How Often Should I Change My Cabin Air Filter?

Modern vehicles generally make use of two important air filters, the engine air filter and the cabin air filter. As the name suggests, the engine air filter is responsible for catching dust and debris from the air entering the engine, protecting it from potentially harmful contaminants reaching the combustion chamber. The cabin air filter on the other hand cleans the air being pumped into the vehicle’s interior, providing you and your passengers with fresh air while driving. 

Both of these filters will gradually build up with contaminants over time, requiring occasional replacement. In this article, we’ll cover what the cabin air filter does, the symptoms of an old filter, and how often you may need to replace yours!

What is a Cabin Air Filter?

The air used for vehicle ventilation systems is drawn from outside the vehicle, but comes chock-full of dust, dirt, and debris that can cause issues in the HVAC system and interior. This is where the cabin air filter comes in, catching these contaminants as air is drawn in and preventing debris from reaching the cabin. 

Symptoms of Bad Cabin Air Filter

If you’ve ever ridden in an older vehicle with a musty odor inside, you’ve likely experienced the symptoms of an old filter. 

When the cabin air filter becomes blocked by debris build-up, it can restrict the flow of fresh air into the system allowing for contaminated air to remain in circulation around your interior. Not only can this cause an unpleasant odor, it can lead to dust caking the surfaces and trim of your cabin. Passengers who are sensitive to pollen and dust may even experience symptoms of allergies due to the contaminant particles. 

How Often Should I Replace My Cabin Air Filter?

Though it may not be first on your priority list when it comes to regular maintenance, cabin air filters still require occasional replacement to continue performing as they should. 

In general, cabin air filters should be replaced around every 15,000 miles or roughly one year of driving. However, this number can vary significantly depending on the vehicle itself and where it’s driven. Those who frequently drive their vehicles off-road or in high-pollution areas will require a filter replacement sooner.

Replacing Your Filter

When it’s time for a new filter, you can either go the DIY route or have it replaced by an automotive professional.  

DIY replacements can be completed in as little as 15 minutes, while replacement filters generally cost between $15-$30. 

Though the cost of a professional replacement varies based on shop labor rates and the specific vehicle, you can expect to pay between $40-$100 at a dealer or repair shop to avoid doing the service yourself.

Filter Replacements at Borst Automotive 

If you’re in need of a new cabin air filter, trust the expert technicians at Borst Automotive for a quick and inexpensive replacement! Our team has extensive experience working on various makes and models, and can get your filter swapped out and your interior smelling nice in no time! Give us a call or schedule online today at one of our five locations in Tucson, Mesa, Phoenix, and Catalina.