Air quality is a hot topic. Many have argued that poor air quality causes negative health effects. That’s why many home and business owners use air filters in their buildings. But what about when you’re on the open road?
Luckily, most cars these days have a cabin air filter. Now you can roll up the windows and roll down a dusty road without having a coughing fit. But your cabin air filter does more than just block dust. In fact, if your allergies start acting up when you get to work, rather than during the commute, you’re probably not actually allergic to work – you just have an air filter in your car. Manufacturers have recently realized the need for a more comfortable ride and safer roads.
What Is a Cabin Air Filter?
Your cabin air filter looks like any other air filter: imagine a piece of corrugated cardboard covered with a felt-like material that resembles coffee filter paper. It’s usually under the dashboard or in the engine compartment. You may know that your vehicle’s engine has an air filter, too. And just as it protects your engine from contaminants, the cabin air filter protects you.
Your Shield Against Porous Air and Dusty Roads
A cabin air filter enables the passenger area of your car to have clean air quality. It does this by blocking everything from dust, allergens, pollutants, exhaust gas, and much more. These nifty filters can block anything larger than three microns. For reference, a grain of sand is approximately 200 microns. But, because they do their job so well, they can become clogged and need replacing.
So, When Should You Replace It?
The generally recommended replacement schedule is every year or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. Of course, every manufacturer is different – so check your owner’s manual and service intervals to be sure. Keep in mind that driving conditions with poor air quality, like dusty roads or polluted cities, can affect the rate at which the cabin air filter needs to be replaced.
Sometimes, your car will demonstrate “symptoms” of a dirty filter. These include:
- An unusual, persistent odor
- Restricted heating or A/C air flow
Even if you haven’t experienced these warnings, you could still have a dirty air filter. It’s important to check it regularly to ensure pure air quality inside your car.
Kennedy Transmissions Will Have You Breathing Easy
Some air filters are quite accessible, while others require special tools. Let Kennedy Transmissions keep your car’s air clean and comfortable with our expert know-how and diagnostic capabilities. Find your nearest Kennedy Transmission service center today for a breath of fresh air.
