Although often overlooked by drivers, it’s important to make sure your cabin air filter is clean. By checking the cabin air filter you’re taking care of your vehicle, your passengers, and yourself.

What does the cabin air filter do?

Unlike the engine air filter, which helps keep dust and debris out of your motor, a cabin filter helps purify the air that you breathe inside the vehicle.

According to Cars.com, cabin air filters are commonly found on late-model vehicles and are intended to prevent dust, pollen and harmful airborne particles from aggravating allergic reactions or respiratory problems in drivers and passengers. 

How often do I need to change my cabin air filter?

These filters tend to follow a similar replacement schedule—between 12,000 and 15,000 miles on average—with recommended replacement intervals being outlined in your owner’s manual. Unlike engine air filters under the hood, however, your cabin air filter is likely either located behind the glove box or near the HVAC intake.

These filters tend to run at a higher cost than engine air filters but are worth maintaining regularly because they make being in the vehicle a much more palatable experience. When it comes to replacing your filters, you can simply tack it on to your service order the next time you get an oil change or have other maintenance services performed on your vehicle at Valvoline Instant Oil Change.