When asked to pinpoint the location of the cabin filter in your vehicle, most would struggle to answer confidently. Typically hidden away in your glovebox compartment or nestled near the engine bay, this small but mighty filter plays a crucial role in maintaining the quality of the air you breathe while driving.
The cabin filter’s job is to capture all kinds of debris – from brake dust and soot to hair, pollen and leaves. When you switch on your vehicle’s heater or air conditioner, the air circulating through your vents is courtesy of this hard-working filter. Over time, it accumulates a lot of this unwanted debris, which means it needs regular replacing to keep the air inside your car clean and fresh.
Easily overlooked due to the “out of sight, out of mind” mentality, many car owners don’t learn about the cabin filter until they bring their vehicle to a technician when they start experiencing issues. An ignored cabin filter can lead to obstructed airflow, as well as mold buildup and unpleasant odors, turning your car into a less-than-pleasant environment. Given how much time we spend behind the wheel, keeping that air clean isn’t just about comfort – it’s about maintaining a healthy space for you and your passengers.
Experts recommend changing your cabin filter every 10,000-15,000 kilometers or approximately every nine to 12 months. However, this can vary depending on your lifestyle. For instance, if you frequently drive through construction zones, you will encounter more dust and may need to replace the filter more often.
In our shop, assessing the condition of your cabin filter is a part of our routine maintenance check and can be as simple as shining a bright light through it or holding it up to sunlight. If enough light passes through, your filter is still doing its job. If not, it’s time for a replacement to ensure unrestricted airflow.
Customers should be aware that routine checks on cabin filters might not be part of every shop’s standard procedure. Some shops may only check the cabin filter if specifically instructed. Therefore, it’s important to discuss this with the service provider when taking your car in for maintenance.
Cabin filters typically range between $30-$100, depending on your vehicle’s make and model. It’s a small price to pay for the significant benefit of clean air inside your car.
In a nutshell, regularly checking and replacing your cabin filter might seem like a small detail, but it’s a game-changer for maintaining your car’s air quality. Think of it as giving your vehicle a breath of fresh air, ensuring every drive is not just enjoyable but also healthier for everyone inside!
Armen Jakjakian, the owner/operator of Speedy Auto Service Mississauga West, brings over 20 years of experience in the auto repair industry. Known for his dedication to quality service, Armen likes to say he has oil in his veins – a testament to his lifelong passion for all things automotive.