Cabin air filter (air conditioning filter, cabin air filter) is an important part of the car's air conditioning system. Its main function is to filter the air from the outside before bringing it into the interior compartment, helping to ensure that the air in the car is always fresh and safe for the occupants.
According to a 2023 study by the World Health Organization (WHO), the air in a car cabin can contain 4-10 times more pollutants than the air outside. Notably, a standard cabin air filter can remove up to 98% of PM2.5 fine dust particles, 95% of allergens such as pollen, and 99% of bacteria larger than 0.3 micrometers.
However, according to statistics from auto maintenance centers, up to 70% of car users do not replace the cabin air filter regularly, leading to many health risks and reduced performance of the air conditioning system (HVAC).
So, when should you replace your cabin air filter? Cabin air filters need to be replaced after 12-15 months of use or when signs of weak airflow or unpleasant odors appear in the vehicle. This article, Thanh Phong Auto will provide detailed information on when and how to replace the cabin air filter to maintain a clean space in the car.
Cabin air filters are extremely important for protecting respiratory health and maintaining the efficiency of the air conditioning system. This device filters out 99% of dust, pollen, and harmful fumes before the air enters the vehicle cabin. It works by filtering out pollutants such as dust, pollen, smoke, and mold before the air enters the cabin, helping to prevent respiratory problems and allergies.
Not only that, the cabin air filter also helps maintain the performance and prolong the life of the HVAC system by preventing dirt from clogging components, thereby reducing repair costs and increasing the efficiency of the system. Regular replacement of the cabin air filter is extremely important to ensure that the air in the vehicle is always fresh and the HVAC system operates optimally.
The cabin air filter is an important part of the HVAC system in a car, which is responsible for removing pollutants from the outside air before it circulates into the car's cabin. Specifically, this filter works by using a layer of filter material, usually paper or synthetic fibers, to trap dust particles, pollen, smoke, mold, and other contaminants. As the air passes through the HVAC system, it passes through the cabin air filter, where the pollutants are trapped, ensuring that clean, fresh air is blown into the cabin.
According to a 2023 study by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), standard cabin air filters remove up to 99% of particles between 3-10 microns in size.
Cabin air filters play an important role in protecting the health and enhancing comfort for car users.
A 2022 Harvard School of Public Health study found that HEPA cabin air filters reduce PM80 and pollen in car cabins by up to 2.5%.
Cabin air filters not only affect air quality, but also impact the performance and longevity of your HVAC system.
According to a 2023 study by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), a clogged cabin air filter can reduce the cooling efficiency of the air conditioning system by 25-35% (average 30%), while increasing fuel consumption by 8-12% (average 10%).
There are three common types of cabin air filters – from standard (basic dust filter) to activated carbon (odor and chemical removal) and HEPA (bacteria and virus filter). Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. To choose the right filter, consider your vehicle, your needs and your budget.
Standard cabin air filters are the most common type, typically made from paper or synthetic fibers.
For example, a standard filter can remove dust particles larger than 10 micrometers (0.01 mm) with an efficiency of 80-90%.
The activated carbon cabin air filter is equipped with an additional layer of activated carbon, which helps absorb odors, toxic gases and chemical pollutants.
For example, activated carbon filters can absorb up to 90% of pollutants such as benzene, toluene, and formaldehyde.
HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) cabin air filter is the most advanced type, capable of filtering ultra-fine dust particles, bacteria and viruses with very high efficiency.
For example, a HEPA filter can remove up to 99.97% of dust particles 0.3 microns or larger in size, including bacteria and viruses.
To choose the right cabin air filter, you need to consider the following 3 factors:
For example, if you drive in a city with heavy traffic and severe air pollution, an activated carbon filter would be a better choice than a standard filter. Conversely, if you live in a rural area with clean air, a standard filter may suffice.
Cabin air filters need to be replaced if you notice poor airflow, unpleasant odors in the car, or increased fuel consumption. Additionally, if you or a loved one has allergies, notice a lot of dust on the interior, or hear strange noises from the air conditioning system, these are also signs. Replacing the filter early helps protect your health, save money, and prolong the life of your air conditioning system.
The three most obvious signs include: 3-30% less airflow than normal, a musty or foul smell in the cabin, and a 50-10% increase in fuel consumption.
For example, vehicles operating in environments with PM2.5 dust concentrations above 50 μg/m³ (such as industrial zones and construction sites) will need to replace the filter after 8-10 months instead of 12-15 months as recommended by manufacturers such as Toyota and Honda.
