One of the first things you'll notice when your cabin air filter starts to wear out is decreased airflow from the vehicle's vents. If it feels like your car's AC or heating isn't blowing as hard as it once did, it might not be an issue with the system itself, but rather a clogged filter blocking airflow.
Believe it or not, your cabin filter can affect your AC system, and the AC can have a strong impact on the power of the entire vehicle. If your filter is clogged, then you might have to turn up the AC. The harder your AC works, the more the engine does, too.
A cabin air filter left too long will make your vehicle's HVAC system work harder, which could eventually cause the motor to burn out. Dirty or clogged cabin air filters will also reduce the amount of air flowing from the vents.
No, running your AC without a filter is not recommended and is generally dangerous to the health of your air conditioner. Any amount of time that an air conditioner is run without a filter could cause damage to the system and shorten its life span. It is best to get a replacement filter as fast as possible.
The cabin air filter replacement interval can vary depending on your exact vehicle and driving conditions. However, the general rule of thumb is to replace your cabin air filter every 15,000 miles or so. We suggest you reference your owner's manual or speak to our team of experts for specifics.
Many cabin filter suppliers recommend a yearly change interval of 12,000-15,000 miles. We recommend adjusting this schedule depending on the region in question and how the vehicle is used. Most often, seasonal changes in the Spring and Fall are appropriate for the cabin air filter.
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.
Most manufacturers recommend a replacement every 15,000 to 30,000 miles under normal operating conditions. A cabin air filter does not have a specific service life, since cars operate at different intensities, and you should change it as needed.
While cleaning may extend the filter's life slightly, it does not restore the material to its optimal condition. Replacing your cabin air filter ensures you have a fresh, efficient barrier against contaminants, improving air quality and vehicle performance.
If you drive a newer model, you can expect a clean cabin air filter to increase acceleration by 6-11%. Bottom line, a clean air filter will improve clean air flow to your vehicle's engine, improving gas mileage.
A clogged cabin air filter hinders airflow.
Your car's climate control system depends on a clean cabin air filter. When the filter is full of dirt and debris, air cannot flow properly through the system. You'll notice that your windows won't defrost as well if you haven't changed your cabin air filter.
This is a simple task that requires no special tools and only takes about 15 minutes for a typical car, but it can also be done by a mechanic. The cost of replacing a cabin air filter varies from car to car and from dealer to dealer. Mainstream brands typically charge between $30 and $80 (including parts and labor).
One of the most noticeable signs of a faulty cabin air filter is the accumulation of musty odors from your climate control systems. If there seems to be a smell that just won't go away, then you should definitely consider replacing your cabin air filter.
Cabin air filters help drastically reduce the amount of allergens that can get into your vehicle. Pollen could easily get into your vehicle without the cabin air filter, and the less often you change your filter, the more pollen that will build up, which could cause more of it to get into your vehicle.
If you take your vehicle to your dealer for service, they will likely replace the air cabin filter with a manufacturer-approved version that can run from around $40 to upwards of $100. If you replace the filter yourself, it can be as affordable as $18 to $28.
Most cabin air filters can be replaced in less than 15 minutes without tools, although some take a little longer and may require removing fasteners that hold the glove box or interior trim panels in place. If you need help replacing your filter, check with your local auto repair shop.
Just like how a low fan speed on a hot day will never make you feel cold enough, a clogged cabin air filter restricts airflow, which can make your AC seem less effective. So, while a new cabin air filter might not make your AC 'colder,' it certainly contributes to a cooler and more comfortable cabin experience.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement Via Dealership
Car dealerships can charge as much as $50 for cabin air filter costs outside of labor. According to RepairPal, the labor cost is in the range of $33 and $41, while parts are priced between $31 and $44 – and that's without taxes and other related fees.
The average cost for a Cabin Air Filter Replacement is between $66 and $87. Labor costs are estimated between $32 and $41 while parts are priced between $34 and $46. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
Can I run my car without a cabin air filter? While you can run a car without a cabin air filter, it's still important to replace it.