How to replace a cabin air filter
Replace cabin air filter
Cabin air filter installation
The cabin air filter is located behind the glove box in most vehicles. To get to it you’ll most likely have to remove everything from the glove box and disconnect the glove box “stay;” the bracket that prevents the door from falling all the way down.
Since replacing the cabin air filter is different in each vehicle, try this link from FRAM. Enter your vehicle info and it should show you the step by step procedure.
Most cabin air filters are made from non-woven polypropylene fibers that are heat molded into a pleated pattern. The reason they use polypropylene fibers is because it has a positive charge that attracts the negatively charged dust and dirt particles.
So there’s not much difference between brands. Some have a 
cardboard frame, while others are simply molded to fit the filter tray. I’m not aware of any testing that shows that one style filters better than another, so you can buy the cheaper cabin air filter and see how long it lasts in your vehicle.
When to replace cabin air filter
The replacement interval for cabin air filters is directly related to how dusty/dirty the air is in your area. If you live in a desert area, you’ll have to change the filter more often. The only way to determine if yours needs to be changed is to give it a visual inspection. If you see dirt and debris in the pleats, it’s time to change it.
Regular versus charcoal cabin air filter
Some companies offer an upgraded cabin air filter with activated charcoal to absorb odors. If filtering out outdoor odors is important to you, buy a charcoal air filter.
Why you should replace your cabin air filter
Neglecting your cabin air filter is no different than neglecting 
your furnace filter. A clogged filter reduces airflow and that causes the blower motor to work harder. That can cause early motor failure and premature failure of the blower motor resistor. Plus, a clogged filter causes the AC and heater to work harder and be less effective. So the AC will cycle on and off more often, provide less cooling and reduce your gas mileage.
What happens when the blower motor resistor burns out? Read this post.
© 2012 Rick Muscoplat
Posted on by Rick Muscoplat