Do I really need to change my cabin air filter?

Cabin air filters are a function of most vehicles that clean the air inside through heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. It can catch dust, pollen and other airborne material.

Most motorists know that their car has an engine air filter, but few know that their car could have up to four filters. One of the most obscure filters sits near the glove box of most cars. It’s the in-cabin air filter and because most people don’t know it’s even there, it’s not a maintenance item often discussed.

After you know how many filters your car has, it’s important to either check for yourself or have them checked for you, most notably the engine/oil filter and also the fuel and transmission filters. Each filter is designed to prevent particulate matter from damaging important and expensive parts of the car, including engines and gearboxes. Cleaning filters mean smoother, more energy-efficient vehicle operations, one of which actually solves air quality problems for you and your drivers.

When a cabin air filter should be replaced?

It varies by manufacturer, some say every 12,000 or 15,000 miles, others longer, and how often can depend on how much you drive and where. You can check the maintenance schedule in your owner's manual. If you drive in heavy traffic in an urban area that has poor air quality, you could need to replace the cabin air filter annually or even more often.

What signs remind you that you need to change the cabin air filter?

The one is when you crank up the fan too high and get more noise than results.

Another is persistent bad odors.

Even if you don't have these warnings, however, you should have the air filter checked at least once a year, and you may be able to do that yourself.

Where's the cabin air filter?

The instructions should be in your car's owner's manual.

Many cabin air filters are located behind the glove box and are easily accessible by freeing the glove box from its fasteners.

Other cabin air filters are located under the dashboard and may not be easy to reach.

Or under the hood where fresh air enters the climate control system.

If the dealer service department or repair shop suggests you get a new cabin air filter, please ask for the current situation. Depending on how long the air filter has been in service, you might be shocked at what you see: a filter clogged with leaves, twigs, insects, pollen, soot and grime that literally covers the entire surface that comes in contact with incoming air can all be a problem for the cabin inside your vehicle. So that you'll know it's time for a cabin air filter replacement for your car.

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