Your car’s cabin air filter really puts in the work to keep your air clean from dust and pollutants while you’re on the road, especially in places like urban areas, traffic congestion, and industrial zones where all sorts of these particles lurk. But to keep it performing at its best, regular filter replacements are necessary. So, how often should you replace your cabin air filter? Let’s find out together.
When to Replace Your Cabin Air Filter
On average, most manufacturers recommend replacing your cabin air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or once a year. However, this should also depend largely on factors like the type of car you have, the environments you drive in (and how polluted they are), and the type of filter you use. For example, if you frequently drive in polluted areas, consider replacing your cabin filter sooner than once a year. On the other hand, if you don’t use your car as much throughout the year, you may be able to wait longer for its next replacement, but it never hurts to check the filter to be safe.
If you’re unsure when you last replaced your cabin air filter or how many miles it has been since replacement, no worries! Mechanics typically inspect it during your oil changes as part of a check-up to see if it needs replacing.
Other Times to Change Your Cabin Air Filter
So we’ve covered when to replace your cabin air filter, but let’s take a look at other times to consider a replacement:
- Before allergy season starts: If you suffer from allergies, replacing your cabin filter right before allergy season hits is the best way to prevent your allergies from worsening while driving.
- Unpleasant odor: If you start to notice an odd or funky smell in your car, consider checking your cabin filter for replacement. A fresh new filter can help eliminate these odors.
- Intense use: If you’ve taken your car on a long road trip or driven it through heavily dusty and dirty areas, it’s a good idea to check the filter and consider replacing it. Intense driving situations, such as road trips or driving in polluted areas, can dirty your filter sooner!
Why Regular Cabin Air Filter Changes Are Necessary
Making sure you swap out your cabin air filter regularly is key to keeping the air inside your car clean and fresh. This filter acts like a shield, blocking out all the nasty stuff from getting into your lungs as you drive through polluted areas. Neglecting to change it can cause issues like foggy windows and funky odor. If you want to know more about what can happen when you skip this maintenance task, check out our blog “What Happens If You Don’t Replace Your Cabin Air Filter?” If you’re not sure how to find or change your cabin air filter, our blog also covers those, too.
Find Cabin Air Filters at Discount Filters
At Discount Filters, we prioritize your safety and comfort by offering premium car cabin air filters that ensure clean, fresh air for you and your passengers. Regardless of how much time you spend in your car, the air you breathe shouldn’t compromise your health! Our filters are designed to last up to 30,000 miles and are user-friendly, allowing for easy replacement in just a few minutes for most cars. Of course, finding the right cabin air filter for your car is also important – simply enter the year, make, model, and engine type on our website to find your correct cabin air filter.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
Will a dirty cabin filter affect AC?
Since cabin air filters trap dust and other debris, a dirty filter can directly impact your air conditioner’s ability to cool. You may notice that cool air taking longer to kick in. Over time, this can lead to unnecessary strain on the entire system.
How to unclog a cabin air filter?
First, locate and remove the cabin air filter. Then, shake the filter gently to displace any loose dirt and debris. Next, use a handheld vacuum cleaner to remove the remaining dirt from the filter. After that, spray an air filter cleaner following the directions on the container. Then, use a toothbrush or other soft brush to scrub the filter. Rinse the filter thoroughly, let it air dry, and then reinstall it once it’s fully dried. Important note: While cleaning can help unclog a dirty cabin filter, it may not remove all pollutants. It’s always a good idea to completely replace the filter to be safe.
What happens if I don’t change the cabin air filter?
Not changing your cabin air filter when necessary can allow pollutants to enter your vehicle, leading to health issues for those who suffer from allergies or have breathing issues. Additionally, the filter may start to develop mold, causing further health problems.
Do cars really need cabin air filters?
Cabin air filters are an essential part of your vehicle. They keep out harmful irritants and pollutants from entering your car. They also help improve the airflow from your vehicle’s heating and air conditioning system.