Why You Need to Change Your Vehicle’s Cabin Air Filter

A cabin air filter prevents stuff like dirt, dust, smoke, smog, pollen, mold, and exhaust from entering the cabin of your vehicle through the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. It also keeps out other debris, such as bugs, rodent droppings, and leaves.

They are typically rectangular and made of paper and a mix of other fibrous materials. They also feature pleats to better catch the contaminants. When air passes through the cabin air filter, debris is trapped rather than going into the vehicle. Eventually, that debris will build up, making it necessary for the filter to be changed to continue to work efficiently.

How Often Do You Need to Change a Cabin Air Filter?
Toyota recommends replacing your cabin air filter every 12 months or 16,000 kms, depending on the vehicle and where you drive. If you live in an area with air pollution or you regularly drive on dirt roads, you might want to replace it even sooner. Allergy sufferers or those with compromised respiratory systems might consider getting a new one after as few as 10,000 kms.

How Much Does a Cabin Air Filter Cost?
Toyota cabin air filters start at $32.95 plus installation, but replacing it can be a do-it-yourself task if you’re up to the challenge. In most vehicles, they are located behind the glove box, beneath the dashboard, or under the hood. While it is usually easy to access, be careful not to break any of the clips or pins holding it in.

What If You Don’t Change Your Cabin Air Filter Enough?
A cabin air filter that’s dirty or clogged won’t filter contaminants, and could cause problems for those who suffer from allergies or have breathing difficulties. A good suggestion is to replace your cabin air filter every February or March in order to prevent pollen from finding its way into your vehicle when spring allergy season arrives.

HVAC System Issues. 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. This affects cabin air temperature, which depends on a steady flow of air passing through the heater core, evaporator, or both components, so not changing your cabin air filter will make your HVAC system work much harder.

Poor Window Fog Clearing. Another problem that could arise when airflow is compromised is your windows won’t clear as quickly. The diminished air quality that comes from a cabin air filter that’s clogging up allows condensation to form on the windshield.

Foul Odors. Sometimes that terrible smell coming from your vents isn’t something you just drove by. It could be coming from your cabin air filter. Dirty or excessively clogged cabin air filters can produce a dusty, musty stench, especially when the HVAC system is turned on.