How to change your passenger compartment filter
Spring and allergy season are here. You have probably already checked out our guide on how to best prepare your car for spring. There is one more thing on the list that you should check, especially if you are allergic or have other respiratory problems - the passenger compartment filter. The passenger compartment filter keeps dust, pollen, dirt and exhaust fumes away from the air conditioning system in the car and filters out allergens and pollutants that can affect breathing and the car's interior. The filter therefore contributes to a better car environment and more comfortable driving. To make it easier for you to breathe this spring, we has put together a small guide on how to change your pollen filter on your own.
What is a passenger compartment filter and what is its function?
A passenger compartment filter is a folded filter element that looks like an engine air filter, and it has about the same purpose fixed for the car's interior. It is made in layers of either paper or fabric, as well as a layer of activated carbon. The pollen filter captures allergens such as exhaust fumes, mold spores, pollen and dust, and it can neutralize odors and therefore contribute to better health. It also prevents insects, leaves and other dirt from clogging the system. The passenger compartment filter is therefore important if you want clean air inside the car. It keeps the air clean and fresh so that you and your passengers can breathe easier - which is always a big plus, especially during the allergy season.
You will find the filter in the car's system for heating, ventilation and air conditioning. On most cars, it is located in the air duct behind the dashboard on the passenger side or the glove compartment. On other cars, it can be accessed from the engine housing or cover at the windscreen wipers.
When to replace the passenger compartment filter?
If you wait too long, a clogged passenger compartment filter can lead to disgusting odors over time as bacteria grow on the trapped particles.
The time interval for changing the passenger compartment filter varies depending on the car model and vintage you have, so you should always check the owner's manual for more information. Which area you drive in also affects how often you have to change filters. In general, most passenger compartment filters should be replaced approximately every 30,000 km. You should change the passenger compartment filter at least once a year, no matter how many miles you have driven.
If you drive in areas with a lot of pollution or on gravel roads, you should change the passenger compartment filter more often. Allergy sufferers or people with asthma and other respiratory problems should change filters twice a year at each change of season to ensure optimal air quality and reduce allergic reactions.
Symptoms of a bad or clogged passenger compartment filter
If you notice one or more of these signs, you will probably need to change the passenger compartment filter as soon as possible:
- Reduced airflow when air conditioning is on . If you notice that the air flow is weak even though the heat or air conditioning is at max, it may be due to a clogged passenger compartment filter.
- The car's air conditioning, both heating and cooling, does not work as efficiently . It is impossible to heat or cool the car properly with a clogged filter.
- There is a smell of mold in the car . Unpleasant odors come from the air system.
- An unusual whistling sound or too much noise in general when the air conditioning is on.
- Difficult to remove moisture from the windshield . If the windscreen is difficult to clean in humid weather conditions, it may be due to reduced air flow via a dirty passenger compartment filter.
3 reasons why you should change the passenger compartment filter in the spring
Pollen
The most common reason for changing the passenger compartment filter in the spring is to ensure that you do not inhale pollen, which is often a big problem in the spring if you are allergic to pollen. Although a filter should normally be replaced every 30,000 km, it is a good investment for health to replace it at the end of the spring season as well. This avoids any allergens that remain in the ventilation system even when the pollen season is over.
Clean car
The spring brings completely new weather conditions and the air conditioning is used much more, which puts an extra load on the passenger compartment filter. It is not just pollen and dust that can enter the ventilation system. Dirt and contaminants clog the filter and can lead to dust inside the car.
The efficiency of air conditioning
The passenger compartment filter can also reduce the efficiency of the air conditioner as both the air conditioner and the heater become clogged and thus have reduced performance.
Replacement of passenger compartment filter
Before you start, check the car's service manual to see where the passenger compartment filter is located. In some cars it may be called "cabin micro-air filter" or "air-conditioning" or "dust filter".
The customer service at my blog is happy to help you make compatibility checks for the passenger compartment filter you want to buy.
Always write down the date and mileage each time you change the passenger compartment filter so that you know when it's time to do it next time.
Here's how :
- Find the car's passenger compartment filter . The location of the passenger compartment filter varies from car to car, and you can find the exact position in the service manual. It is often located behind the glovebox or under the dashboard on the passenger side of an air duct. Look for a rectangular door. The glove compartment may need to be lowered or removed to gain access.
- Remove the old passenger compartment filter . Once you have located the filter housing, remove the clamps, screws or latches that secure the housing. Check the filter. If it's dirty, it's time to change it.
- Clean the air duct . Vacuum the filter chamber and then wipe with a damp cloth to remove any contaminants. Check gaskets and seals to ensure they do not need to be replaced.
- Install the new passenger compartment filter . First and foremost, make sure that the new passenger compartment filter matches the old one. Install the new filter so that you maintain the correct direction of airflow - the arrows on the new filter should point in the same direction as on the old filter you picked out.
- Replace and then fix the glovebox . Secure the filter with the screws or clamps you removed. If you removed them, attach the glovebox or dashboard.
What can go wrong
Normally, it is very easy to change the passenger compartment filter. You do not need any real prior knowledge or tools. The only serious error that can occur when you replace the passenger compartment filter is if you install the filter in the wrong place. If the filter is installed in the wrong place, large dirt particles will clog the finer layers, which results in a significantly shorter service life and poorer performance. Therefore, always check that the direction of air flow is correct before installing the filter.
Read more:
1. Signs of damping problems and simple repairs you can do yourself
2. How to perform a wheel alignment at home
3. Change the gearbox oil easily yourself – tips and instructions
Other things you can do to improve your car's indoor climate
If you have problems with asthma or allergies, there are several things you can do to get a better spring by keeping pollen and other allergens away from the car's interior:
- Vacuum carpets and seats regularly.
- Use a microfiber cloth and wipe the surfaces, including the door panels, steering wheel and dashboard.
- Check the door seals.
- Clean immediately after spilling to prevent mold formation.
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