You’re probably at least partly aware of the many filters that your vehicle relies on to run properly. But one that is often forgotten when it comes to regular maintenance is the cabin air filter.
While older vehicles may not have a cabin air filter, most vehicles made within the last 15 years do. Making sure it gets changed on a regular basis is important for a number of different reasons.
What is a Cabin Air Filter?
A cabin air filter works to clean the air that comes through your heating and air conditioning system before it enters the cabin of your vehicle. It catches pollen, dust, dirt, and other airborne materials so that you don’t breathe them in. This makes the air not just cleaner, but also healthier, which is especially important for those with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory health concerns.
How Often Does a Cabin Air Filter Need to be Replaced?
The frequency of cabin air filter changes depends on your vehicle manufacturer. Most recommend it to be changed every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, though some may last longer. How much you drive, and what the conditions are like, can require frequent changes. If you drive in heavy traffic or urban areas, drive for long periods of time, or frequently drive on dirt or gravel roads, your filter can get dirty faster. And a dirty filter isn’t as effective at removing particles, and can even restrict the airflow through your vents or make the air smell stale or musty.
Signs that Your Filter Needs to be Replaced
No matter how many miles it has been since your cabin air filter has been changed, or if you aren’t sure when it was last done, there are some signs that you can look for. If your fan doesn’t seem to be blowing as hard, even when set on high, or seems especially noisy, your filter may be to blame. Another common sign is a strange smell coming through your vents, which can smell dusty, musty, stale, or just unpleasant. No matter whether or not you notice these issues, it is a good idea to have your cabin air filter inspected at least once per year to monitor its condition.
Can I Check my Cabin Air Filter Myself?
The cabin air filter is most commonly located either behind your dashboard or is accessed by removing the glove box. This means that it isn’t a great idea to try and change it yourself unless you are certain that you know what you are doing. Snapping a connector or a plastic trim piece can mean having to deal with additional repairs as well.
At your neighborhood Jiffy Lube®, the highly trained technicians know exactly how to access your cabin air filter safely. And what’s more, it is in fact one of the most affordable regular maintenance tasks to have taken care of. Stop by anytime and our team will inspect your cabin air filter to see if it is ready to be changed, and can even take care of it on the spot so you can drive away enjoying clean, healthy air no matter where your drive takes you.
Jiffy Lube® recommends following manufacturer recommendations, where applicable, for maintenance schedules and service intervals.
Not all services are offered at each Jiffy Lube® location. Please check with your local Jiffy Lube® service center for specific services offered.
Go to ChicagolandJiffyLube.com for services and locations in Chicagoland, Rockford, Northwest Indiana, and Southeast Wisconsin.
Jiffy Lube® Service Centers are owned and operated by independent franchisees.