Are the Air Filter and Cabin Air Filter the Same Thing?
2 Answers
Air filters and cabin air filters are not the same thing. The air filter is responsible for filtering the air entering the engine and is located at the bottom left of the engine compartment. The cabin air filter filters the circulating air between the outside and inside of the vehicle cabin and is located at the bottom of the glove compartment on the passenger side. The air filter is a device that removes particulate impurities from the air. When a piston engine operates, inhaling air containing dust and other impurities can accelerate component wear, hence the necessity of an air filter. The cabin air filter is designed to purify the air entering the vehicle cabin from the outside, improving air cleanliness. It typically filters out impurities in the air, such as tiny particles, pollen, bacteria, industrial exhaust, and dust.
Not the same thing. The air filter and the cabin air filter are two completely different components. The air filter primarily filters the air entering the engine, ensuring that the engine inhales clean airflow and preventing dust and debris from entering the cylinders. This allows for more complete combustion, better engine performance, and improved fuel efficiency. It is usually located inside a black box in the engine bay, and when dirty, it can lead to reduced power and increased fuel consumption. On the other hand, the cabin air filter filters the air drawn in by the air conditioning system, handling pollen, dust, and odors to keep the cabin air fresh, which is beneficial for our respiratory health. It is hidden behind the dashboard or glove compartment, and if not replaced, it can cause unpleasant odors in the car and even trigger allergies. For regular maintenance, I check them every 10,000 kilometers. Understanding the difference can help avoid unnecessary expenses during repairs. Regularly replacing them not only maintains the car's condition but also saves time and fuel.
