Do you sneeze or get watery eyes whenever you sit in the car?
Does your AC vent emit foul, musty odors, too?
These instances together may sound bizarre, but a clogged cabin air filter is most likely guilty for both.
A cabin air filter provides clean air to breathe and keeps your ride comfy. However, if it fails, only a replacement can restore your comfort.
So, how much does a cabin air filter replacement cost?
Let’s examine the possible expenses, the factors that affect them, and how you can save money on this vital replacement.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does a Cabin Air Filter Replacement Cost?
- Is It Worth Replacing the Dirty Air Filter?
- 6 Looming Signs You Need a Cabin Air Filter Replacement
- How Often Should You Change a Cabin Air Filter?
- What Causes a Cabin Air Filter Failure?
- Can You Replace a Dirty Cabin Air Filter Yourself?
- How Are Cabin Air Filter and Engine Air Filter Different?
- How to Save Money on a Cabin Air Filter Replacement
How Much Does a Cabin Air Filter Replacement Cost?
Here’s what you might pay for replacing the dirty filter:
A. Range
It’ll roughly cost around $50 to $220 to replace a cabin air filter. This range covers:
- Cabin air filter cost: $20 to $50
- Labor costs: $30 to $170
B. Factors Affecting Cost
Some additional aspects that impact your total costs include:
- Car model and make: Luxury high-performance vehicles require specialized, high-quality cabin air filters, which may be costlier than standard ones.
- Filter type: You’ll find different filter types, such as a particle filter, bi-component filter, activated carbon filter, and HEPA filter (high-efficiency particulate air). Installing a carbon filter is the costliest due to its multi-layered design. Meanwhile, a HEPA filter provides maximum filtration.
- Technician’s experience: Mechanics with years of expertise can quickly find the issue with the filter and repair or replace it promptly. However, they’ll charge higher hourly labor rates, affecting your final bill.
- Extra repairs: Using the HVAC system with a damaged, clogged filter can stress other parts and wear them out quickly. Fixing even one of the HVAC components, like the AC compressor, can cost around $1,200.
Is It Worth Replacing the Dirty Air Filter?
Definitely!
Not replacing a clogged filter can lead to three significant problems:
- You breathe unsafe, contaminated air: An air filter usually traps allergens, harmful particles, and other contaminants to ensure safe cabin air. But if it’s packed with dirt or debris, bacteria can accumulate, contaminating the air you breathe. This air can be extremely harmful, especially if you’re allergic to dust and pollen.
- Your HVAC system overworks: When dust, leaves, and debris severely clog the filter, they impede the system’s functionality. Due to this, the heating and air conditioning system won’t work efficiently to adjust the cabin temperature. This can prematurely wear them out, warranting costly repairs.
- The defogging feature takes longer: During hot, humid conditions, a clean cabin air filter works with the HVAC system to defog your windshield for better visibility. If the filter is clogged, the defogging will be slower, putting you at risk of an accident.
If a clogged filter is not replaced in a timely manner, it can become a health and safety hazard. If you suspect it is failing, schedule an inspection.
6 Looming Signs You Need a Cabin Air Filter Replacement
When the cabin filter fails, you’ll suffer from several issues, such as:
- Unpleasant or musty odors emitting from the vents
- You sneeze, or your eyes water every time you sit inside the vehicle
- Dust buildup in the cabin
- Excess rattling or buzzing noise from the engine when the AC is on
- Weak or inconsistent airflow from the vents
- Defogging takes longer than usual
How Often Should You Change a Cabin Air Filter?
You should replace the cabin filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or more frequently if you’re prone to pollen allergies or live in a dusty environment. You can also refer to your owner’s manual for the prescribed maintenance schedule specific to your vehicle.
What Causes a Cabin Air Filter Failure?
Your air filter can wear prematurely due to the following reasons:
- You drive frequently on dusty roads
- You live in a polluted region with poor air quality
- You drive in heavy traffic, often
- You’ve installed an ill-fitting cabin air filter
Can You Replace a Dirty Cabin Air Filter Yourself?
You can, but it’s best to avoid a DIY replacement.
To change the old filter, you need to disassemble components, such as the glove box and, in some vehicles, the dash. Moreover, improper installation can damage the new filter and overwork the HVAC system, leading to additional repairs in the future.
Ask a mechanic to help you with the filter change to ensure correct installation based on your vehicle’s make and model.
If you still wish to know how it’s done, here are some steps they’ll follow:
- Park the car on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
- Empty the glove box and loosen its screws or bolts.
- Pull and remove the glove box.
- Open the cabin filter housing and carefully remove the old filter.
- Install the new filter.
- Ensure the airflow direction arrow points in the direction of the airflow that is, towards the cabin.
- Reinstall the glove box and tighten its bolts.
- Switch on the AC or heater to check whether it works smoothly without creating noise or emitting odors.
How Are Cabin Air Filter and Engine Air Filter Different?
Cabin and engine filters trap dirt and debris but serve distinct functions. Here’s how they differ:
- Cabin air filter: Usually located behind the glove box or dashboard, this filter cleans the air entering the cabin by trapping pollen, harmful particles, and other airborne contaminants. A clogged or damaged filter can lead to issues like musty odors or allergy symptoms while driving.
- Engine air filter: This filter near the top or side of your car’s engine ensures that filtered, clean air enters the combustion chamber for ignition. A failing engine air filter can cause sluggish acceleration, misfiring, or stalling.
Replacing both filters on time is pivotal to keeping their associated systems clean and ensuring smooth operation.
However, replacing one filter doesn’t mean you need to replace the other. They’re separate components with different maintenance schedules. If you’re unsure which one needs attention, consult a mechanic before spending on a replacement.
How to Save Money on a Cabin Air Filter Replacement
Use these tips to cut down on the filter replacement cost:
- Search for discounted replacement cabin filters on shopping websites.
- Compare offers and deals from multiple service centers or dealerships to choose one that fits your budget.
- Bundle cabin air filter replacement with other services, such as an oil filter change. Some service centers offer reduced prices when you opt for these services together.
Enjoy Clean, Fresh-Air Rides with AutoNation Mobile Service
Cabin air filters help keep your car interior allergen-free and improve airflow when the HVAC system runs, giving you a comfortable ride. Yet, they’re often overlooked — until problems arise.
Need a quick way to confirm whether you have a dirty filter?
Call the experts at AutoNation Mobile Service. Our mechanics can swiftly identify and replace a clogged filter right from your driveway.
We’re available seven days a week and offer simple online bookings, so you can schedule a filter inspection at your convenience.
Book your cabin air filter replacement today and breathe cleaner, fresher air in your car!