Let's Talk Cars - Cabin Filter Replacement

Almost all late model care have cabin filters. You, like many people, may never have heard of them and even if you did, you probably know little about replacing them. I have always had, and still do, at least one "older" model car. I was reminded of that recently when I was driving down the highway and a small leaf, seriously, blew into my truck from the air conditioning vent. That's definitely a sign that you don't have a cabin filter.

Not to be confused with the air filter all cars have for their engines, cabin filters are mounted inside the car and they filter the air coming in, or being recirculated in the car. With COVID 19 being so prevalent, as well as many suffering from allergies, it's important that you change the filter, or filters, as some cars have two. Replacement is typically recommended between 15,000 and 30,000 miles, but don't hesitate to do it more often, under our current conditions. I just replaced mine in my pickup, it has two, and I purchased both online for a total cost of a little less than $20.00. It took less than 5 minutes to complete the process.

The filters can be purchased at an auto parts store, dealership, or online. Remember when doing so, that they come in varying quality, as most things do, and you want to check how small of particles they filter. The smaller, the better!

Even if you don't have much, or any experience with car maintenance, you most likely can replace the filter yourself. Dealerships and auto repair shops can replace them, but will usually charge you at least a minimum labor charge.

OK, let's get to the "how to" part. The filters are usually located behind the glove box of your car. It typically involves you opening the glove box, squeezing the sides inward, so the door hangs down, then reaching directly behind, opening a sliding plastic door and pulling the filters out. Since every car is different, we are not going through this step by step, but you should not have any trouble finding a YouTube video demonstrating how to change it in your particular car model, or check your Owner's Manual.

If you'd rather not do this yourself, most automotive shops are currently taking
steps to protect customers and workers when servicing your car. Don't
delay necessary service out of fear. If unsure, ask your service provider for complete information.

I have worked with cars in one
capacity, or another, most of my life. I have 2 cars I have restored,
and show at car shows, as well as a few more I drive more regularly. I
do my best to keep up with the latest in technology and all that is
involved with the auto industry. I attend auto trade shows, read the
latest information available, as well as attend car shows and host my
own show. For more information on my show and to see more pics of my
Milano Maroon 1965 Corvette and my Gun Metal Grey 1967 El Camino SS, as
well as the many cars that attend, check out my Facebook Page…
https://www.facebook.com/CoolH...
Car show info, or questions….. frankcoolharbornights@gmail.com
Feel free to contact me with any questions and/or suggestions relative to this column…
Frank Besnyi - frankpatchca@yahoo.com