A failing cabin air filter diminishes air quality inside the car, while a faulty engine air filter can compromise engine performance.
In either case, it’s best not to delay — consult an expert mechanic for air filter replacement ASAP.
Wondering how much will the air filter replacement cost?
We’ll guide you through the replacement costs and warning signs of a failing air filter, helping you address the issue before it escalates into bigger problems. Additionally, we’ll explore whether DIY replacement is a viable option.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does an Air Filter Replacement Cost?
- Is It Worth Replacing a Faulty Air Filter?
- Signs You Need an Air Filter Replacement
- How Often Should You Change the Air Filters?
- Can You Replace the Air Filter Yourself?
- What Other Types of Filters Do Cars Have?
How Much Does an Air Filter Replacement Cost?
Here’s what you can expect to pay for installing a new air filter:
A. Range
Replacing an engine air filter costs between $55 to $215.
This includes:
- Cost of replacement filter: $30 to $45
- Cost of labor: $25 to $170
Conversely, changing a damaged cabin air filter costs around $50 to $220.
This includes:
- Cost of replacement filter: $20 to $50
- Cost of labor: $30 to $170
B. Factors Affecting Cost
Air filter replacement charges can vary based on local labor costs as well as the make and model of your car.
Other factors that can influence your auto repair bill are:
- Type of air filter: Carbon-based cabin air filters offer superior filtration and odor elimination, making them more expensive than standard cabin air filters. Similarly, synthetic engine air filters cost more than paper ones due to their higher durability and superior ability to capture smaller particles.
- OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) vs. aftermarket parts: Original Equipment Manufacturer air filters will cost more than aftermarket ones, but the former assures better quality and performance.
- Additional repairs: If other components, such as the Mass Air Flow sensor or blower motor, are damaged, your mechanic will include their repair costs in the final bill. For example, a new blower motor can add another $250 to $270 to your total bill.
Is It Worth Replacing a Faulty Air Filter?
Yes, indeed.
Air filters trap dirt and airborne contaminants to maintain clean air inside the car. However, they can become clogged over time.
When your cabin filter gets dirty, it negatively impacts the air quality inside your car. Further, it may reduce the HVAC system (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) efficiency — making drives less comfortable.
Similarly, neglecting a dirty engine air filter can lead to noticeable drops in engine performance and increased fuel consumption.
Why?
A clogged air filter restricts airflow, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. This allows airborne particles and other harmful contaminants to damage internal components and increase exhaust emissions.
Signs You Need an Air Filter Replacement
A dirty engine air filter will exhibit these symptoms:
- Illuminated check engine light
- Rough idling
- Slow acceleration
- Poor fuel efficiency
- Engine misfires
- Black smoke from the exhaust
- Hissing noise from under the hood when idling
- Fuel odor from the exhaust pipe
However, if you’re dealing with a clogged cabin air or HVAC filter, you may notice:
- Foul smell from the vents
- Reduced airflow from the dashboard vents
- A whistling sound from the cabin air intake ducts
- Loud noises from the vehicle’s heating or cooling system
How Often Should You Change the Air Filters?
You should replace the engine and cabin air filters every 12 months or 12,000 miles.
However, if you frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic or dusty, polluted areas, you’ll need to change the filters more often.
Can You Replace the Air Filter Yourself?
No, it’s best to rely on a professional mechanic to replace a dirty filter, especially if you’re inexperienced with car repairs.
Here’s how your mechanic will perform the engine air filter replacement:
- Park the car on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and turn off the ignition. Lift the hood and secure it with a prop rod.
- Find the engine air filter box, typically located under the hood towards the front of the vehicle.
- Unfasten the hose clamp that seals the air conduit and remove all screws holding the air filter cover in place. Detach the cover from the air conduit and lift it off the lower part of the air filter box.
- Take out the dirty air filter.
- Use compressed air or a vacuum to remove dust from the air filter box. To prevent airborne particles from entering the engine, temporarily seal the air passage with removable tape.
- Insert the new, clean air filter into the air filter box, making sure the rubber rim faces up and fits securely against the edges.
- To reassemble, press the cover back onto the lower part of the air filter box. Finally, tighten all screws, rock the unit with both hands to ensure everything is fine, and close the hood.
If you’ve taken your car to the repair shop for cabin air filter replacement, here’s how your mechanic will go about it:
- Park your vehicle on a flat surface and engage the parking brake. Place an old towel on the passenger side floor to catch any debris that might fall out during the cabin air filter replacement.
- The cabin filter is typically located behind the glove box. So, your mechanic will empty the glove box, remove any screws or bolts securing it to the dashboard, and carefully pull it out.
- Locate and open the cabin air filter housing. Remove the old filter and vacuum the area if necessary.
- Verify that the new HVAC filter matches the specifications of the old filter.
- Place the clean air filter in the same orientation as the old one.
- Reattach the glove box to the dashboard, ensuring all screws, clips, or tabs are securely fastened.
What Other Types of Filters Do Cars Have?
Besides air filters, cars have other filters that help safeguard vital components and optimize vehicle performance. These include:
- Oil filter: The oil filter traps debris and dirt, ensuring clean oil flows continuously. It’s vital for your car’s smooth operation and improving fuel efficiency.
- Fuel filter: Located within the fuel line, the fuel filter prevents dirt, grime, and water from entering the engine. It contains a cartridge with a fine mesh screen that ensures only clean fuel reaches the injector.
Fix Your Car Air Filter for Better Performance
Don’t overlook the importance of timely air filter replacements — both for your engine and cabin.
Ignoring red flags like poor engine performance or reduced HVAC system efficiency can lead to more significant issues and costly repairs in the future.
Can’t make it to the repair shop?
AutoNation Mobile Service has got you covered!
Our mobile mechanics can directly come to you to handle your car air filter needs right in your driveway.
Schedule an appointment online for professional HVAC component replacement, cabin air intake duct repair service, oil filter change, and more — available seven days a week.