In every car, there is a cabin air filter. It is different from the engine air filter, which cleans the air for the engine. Instead, the cabin air filter purifies the air that flows through the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. The cabin air filter is easy to forget about and is overlooked, but it’s usually inspected during an oil change. This makes it a convenient time to think about if it’s due for a replacement and how often to replace an air filter in your car.
The Role a Cabin Air Filter Plays In Your Car
Just like any air filter, the cabin air filter works by capturing dust, pollen, smog, and other harmful or irritating particles from the air that flows through it. It acts as a barrier between you and the outside environment while driving, ensuring that you and your passengers breathe cleaner, healthier air inside your car.
Issues That Occur From Not Changing Your Cabin Air Filter
Not changing your cabin air filter when you should creates a few noticeable issues:
Odor
As the cabin air filter traps dust, dirt, and other particles from outside, it can get clogged over time, leading to unpleasant odors. If mold and mildew start growing in the filter, they can also lead to bad smells.
Fog Build-up on Windows
An old and clogged cabin air filter will lead to poor air circulation. This can cause condensation to form on your windshield and other windows, which is particularly dangerous when driving in rainy or foggy conditions.
Whistling Sound and Other Noises
When a cabin air filter needs changing, it tends to create a whistling sound from the cabin air intake ducts. You may also notice other types of sounds occurring when you run the heating or cooling system.
Your Health Is At Risk
A dirty cabin air filter collects moisture, and you know what loves moist places? Mold and mildew. Gross, right? Besides causing foul odor as mentioned earlier, an unclean cabin air filter with mold and mildew can make you sick. Plus, since the filter can’t trap more particles like dust and pollen, you end up breathing unfiltered air in your car, which can worsen allergies and respiratory problems.
Where Is My Cabin Air Filter Located?
So, it’s clear you should replace your cabin air filter, but where do you find it? Commonly, a cabin air filter is found behind the glove compartment, but they can also be found in other areas, too, like under the hood or behind the dashboard.
Behind the Glove Compartment
If you need to access the filter behind the glove compartment, you’ll usually start by taking off a small panel from the back of the compartment. Sometimes, though, you might have to remove the entire glove compartment. Then, you’ll be able to access the filter housing and replace the filter.
Under the Hood
In older vehicles, you will often find the cabin air filter under the hood. To access it, start by lifting the hood of your vehicle. Look for the cowl area, which is the space between the windshield and the hood. This is where the cabin air filter will be found. Next, carefully remove the cowl panel or cover that protects the filter. After removing the panel or cover, you will have direct access to the cabin air filter.
Behind the Dashboard
Finding the cabin air filter behind the dashboard is a less common area, and accessing it can be a bit tricky depending on your vehicle. In some cars, you might get lucky and reach the cabin air filter without taking apart any trim or dash panels. However, for others, it’s a bit more complicated and requires you to remove these parts. Refer to your car’s manual or consult with a professional if you’re not comfortable tackling this task.
Find Cabin Air Filters at Discount Filters
Take care of yourself and keep the air in your car fresh by changing your cabin air filter regularly. At Discount Filters, we’re all about making sure you get the best. Our premium cabin air filters ensure that the air you breathe while driving is clean and healthy. If you ever need to replace them yourself, our filters are super easy to change and only take a few minutes. Check your cabin air filter today!
Other Frequently Asked Questions
Is it OK to drive without a cabin air filter?
While you can drive your car without a cabin air filter, it’s still important to replace it. Not having a cabin air filter in place exposes you and your passengers to unfiltered air that circulates harmful and irritating particles inside your car.
What happens after you change your cabin air filter?
After changing your cabin air filter, you will notice that your air conditioning and heating systems work more efficiently. Your cabin will cool down much more quickly in hotter months and will warm up more quickly in colder months.
Can I replace my cabin air filter myself?
Most cabin air filters can be replaced within 15 minutes without any special tools. However, there are some that could take a little longer, requiring the removal of fasteners that hold the glove compartment or interior trim panels in place. If you need help, check with your local auto repair shop, but most of the time you can replace your own cabin air filter.
Are all cabin air filters universal?
Just like air filters, different vehicles require different cabin air filters. Ensure you find the right cabin air filter for your vehicle by using our search tool by entering the year, make, model, and engine type.