?
For over 25 years, Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville has been helping car owners maintain their automobiles. Our customers love us for our fast, friendly service as well as our quality work. Furthermore, our full-service auto shop handles everything from general repair and maintenance to car washing and hand detailing services.
Call us today at 336-904-6319 to make an appointment to change your air cabin filter. Clean air is not just about comfort. It’s also a health benefit.
