How often should the Highlander's cabin air filter be replaced?
3 Answers
The Highlander's cabin air filter should be replaced every 10,000 to 20,000 kilometers. The Highlander is a mid-size SUV equipped with a 2.0T L4 turbocharged engine delivering 220ps maximum horsepower and 350Nm peak torque. Its dimensions measure 4890mm in length, 1925mm in width, and 1720mm in height, with a 2790mm wheelbase. This 5-door, 5-seat SUV features a 6-speed automatic transmission. Commonly known as a pollen filter, the cabin air filter functions to purify incoming air by removing impurities such as microscopic particles, pollen, bacteria, industrial exhaust, and dust from entering the vehicle interior.
When I first bought my Highlander, I was also a novice car owner. It was only later that I learned the cabin air filter needs to be replaced regularly. Generally, the owner's manual recommends replacing it every 12 to 15 months or around 12,000 kilometers. However, since I live in a big city with severe air pollution, especially during Beijing's smoggy periods, I shorten the interval to 6 months. Why? This filter is responsible for trapping dust and pollen from the cabin air. If not replaced on time, the blower may start humming, airflow decreases, and in summer, the AC can develop unpleasant odors, affecting health. After changing it myself, I felt my breathing became much smoother, and my child stopped sneezing. So now during maintenance, I always remind the mechanic to check the filter—it's hassle-free and safer, after all, driving is all about comfort, right?
After driving for so many years, I've figured out the tricks of the air filter. For the Highlander, it's recommended to check the filter regularly, with a replacement frequency typically every 15,000 kilometers or once a year, depending on the driving environment. For example, since I drive long distances often on dusty roads, I change it every six months. The filter isn't expensive, but it plays a big role. It protects the air conditioning system from debris—otherwise, a clogged filter not only reduces airflow and increases fuel consumption but also leads to malfunctions. I usually buy an original filter online for about a hundred yuan and replace it myself in five minutes. Remember, don't wait until the AC starts blowing strange smells to regret it. Timely maintenance saves money and extends your car's lifespan—good habits keep your car running longer.
