“It’s time for a cabin air filter change.” When you hear that, you’re likely wondering what this part is and why you have to replace it.
A cabin air filter is located either behind the glove compartment, under the hood or under the dashboard, depending on your vehicle. It’s designed to prevent dust, pollen, and other airborne contaminants from getting inside your vehicle.
This component will filter air that comes through the vehicle’s HVAC system. For those suffering from seasonal allergies, keeping the filter clean can make a big difference.
Replacing the cabin air filter on a regular basis also helps extend the blower motor’s lifespan by keeping it from being overworked.
An engine air filter has a similar purpose. It helps keep dirt, buildup, and debris from getting into your vehicle’s engine system. Over time, things may collect in the engine air filter and cause problems for your vehicle down the road if they’re not taken care of.
If you don’t change the engine air filter when this service is recommended, it could limit how much air goes into the throttle body. This can bog the motor down and stall it out.
Changing out the cabin air filter and engine air filter
Cabin air filter from Toyota Corolla
In order to reap the full benefits of a cabin air filter and an engine air filter, you need to make sure these items are swapped out regularly. As with any filter, they get dirty and clogged, and lose their effectiveness over time until they’re replaced.
But how often should you be changing out the engine and cabin air filters? It depends on the type of vehicle, your preferences, and the conditions you drive in regularly. Both filters should be checked during every oil change and replaced when dusty or dirty. This is included in our shop’s courtesy inspection.
A musty smell could indicate that the cabin air filter should be replaced. Its lifespan can be impacted by whether you mainly use dirt roads or highways. Sometimes, rodents will chew this filter and set up nests in the engine, airbox and other spots.
Engine air filter replacement may be suggested based on mileage. These recommendations come from the manufacturer.
Other forms of maintenance
Honda air filter being checked during an oil change
The filters aren’t the only items that can have an impact. You should also keep an eye on the cowling area. Pine needles, twigs, leaves and other debris can collect here, potentially blocking water drains. So, it’s a good idea to clean it off occasionally, especially in the fall and winter.
Next time you’re getting your vehicle serviced, make sure they check your cabin air filter and your engine air filter, and see if new ones are needed.
Before having a new cabin air filter installed, you can also ask if using BG Frigi Fresh is an option. This disinfectant is sprayed into the vents, getting rid of bacteria, mold and viruses.
Mass airflow sensor cleaning is another service. There’s a mass airflow sensor that sits in front of the engine air filter and measures all of the metered air coming into the motor. Sometimes, dirt and debris can get in, causing the vehicle to run rough.
Steve’s Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Goodyear tire dealer located in Woodbridge, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including BMW and Mercedes. Services include oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.