It’s hard to beat springtime in Nashville—sunny days, lush green trees, and flowers in bloom.
The only downside? Nashville’s notorious spring allergies.
While you might blame the yellow coat of pollen on your car’s exterior for your sniffles, that isn’t the only place pollen is building up in your vehicle.
Your cabin air filter is constantly working to filter out dust, pollen, and other allergens. The health of your cabin air filter can seriously impact your health and the air quality of your car’s interior.
Over time, cabin air filters become clogged and lose effectiveness. Just like the air filters in your home HVAC, it’s essential to regularly check and replace cabin air filters.
Here are six signs that you need to replace your cabin air filter:
1. Reduced Airflow from Vents
One of the most noticeable signs of a clogged cabin air filter is weak airflow when using the heating or air conditioning system. If it feels like your vents aren’t pushing out as much air as they used to, a dirty filter could be the culprit.
2. Unpleasant Odors Inside the Car
A musty, stale, or dusty smell inside your vehicle can be a sign that your cabin air filter is overdue for a change. When the filter becomes clogged with dirt, bacteria, and mold, it can trap unpleasant odors and recirculate them throughout your car. Failure to have filters changed on a regular basis may result in bacteria or mold infestation of the evaporator core.
3. Increased Allergy or Respiratory Issues
If you or your passengers start experiencing more allergy symptoms, sneezing, or respiratory discomfort while driving, it could be due to a dirty cabin air filter. A clogged filter allows allergens and pollutants to enter the cabin, reducing air quality.
4. Foggy Windows That Take Longer to Clear
Your car’s cabin air filter helps regulate airflow, which plays a role in defogging your windows. If your windshield takes longer to clear up on humid or cold days, your filter may be too dirty to allow proper airflow.
5. Unusual Noises from the HVAC System
A clogged cabin air filter can force your vehicle’s HVAC system to work harder, sometimes resulting in strange whistling or buzzing sounds when the fan is on. If you hear unusual noises coming from the vents, it’s worth checking the filter.
6. Visible Dirt and Debris on the Filter
If you remove the cabin air filter and see excessive dirt, leaves, or debris built up, it’s time for a replacement. A clean filter is typically white or off-white, while a dirty one will appear dark and clogged with contaminants.
How Often Should Your Cabin Air Filter Be Changed?
For most European and Asian cars, cabin air filters are recommended 1x a year or every 15,000-20,000 miles.
However, if you frequently drive in urban areas, dusty conditions, or pollen-heavy seasons in Nashville, you may need to replace it more often.
If you have questions about the signs of a bad cabin air filter or when to replace the cabin air filter, contact our import auto maintenance shop today. Our team of expert car mechanics can advise you on how to keep your car running smoothly and you feeling your best.
At Import Specialty Service, we specialize in European car repair and Asian car repair in Nashville.
Schedule your appointment online to get your cabin air filter replaced, along with a thorough safety check of your imported vehicle. Book your appointment now.
