Which Direction Should the Air Filter Arrow Face?
2 Answers
The direction of the air filter arrow indicates the airflow direction. The arrow is usually located on the side of the filter, with the top being the air intake and the bottom being the air outlet. Functions of the air filter: 1. Ensures the filter fits tightly against the housing to prevent unfiltered air from entering the cabin; 2. Separates dust, pollen, and solid particles from the air; 3. Adsorbs moisture, soot, ozone, odors, carbon oxides, SO2, and CO2 from the air; 4. Prevents car windows from fogging up, ensuring clear visibility and driving safety; 5. Provides fresh air to the cabin, preventing passengers from inhaling harmful gases and ensuring driving safety; 6. Maintains clean cabin air and prevents bacterial growth.
Last time I changed the cabin air filter myself, I specifically researched this issue. Actually, that arrow indicates the direction of airflow, so it must be installed facing the interior of the vehicle. In most cars, the AC system draws air from outside, filters it through the cabin filter, and then delivers it into the passenger compartment. If the arrow is installed backward, the pleated structure of the filter will be deformed by the reverse airflow pressure, which actually reduces filtration efficiency. I've seen cases where people installed it backward, causing the filter to collapse and deform in less than six months, even producing strange noises. Before installation, it's best to use a flashlight to check the airflow duct direction inside the filter housing and confirm the correct orientation. The side with the rubber sealing edge usually faces the rear of the vehicle, which can also serve as a reference. Remember, the arrow should always point toward the driver's seat—this ensures optimal dust filtration efficiency.