Cabin Air Filter Replacement
What is a cabin air filter?
The cabin air filter prevents dust, pollen, and other debris from entering the passenger compartment through the climate control (HVAC) system.
How does the cabin air filter work?
Typically made of paper or foam suspended in a plastic frame, the air filter media catches the dirt and debris that comes in through the heating and ventilation air intake. Some high end vehicle have carbon activated filters that help eliminate fumes and odors from incoming air.
What are the symptoms related to a bad cabin air filter?
Deceased airflow from the climate control system may be noted with a clogged cabin air filter. There may also be a musty or moldy odor emanating from the vents as moisture becomes trapped in the system housing and ducting.
Can I drive with a cabin air filter problem?
A vehicle can be driven with a dirty cabin filter. However, decreased climate control performance, or unpleasant odors may be noted if the replacement interval is ignored for too long. If left for too long, the bacteria that remains even after the filter is replaced will continue to leave a noticeable smell.
How often do cabin air filters need to be replaced?
Replacement intervals vary greatly by vehicle and driving conditions. Manufacturers often recommend that the cabin air filter is replaced in alternation with the engine air filter. We see this performed approximately every 40,000 miles.
How are cabin air filter issues diagnosed?
A visual inspection of the filter will be sufficient. The technician will access it by removing plastic cowling in the engine bay, or through access panels underneath the dashboard, and removing the filter. The climate control housing will be inspected for road debris, and the filter will be assessed for cleanliness.
How is a cabin air filter replaced?
The procedure is the same as the inspection. The technician will assess the climate control filter housing and remove the cabin air filter. Typically the filter is a cartridge that can simply be swapped for a new one. Some high end cars may have two filters that need to be changed at the same time.
RepairPal Recommendations for cabin air filter issues
Most cabin air filters are very low cost, when going through the trouble to inspect them, they should be replaced unless they have been recently serviced. Often times, accessing the filter will require removal of trim pieces with special fasteners. Trim panel removal tools are extremely helpful in this case, aiding in removal and protecting against breaking special trim clips or interior panels.
What to look out for when dealing with cabin air filter issues
In the cases where the cabin air filter housing is accessed through the engine bay, care should be taken to remove debris (sticks, leaves, other refuse) from around the filter area before removing it. Any debris that falls in or that has gotten past the filter should be removed. Debris that gets behind the cabin air filter can clog and damage heater cores and air conditioning evaporators. Often times, these problems are difficult to diagnose after the fact and can lead to large repair bills.
Can I replace the cabin air filter myself?
Some cabin air filters are extremely easy to replace. But before ordering parts or attempting this service yourself, it is important to look for the correct procedures to replace the cabin air filter on your specific car. Certain models will require partial disassembly of the dash or lower windshield cowling in order to access the cabin air filter housing.