Cabin air filters are an important part of your vehicle's HVAC system, as they help to keep the air inside your car clean and free of contaminants. However, how often should you replace your cabin air filter? In general, most cabin air filters need to be replaced between 15,000 and 30,000 miles. The best place to find this answer, which varies by manufacturer, is in your vehicle's manual. Some will recommend every 45,000 miles, while others suggest being closer to the 25,000 mile mark.
If you drive on busy roads, in high temperatures, or on dusty, unpaved roads, you may need to replace your cabin air filter every 15,000 miles. If you're not sure if it's time to replace your cabin air filter, you may notice some warning signs. Reduced airflow through your vehicle's HVAC system or persistent foul odors are both good indications that it's time for a new filter. Whether you notice these signs or not, you should have your cabin air filter checked every 15,000 to 25,000 miles or at least once a year.
Be sure to take a look at the owner's manual to see if there are any different recommendations from the manufacturer. You can also consult the experts at Audi Stratham to see if you change your cabin air filter often enough for the Manchester weather and your driving habits. Our team is happy to share the basics of cabin air filters and if it's time to replace them, you can schedule an appointment at our service center. The best indicator that the cabin air filter needs to be changed is by visual inspection, observing the impact of the air flow, or by smell inspection.
Typically, a cabin air filter is located just behind the glove box, just under the hood, or under the dashboard on most modern vehicles. Some luxury brands charge more for their parts and require that you only buy cabin air filters of their brand, while others suggest that you can buy a generic cabin air filter at your local automotive store. If your cabin air filter isn't replaced regularly, you run the risk of inhaling hazardous particles while you're inside the vehicle. In addition, the more clogged the air filter is, the more difficult the HVAC system will have to work, which puts unnecessary strain on the engines and ventilation system. Other cabin air filters are located under the dashboard and may not be easily accessible or under the hood where fresh air enters the climate control system. This type of filter is made of cloth or paper and has the ability to remove any airborne contaminants before it enters the car cabin. Any skilled mechanic will explain that every time you replace your car's dirty cabin air filter, your car's air quality will improve.
This is because when the air inside the cab is dirty, the air conditioning unit has to work even harder while the engine burns out. Once you know where the cabin air filter is located it's important to change it regularly so that you and your passengers can breathe clean residue-free air every time you get into your vehicle. Another common sign that an air filter needs to be changed is when you notice odors in your vehicle.
