Got Fresh Air?

“What is a cabin air filter?”

This is an accessory found on most late model cars and trucks. It filters or cleans the outside air as it enters the interior of the vehicle through the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system. It will filter out dust, pollen, mold spores, leaves and other airborne material. This is a huge advantage if you have allergies.

“How often does a cabin air filter need to be changed?”

The recommendations from manufactures vary, but range from 12,000 – 30,000 miles. However this does not take into account the type of weather and humidity that you typically experience where you live.

Here in the “Willamette Valley” we often experience cool humid weather which can lead to a damp musty “cabin air filter”. This in turn can cause exactly the types of odors that we are trying to avoid inside our cars.

One more thing to factor in is where you park. Is it under or near a tree or trees? This will often lead to plugged filters which can cause the “blower motor” or the “air conditioning system to work harder and greatly reduce its efficiency.

Do you live on a dirt road or near one of the many grass fields here in the valley? These are conditions that will lead to a plugged filter.

Here at London’s Automotive, Inc. we recommend that the cabin air filter is at least inspected once a year. Through regular “preventive maintenance” we can help determine the best interval for your vehicle, climate and driving conditions, thereby maximizing the life of the filter and minimizing the cost of maintenance.

“How much does it cost to replace a cabin air filter?”

This varies a fair amount from vehicle to vehicle. Some are located behind the glove box and slip in and out easily. Others can be significantly more difficult and labor intensive. The last factor in cost of repair is the type of filter media. Filters run from a basic pleated paper filter to expensive HEPA filters. So with all that stated, a fair range for most vehicles is between $45 and $80. High end vehicles can range higher.

For More information on cabin air filters visit here  http://londonsautomotiveinc.napaautotools.com/topic/cabin-air-filter/

I hope this answers most of your questions about cabin air filters. If you have more questions or need to have your filter replaced please give us a call or stop by and see us at London’s Automotive, Inc. 541-753-4444 or email Bob@LondonsAuto.com