Car Filters: Signs Your In-Cabin Air Filter Needs to Be Changed

Proper car maintenance is important. If you don't take good care of your vehicle, it's not going to take good care of you. For the sake of both longevity and safety, it's important to replace different car components as often as is recommended by professionals or your manufacturer.

This includes car filters. Your in-cabin air filter may not seem like the most important thing in your car but in fact, when not changed regularly, it can have tangible negative effects on both driver and passengers.

Your in-cabin filter plays an important role: to prevent dust and dirt from outside coming in through your car's vents. Once it stops doing its job properly, you'll definitely know.

Read on to learn four telltale signs it's time to change your in-cabin air filter.

1. Persistent Bad Odor

If you've noticed a bad odor every time you get into your car, but you're unable to get rid of it or find the source, the culprit could be your in-cabin air filter. If the smell is musty, and you notice it becoming worse when you turn on your car's air conditioning, then more than likely, this is what the problem is.

As dust and debris build up in your filter, it can become clogged and mold and bacteria can begin to grow. This will cause an unpleasant smell in your car, making it uncomfortable to drive.

2. Ineffective Climate Control

One of the most obvious signs your in-cabin air filter needs replacing is an ineffective climate control system. If lately, you've noticed that airflow is poor, even when you turn the AC up, this is usually a good indicator your filter has become clogged, restricting the amount of air that can pass through it.

Similarly, if you have noticed that your fans are making a lot more noise than usual when turned on, this could also be a sign that your filter needs to be changed.

3. Passengers Experiencing Allergy Symptoms

Are you or any of your passengers experiencing allergy symptoms such as runny noses, teary eyes, or facial redness when inside your car? This may be a sign your in-cabin filter isn't doing its job correctly.

Did you know an in-cabin air filter is also known as a pollen filter? When it ceases to work correctly, more pollen and dust may begin to work their way into your car, which can cause great discomfort for those inside.

4. It's Past the Recommended Time

Advice varies on how often car owners should change their in-cabin air filters. The most common guidance is that it should be done either every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or every one to two years. But the real answer is a little more complicated.

If you live in a city with a lot of smog, or in an arid climate with a lot of dust and dirt, then you'll need to change your filter more often. The opposite is also true. Use your best judgment and follow your manual's advice.

Time To Change Your Car Filters?

Could your in-cabin air filter need changing? If you're in the Collegeville, Oaks, or Phoenixville area, contact B&M Auto Repair and Towing to change your car filters, and for any other automotive needs you may have.