How to Tell if Your Cabin Air Filter is Dirty

Dirty Cabin Air Filter Symptoms

Most drivers do not think about the cabin air filter until they notice bad odors, less air flow or dust and dirt in their cars. These indicators are the most obvious signs of a dirty cabin air filter. However, a dirty cabin filter can lead to other, more serious issues that aren't just limited to dust and odors. So what happens if the filter is dirty and what are the symptoms of a dirty cabin air filter? Our experts are here to give you the answers.

What Does the Cabin Air Filter Do?

Think of the cabin air filter as your car's respiratory system. It filters out dust, pollen, and even exhaust gases before entering your vehicle's cabin. This filter ensures that the air circulating within your vehicle is clean and free from contaminants. It not only preserves the air quality inside your car but also protects vital HVAC components from dust, maintaining the longevity of your car's heating and cooling systems.

What Happens If Your Cabin Air Filter Is Dirty?

Ignoring your cabin air filter can lead to a handful of issues you'd rather avoid. A dirty cabin air filter puts extra strain on your car's HVAC system, making it work harder to circulate air. This not only leads to reduced efficiency from your car's A/C and heater, meaning longer times to cool or heat the car's interior, but it can also wear out the HVAC system faster. Then there's the air quality in your car; a clogged filter means more pollutants and allergens will enter your vehicle and affect your health. A dirty cabin air filter can also make your car's defroster less effective, making it difficult to clear the windshield in colder conditions.

How to Tell if Your Cabin Air Filter is Dirty

Leaves, sand and other debris can get stuck in the cabin air filter over time. As the filter becomes saturated with debris, you will notice the following symptoms that signal a dirty cabin air filter:

Reduced airflow from vents
The heater and A/C are not as efficient as they should be
Dust blows from the vents
A musty or moldy smell comes from the vents when the heat/defroster is on
Loud fan noise
Longer time for windshield fog to dissipate

Cabin Air Filter Maintenance

Maintaining a clean cabin air filter is both easy and affordable, and it all comes down to regular maintenance. Consult your car's owner's manual to find out how often you should change the cabin air filter. If you notice symptoms like reduced airflow from the vents or inefficient heater and air conditioner, changing the filter is recommended even if it hasn't reached its service life. Driving in areas with high air pollution or dusty roads can accelerate the filter's wear, necessitating more frequent changes.

Questions? We're here to help. Reach out the FRAM specialists for product and maintenance support.

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