Car air filters are not universal. Every car make and model has a air filter that is designed specifically for that make and model. Car air filters come in different shapes and sizes. In general most car air filters are rectangular in shape, but it does not mean that they fit on any car.
Vehicle and filter type: Most vehicles have different air filter sizes, shapes, and thicknesses, which may lead to different replacement schedules. Additionally, the brand or type of filter you get could also impact your replacement needs.
Air Filter Sizes
Actual is the filter's exact size. In addition to standard height and width dimensions, air filters also vary by thickness. They can be less than one inch thick or up to six inches thick. Not every HVAC system can accommodate thicker filters, as the most common sizes are 1-inch thick.
To know what size air filter your car needs, consult the vehicle's owner's manual. If it's not stated there, you can remove the existing air filter and measure it. It's important to get the right size to ensure optimal performance and protection for your engine.
Some air filters are vehicle specific, though there are cost-effective universal filters on the market that are designed to fit most cars too. Keep in mind that you need an air filter that suits your car's air intake design.
First, locate the filter slot in your furnace/air handler. Some homes have filters behind their return vents as well. Furnace filter size is measured using length, width, and depth. For example, a furnace filter that measures 18"x16"x1" is 18 inches long, 16 inches wide, and 1-inch deep.
Cabin air filters also do not come in a standard size. They vary across different car models and manufacturers. Each cabin filter is designed to fit a specific space within the HVAC system. Vehicle manufacturers typically recommend using filters made to their specifications to ensure the best fit and performance.
What Size Cabin Air Filter Should I Buy? Cabin air filters are available in many shapes and sizes. The easiest way to know which size is right for your vehicle is to check your owner's manual, which will often include a specific part number.
As mentioned above, most engine air filters will need to be replaced around every 30,000-45,000 miles, but you'll want to consult your owner's manual for a more exact number as different vehicles have different engine air filters.
A dirty air filter can certainly impede your air conditioner's ability to cool and after time could cause unnecessary strain on the entire system. Another common potential reason is that your compressor has failed.
Using the wrong size filter reduces efficiency, air quality, and can even damage your HVAC system. You can learn more about the difference between furnace and AC filter sizes here.
When you place the air filter in the slot, and it doesn't glide in, it's too bid. This means you'll need to spend extra money replacing the filter and finding the perfect size. An oversized air filter can't be adjusted, so it will also need to be replaced if it's too tight for the narrow space.
While you can technically use a different size air filter, it's not recommended. An ill-fitting filter can allow unfiltered air to pass, reducing your system's efficiency and potentially causing damage.
If the air filter is the wrong size, unfiltered air can slip around the opening. Dirt can build up on the mass airflow sensor. With the sensor clogged, the engine can no longer determine how much fuel to mix for proper combustion. This will trigger the engine light.
Find the right oil and oil filter for your car
Please consult your vehicle manufacturer's manual for information specific to your vehicle.
A Dirty or Discolored Filter
A clean air filter is usually white or tan. Over time when dirt and grime accumulate on it, it turns dark brown or black. Always check your filter in a well-lit area. If your filter is dirtier than usual, it's time to replace it.
As your air filter catches unwanted particles, it's also helping your engine pull in the clean air it needs to operate effectively. But when the filter wears down and gets dirty, it can choke off your car's air flow and hurt your engine's acceleration power.
Most engine air filters will cost between $20 to $85, depending on the year, make, and model of your vehicle, and whether you do it yourself or take your vehicle to the dealer or a mechanic.
Choosing the right engine air filter is more critical than you think. A high-quality filter maximizes fuel efficiency and prolongs the life of your engine. But a poor choice can lead to reduced performance and costly repairs down the line.
Change the cabin air filters when they clog up or fail. The six top cabin air filter brands are Bosch, K&N, Hastings, Crown, Purolator, and Mahle. While you can wash and reuse some cabin air filters, most filters only last around a year.
The easiest way to know which size you need is to open the engine air-filter housing, remove the filter, and bring it with you to the auto parts counter. You can also check in your owner's manual for the air filter part number or look it up online.
Air Filter Problems with Poor Fit
If you purchase a filter that's too large, it won't slide into the slot correctly. If the filter is too small, it won't cover the entire space and may allow dust and dirt to flow past.
A dirty engine air filter can cause your engine to run poorly, and contaminants that pass by it can cause wear inside your engine. A bad cabin air filter usually won't cause damage, but it can prevent you from operating your car safely.
A dirty air filter can cause your vehicle to throw a Check Engine code. During this instance, the Check Engine Light of your vehicle will turn on. The light turns on because your vehicle is sensing that its engine isn't receiving enough air.
How Much Does Changing a Cabin Air Filter Cost? This will vary based on your vehicle, however, a cabin air filter replacement could run anywhere between $30 and $70.