Are Air Filters and Cabin Air Filters the Same?

[VonHarmony]

Air filters and cabin air filters are not the same. The air filter is used to filter the air entering the engine, removing dust and particles, while the cabin air filter is used to filter the air in the air conditioning system, such as when the AC or outside air circulation is on, removing dust and pollen. Below are the relevant details: 1. The function of the air filter is to finely filter the air entering the engine cylinders, ensuring that sufficient and clean air enters the cylinders. Its cleanliness and unobstructed condition are crucial to the engine's lifespan. Generally, it should be replaced every 10,000 kilometers or about six months. If the vehicle is used in areas with severe smog or willow catkins, it is recommended to replace it every three months. 2. The function of the cabin air filter is to filter the air entering the vehicle cabin from the outside, improving air cleanliness and providing a good air environment for passengers, thereby protecting their health. Under normal circumstances, it is recommended to replace it every six months, but this can be adjusted based on the external driving environment. If the environment is relatively humid or prone to smog, the replacement interval can be shortened appropriately.

[VonJonathan]

Last week I took my old car for maintenance, and the mechanic specifically showed me these two parts. The air filter manages engine intake, installed in the engine bay to block dust and sand; the cabin air filter handles the air inside the car, hidden behind the glove box to filter pollen and PM2.5. Not replacing the former makes the engine cough and waste fuel, while a dirty latter fills the car with a musty smell. After changing the air filter last time, the throttle felt lighter, and after replacing the cabin air filter, I never sneezed with the AC on again. The mechanic said in humid southern regions, the cabin air filter should be checked every three months, while in dusty northern areas, the air filter must be replaced every six months.

[AndersonLee]

After ten years in auto repair, I've seen too many confused car owners. The air filter is the engine's mask, while the cabin air filter is for the passengers. Two years ago, a customer complained about a foul smell from the AC—we pulled out half a pound of poplar fluff from the cabin filter. Last year, an uncle reported poor acceleration, only to find an air filter clogged thicker than a dishrag. Nowadays, the new double-layer activated carbon cabin filters can even remove formaldehyde, while the HEPA filters in electric vehicles can block viruses. My advice: check your maintenance manual. Japanese cars usually have the air filter in a box on the right side of the engine, while German cars often tuck the cabin filter under the wipers.

[McOscar]

A Female Driver's Hands-On Guide! Bought an air filter by mistake for my MINI, thinking it was a cabin air filter, but it wouldn't fit in the glove box at all. The air filter is as thick as a book to protect the engine, while the cabin air filter is a thin sheet with little black activated carbon particles. Last time I forgot to change the cabin air filter, the heater blew out a full car of leaf smell, and my kid kept complaining about allergies. Now I've learned my lesson: change to a pollen-proof cabin air filter in spring and summer, and always check the air filter after off-roading. When buying filters on Taobao, remember to search for 'Bosch cabin air filter' and 'Mann air filter'—don't waste money like I did.