The rule of thumb for how often to change cabin air filters is every 15,000 miles. Some Purchase drivers encounter scenarios where their air filter works harder such as when going off-roading or when driving in locations with dirt or gravel roads. In these cases, you'll need to change your air filter sooner.
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.
Reduced Airflow from Vents: If you notice that the airflow from your car's vents has diminished, it could be a sign that your cabin air filter is clogged and needs attention. Unpleasant Odors: A musty or stale odor inside your vehicle can indicate that the cabin air filter is dirty and needs to be replaced.
Cabin air filters tend to last for around 15,000 miles, or a little over one year. However, even if you know how often to change a cabin air filter, you could encounter conditions that cause your cabin air filter to expire early. That's why it's also important to know what a cabin air filter does!
All vehicles are different, but you should check the air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, recommends AutoZone. You can change it sooner if you do a visual inspection and notice it's dirty. You can also check your owner's manual, which should provide a more precise service schedule.
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.
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.
Every Oil Change
In general, most newer vehicles are designed to run on 6,000 or 7,500-mile cycles for oil changes (the old 3,000-mile cycle is a myth in terms of newer vehicles). Most mechanics agree that it's just a smart idea to have the filter swapped out every time you take your car in for an oil change.
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.
Because your air conditioner or heater has to work harder to cool or heat your car's cabin, your engine has to work harder to power these systems. Surprisingly, having a clogged cabin air filter can actually impact your fuel efficiency because your engine is having to put out more energy than it should.
How many air filters does a car have to begin with? Your vehicle has two air filters: a cabin air filter and an engine air filter. Both car air filters are crucial for the overall performance of your vehicle, but they serve different roles.
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.
As the system is working harder to get around clogged air filters, it can cause the entire system to overwork and eventually break. If this happens, you'll need to replace the entire system, which can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $12,000.
No, you should never run your AC without a filter!
Although there are specific situations when this may be acceptable for a very short time, in most situations running your AC without a filter could be disastrous. Generally, anytime you run your air conditioning system without an air filter you are taking a major risk.
While technically you don't have to get the oil filter changed with every oil replacement, it is still a good idea. The oil filter keeps the oil in your engine clear of larger contaminants and replacing it at the same time that you get an oil change makes sure that everything can run smoothly.
Tire rotation should be performed every 5,000 to 7,500 miles for both front-wheel drive (FWD) and rear-wheel drive (RWD) vehicles, but exactly how you should rotate your tires depends on your drivetrain.
If you live in a hot country, measure the oil level either in the morning or at night, as engines can get very hot, especially in the middle of the day when the sun is at its climax. If you live in a colder country, checking your vehicle's oil when the temperatures are freezing outside may affect your oil readings.
This will vary based on your vehicle, however, a cabin air filter replacement could run anywhere between $30 and $70.
In some situations you may need a screwdriver or socket set, but most installations can be done by hand. Sometimes the filter can be pretty dirty, so you may want to wear safety gloves and goggles, and even put a covering down on your passenger side floor mat.
Cheap filters don't last long as expensive filters do, so they need replacing more often. Cheap air filters are usually made of cardboard and paper. These materials are cheap to manufacture, but they are not durable.
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.
Expensive air filters are made from higher-quality materials, like fiberglass, that can last for up to 12 months.
A clogged or dirty filter restricts airflow, making your HVAC system work harder to maintain the desired temperature. By replacing the filter regularly, you can ensure optimal airflow, allowing your HVAC system to function efficiently.