Dave Hopkins Auto Repairs

Your local mechanic, backed by Repco.

Is the air in your car dangerous to health?

CABIN FILTERS are fitted to most post 2000 vehicles. Many people are familiar with the existence of air filters for the engine but are not often aware of the fact that a cabin filter also exists to protect the occupants.

Spring Driving: The Importance of Replacing Your Cabin Filter

As spring arrives, it brings with it warmer weather, longer days, and unfortunately for many, an increase in airborne allergens like pollen. For those who spend a significant amount of time in their car, the quality of the air inside the cabin becomes especially important during this season. Cabin filters play a crucial role in keeping the air you breathe clean, helping to reduce exposure to irritants that can affect your health and comfort. Ensuring your cabin filter is in top condition this spring is an essential step towards creating a healthier and more pleasant driving environment for you and your passengers.

How Cabin Filters Work to Protect You

Cabin filters, installed in most modern vehicles, serve as a barrier between the outside air and the air circulating inside your car. These filters are designed to trap particles such as pollen, dust, dirt, and even mould spores, preventing them from entering your vehicle through the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (AC) system. During spring, when pollen counts are often at their highest, this function becomes especially vital. For allergy sufferers, a functioning cabin filter can significantly reduce symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and respiratory irritation by filtering out allergens before they can affect you.

Cabin filters don’t just stop pollen—they also prevent larger debris like leaves and other external particles from clogging your AC system. This helps maintain a clean and fresh airflow, ensuring your car remains a comfortable and healthy space, particularly during the peak of allergy season.

Don't wait till this happens!

It is recommended to replace the CABIN FILTER every 15,000 to 30,000kms depending on the vehicle manufacturer recommendation and the way you use your vehicle. The photos here show a new white cabin filter, compared to the state a cabin filter can get into when it is not regularly checked and changed.

Why Regular Cabin Filter Replacement Matters

Replacing your cabin filter regularly, especially during spring, is an important part of car maintenance that benefits both your health and your vehicle’s performance. A fresh cabin filter improves air quality by efficiently removing allergens and pollutants, creating a cleaner breathing environment for you and your passengers. For those with hay fever or other sensitivities, this can mean a noticeable reduction in discomfort while driving

Additionally, regular replacement of the cabin filter supports the efficiency of your vehicle’s AC system. A clogged or dirty filter can restrict airflow, causing your heater or air conditioner to work harder than necessary. This can lead to higher energy consumption and reduced performance. By ensuring your cabin filter is clean and functioning optimally, you can enjoy a consistently comfortable temperature inside your car, regardless of the conditions outside.

Spring is the perfect time to give your car the attention it needs to keep you and your passengers breathing easy. Schedule a vehicle inspection today and let our experienced mechanics check and replace your cabin filter as part of our thorough service. Besides providing a much cleaner breathing environment for you and your passengers, regular replacement of the CABIN FILTER can assist your heater and air conditioner to work at peak performance.

Dave Hopkins Auto Repairs check the condition of your CABIN FILTER as part of our 65 point Vehicle Inspection with every full car and log book service.