Signs It’s Time to Change the Cabin Filter

December 11, 2020

The holidays are now here, and it's important to save money where you can – especially when it comes to your vehicle. Most drivers try to cut cost by deciding against replacing their vehicle's air filter. Neglecting the air filter can have an impact on performance. It's a less than desirable move when there are other ways to save money on vehicle and maintenance that don't involve impacting performance. Depending on driving habits and the environment, the air filter should be replaced every 15,000 miles or once a year. If you're in doubt, check your vehicle's owner's manual. Below are a few ways to determine whether your car's air filter needs to be replaced. 


The cabin filter prevents you from breathing in dust, debris, dirt, and pollen by filtering out before entering the HVAC system. It helps provide healthy, clean air for you and your engine. Over time the filter will become caked with pollutants and need to be replaced if the cabin air filter is neglected the air volume that blows through the vents and collects in the engine. 


Signs it's time to replace the cabin filter: 

 A musty odor starts flowing through the vents. 

 Reduced air circulation in the cabin. 

 A decrease in heating and air conditioning performance. 

 There's a decrease in gas mileage. 

 A caked and discolored air filter. 

 There's a noticeable decrease in horsepower.

 The check engine light comes on. 

The cabin air filter can be changed yourself because it's located behind the glove box. Most drivers prefer to leave this service to professionals to save time and to prevent damage. Depending on your vehicle, there may be delicate clips or parts that need to be removed before you can access the cabin filter. If you're short on time, it's best to trust the experts to replace it. 


Car Cabin Air Filter Replacement in Houston, TX 

If you suspect it’s time to replace the cabin filter, bring your vehicle into Elite Auto Experts. We are a AAA Approved Auto Repair shop that specializes in all car makes and models. Replacing the cabin filter is a quick process that should have you in and out in no time. A dirty cabin filter can stress the engine causing it to struggle to power your vehicle. Don't wait until you notice an impact on performance. Click here to schedule an appointment. 


 Or give us a call at 281-717-6712 Mon – Fri 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM.

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