Three less obvious signs you should also look out for include: allergies or respiratory problems, excessive dust on interior surfaces, and unusual noises from the HVAC system.
It is important to recognize early signs of cabin air filter replacement because:
According to a 2023 study by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE International), replacing the cabin air filter regularly can save 10-15% on fuel costs and reduce the risk of blower motor failure by 60%.
According to a survey by the Vietnam Automobile Association in 2024, replacing the cabin air filter yourself can save 200.000-500.000 VND in labor costs at the garage. The process only takes 15-30 minutes for people with basic car experience. Below are 4 detailed step-by-step instructions so you can do it yourself.
Step 1 – Prepare necessary tools and materials
Step 2 – Locate the cabin air filter
The location of the cabin air filter can vary depending on the vehicle. Typically, it is located in one of the following locations:
On over 80% of Toyota Vios models from 2018 onwards, the cabin air filter is located behind the front storage compartment.
Step 3 – Remove and install the cabin air filter
Step 4 – Check and finalize
According to a survey from Thanh Phong Auto in 2024, 15% of cases still had an unpleasant odor after changing the filter due to mold buildup in the evaporator or HVAC ducts.
Cabin air filters need to be serviced every 12-15 months or 15.000-20.000km to maintain optimal filtration efficiency. Maintenance includes four main methods: smart driving, regular interior cleaning, periodic inspections and the use of supporting products.
To minimize the amount of dust in your car, avoid highly polluted areas, keep windows closed and use the air conditioning's recirculation mode when driving.
According to a 2023 study by the Institute of Environment and Resources, closing windows and turning on air recirculation while passing through a construction area significantly reduces the amount of dust entering the vehicle cabin.
To keep your car's cabin clean, vacuum and wipe surfaces regularly, and use an air freshener to keep the air in your car fresh.
To ensure clean air in your vehicle, check and replace your cabin air filter regularly, and clean your HVAC system to remove mold and bacteria.
To enhance air quality, use an in-car air purifier and HVAC system disinfectant to effectively remove contaminants, mold, and bacteria.
The car air purifier is capable of filtering ultra-fine dust particles from 0.1-0.3 microns, including bacteria, viruses and allergens such as pollen. The filtration efficiency of the portable air purifier reaches 99.97% according to HEPA H13 standards.
Yes, a clogged cabin air filter can reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system, causing your engine to work harder and use more fuel. See also: How to improve fuel consumption on gasoline engines effective.
Cabin air filters should not be cleaned for reuse, as this may damage the filter structure and reduce air filtration efficiency. Instead, you should replace the filter periodically.
Yes, even if your vehicle is rarely used, the cabin air filter can become clogged with dust and mold over time. You should check and replace the filter regularly, at least once a year.
Yes, cabin air filters come in different sizes and specifications depending on the vehicle. You need to choose the right filter for your vehicle.
You should buy cabin air filters at reputable auto parts stores or on genuine online sales websites. Check the label, packaging and anti-counterfeit stamp to ensure the product is genuine.
HEPA cabin air filters can filter out microscopic dust particles, including the Corona virus. However, the effectiveness of virus filtration depends on many factors, such as the size of the virus and the air circulation speed. See the article now: Clean and deodorize cars – 9+ simple, extremely effective tips.
Yes, a clogged cabin air filter can reduce the effectiveness of your vehicle's heater, causing it to take longer to warm up and use more fuel.
If your car does not have a cabin air filter, you should install one to improve the air quality in your car and protect your health. See the product now: Aluminum alloy car negative ion air purifier.
Yes, cabin air filters have a limited lifespan. You should replace the filter as recommended by the manufacturer or when it shows signs of needing replacement.
With many years of experience in the field of auto repair and maintenance, Thanh Phong Auto proud to bring customers professional, high quality cabin air filter repair and replacement services. Why choose Thanh Phong Auto?
With the above advantages, Thanh Phong Auto is confident to be a reliable address for cabin air filter repair and replacement services in Ho Chi Minh City, bringing maximum satisfaction to customers. See more articles: What to note when replacing/maintaining car air filters?
Above is the basic information about cabin air filters that drivers need to know. Proper care and replacement of filters will help protect health, increase vehicle life and save repair costs. Contact Thanh Phong Auto immediately to get the best protection for your "beloved car".
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