How Often Should You Replace the Car's Air Filter and Cabin Air Filter?
3 Answers
The replacement interval indicated in the vehicle maintenance manual is that the air filter should generally be replaced every 20,000 to 60,000 kilometers. If the driving distance is relatively short, it is recommended to replace it every 12 months. The cabin air filter should be replaced approximately every 10,000 kilometers. If it is not replaced for a long time, it will affect the performance of the air conditioning system and the health of the vehicle occupants. Cabin Air Filter: The cabin air filter is an important component of the car's air conditioning system. Its main function is to filter bacteria, PM2.5, moisture, pollen, dust, and other particles from the air. It is recommended to inspect both the air filter and cabin air filter during each maintenance service. The car's air filter is located in different positions depending on the intake system and engine structure, usually within the air cleaner on the engine's intake pipe. The cabin air filter is typically installed under or inside the glove compartment on the passenger side, or in some models, below the windshield in front of the passenger seat. Function of the Cabin Air Filter: It absorbs fine particles, reduces respiratory discomfort, minimizes irritation for allergy sufferers, and protects the air conditioning cooling system. Without the cabin air filter, these particles can enter the cabin, contaminating the air conditioning system, reducing cooling efficiency, and causing allergic reactions, lung damage, irritation from ozone, and unpleasant odors, all of which can compromise driving safety. Dirty Cabin Air Filter: If the cabin air filter becomes dirty, it can clog with impurities, reducing airflow and affecting the cooling performance of the air conditioning system. This can also increase fuel consumption and create noise, shortening the lifespan of the air conditioning system. Accumulated impurities on the filter can breed bacteria and mold, posing health risks to passengers and potentially leading to serious illnesses. Air Filter: Also known as an air filter cartridge or air cleaner, it is a type of filter used in engineering vehicles, cars, agricultural machinery, laboratories, sterile operating rooms, and various precision environments. Function of the Air Filter: It filters airborne particles, ensuring that clean air enters the engine cylinders and preventing dust from being sucked into the engine, which could accelerate wear on the piston assembly and cylinder. Dirty Air Filter: Using a dirty air filter while driving can restrict engine airflow, leading to incomplete fuel combustion. This can cause unstable engine operation, reduced power, and increased fuel consumption. Therefore, it is essential to keep the air filter clean or replace it promptly.
As someone who frequently tinkers with cars, I believe the replacement intervals for cabin air filters and engine air filters depend on the actual driving environment. Generally, it's recommended to replace the cabin air filter every 15,000 kilometers or once a year, and the engine air filter about every 20,000 kilometers or annually. However, if you often drive in rural areas—like when I went camping in the mountains just six months ago—the filters can get clogged with dust and pollen, so replacing them early is a good idea. Otherwise, the air conditioning might emit a pungent odor and even trigger allergies, affecting your health. Additionally, if the engine air filter is clogged for too long, the engine might suffer from oxygen deprivation, leading to reduced power and increased fuel consumption. It's best to keep some spare filters on hand and check under the hood every few months. If they feel dirty, replace them. It saves money and gives peace of mind, after all, breathing clean air while driving is what really matters!
As a seasoned driver, I remember not paying attention to the filter issue when I first started driving. As a result, the car was filled with strange smells when I turned on the AC in summer. Later, upon inspection, I found the cabin air filter was completely clogged. It's recommended to replace the cabin air filter once a year or every 15,000 kilometers, and the engine air filter can last a bit longer, around 20,000 kilometers. Why? In heavily polluted urban areas, dust accumulates faster, affecting the air quality inside the car and potentially causing coughing or rhinitis. If you often park under trees, the filter is more prone to moisture and mold. Personally, I now make it a habit to check every six months, lifting it to see if there's any debris. If it looks black, I replace it right away—it's not expensive, just a few dozen bucks. Don't forget to clean the filter housing when washing your car to prevent dust from getting stuck. In short, frequent filter changes protect your lungs and your car's engine, making driving more comfortable.
