Cabin air filters are affordable parts that improve interior air quality in any vehicle. These filters capture particles of dust, pollen and soot, and may also accumulate insects, leaves, twigs, mold spores and other contaminants. A rectangular filter made of pleated paper or other fibrous materials may be located behind the glove box or under the dashboard of a vehicle. Depending on the location, this part replacement can be simple and only require a screwdriver or socket set. Find out how to get the best deal on cabin air filters and other auto parts.
Low Replacement Part Prices
Replacement cabin air filters range in price from about $10 to $20 at automotive parts retailers, but can cost up to $50 at a dealership. You can get the lowest price on a cabin air filter by consulting the owner’s manual for your vehicle to find a part number and purchasing the right replacement part. The price of a replacement filter is only a portion of the overall cost of having a mechanic perform this maintenance. Labor can add an additional $35 to $50 to the cost of replacing a cabin air filter. Doing this repair on your own can save a significant amount of money on parts and labor.
DIY Filter Replacement
You can maximize your savings by learning how to replace a cabin air filter. This repair usually involves opening or removing the glove box. Refer to the owner’s manual of your vehicle to determine where the cabin air filter is located and whether a screwdriver or socket set is necessary to access the filter housing. Start by removing the glove box or gaining access to the housing under the dashboard. Remove any screws or retaining clips and take out and dispose of the old air filter. You can clean out the housing with a shop vac before installing a new filter. The arrows on a filter indicate the direction of airflow. Close the clips or screws on the filter housing and reinstall the glove box or dashboard.
Save On Maintenance Costs
Consult the owner’s manual for your vehicle to determine how often you should replace the cabin air filter. Most manufacturers recommend changing this filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. Regular cabin air filter replacement can maximize the efficiency of the climate control system in a vehicle. If you have noticed weak airflow when using the air conditioner or heating or a noisy fan on high setting, a dirty cabin air filter could be the culprit. This affordable and easily replaceable part could save a lot of money on diagnostic testing and replacement parts. Find information about right air filters and about other car parts and accessories for your car on cararac.com.
A cabin air filter located behind the glove box is easy to access in most vehicle makes and models. If the air filter in your vehicle is situated under the dashboard, you may prefer to purchase a replacement part for the best deal and have this part replaced by a mechanic. A new filter will significantly improve air quality inside a vehicle and the effectiveness of the climate control system.
Air filters are needed to be replaced. It is a part of keeping the good condition of your vehicle. Creating a DIY filter can be done but I opt to buy from auto supply shops. I read an article from 4WheelOnline saying that you’re just wasting money on your old paper air filter. It is important to regularly replace air filters, may it be for the cabin or the engine.