12 Jun 2024Cabin filters, often overlooked by car owners, play a crucial role in maintaining the quality of air inside your vehicle.
These filters are essential for ensuring that you and your passengers breathe clean air while driving, protecting both your health and the efficiency of your vehicle’s HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system.
What is a Cabin Filter?
A cabin air filter, located behind the glove box, under the dashboard or sometimes in the engine bay, is a small, pleated unit usually made from paper or other filter materials. Its function is to improve the air we breathe in the car by trapping:
• dust,
• pollen,
• mould spores,
• and other airborne contaminants.
While enhancing the air quality inside the vehicle, the cabin filter also protects the HVAC system from clogging and damage by debris, ensuring maximum efficiency. Additionally, some cabin filters can reduce odours, reducing unpleasant smells from external sources such as exhaust fumes.
How Often Should You Replace Your Cabin Air Filter?
Several factors influence when you should replace your cabin filter, such as the make and model of your car and the environments in which you frequently drive, whether it be on dusty dirt roads or in heavy traffic.
Our General Manager, Justin, mentioned, “It’s the first thing I do when I buy a new car.”
Our advice is to replace the filter at least every 12 months or 20,000 km, whichever comes first. During regular servicing intervals, we check this filter and will advise you on its condition.
Signs Your Cabin Filter Needs Attention
• Reduced Airflow:
If you notice a significant decrease in the airflow from the vents, even at the highest fan setting, it could indicate a clogged filter or other issues.
• Unpleasant Odours:
Persistent, musty smells in the cabin may be a sign that the cabin filter is no longer effectively filtering out contaminants.
• Increased Allergies:
If you or your passengers experience heightened allergy symptoms, it may be due to a dirty or clogged filter failing to trap allergens effectively.
• Noise from the HVAC System:
Unusual noises from the air conditioning or heating system can indicate a clogged filter obstructing airflow which in turn puts excess strain on the cars fan bearings.
DIY Replacement
Depending on the car, replacing a cabin filter can be a simple task for many car owners who have the right tools and a do-it-yourself attitude. We have a range of cabin filters available online here, and for reassurance you are choosing the correct part please call our Parts Advisors on 0800269772 .
Keep your cars HVAC running Efficiently.
A clean and unclogged cabin filter improves airflow to the cabin, which can increase your car's performance and fuel efficiency. Also, you may notice your windscreen defogs more rapidly due to the improved performance of your car's system.
If you are unsure of the last time your cabin filter was replaced touch base with our Service Team 0800269772 and they can give you an estimate for a replacement.
Remember, regular maintenance and timely replacement of the cabin filter can significantly enhance your driving comfort, protect your health, and prolong the lifespan of your vehicle’s ventilation system.
