When it comes to your vehicle's air filter, it's important to stay on top of maintenance. As a general rule, your engine's air filter should be replaced every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. Meanwhile, the cabin air filter needs to be changed approximately every year. However, the exact interval for replacement can vary by manufacturer, so it's best to consult your owner's manual for exact details about your specific make and model.
Some may recommend changing the engine air filter every 45,000 miles, while others suggest closer to 25,000 miles. If you drive on busy roads, in high temperatures, or on dusty, unpaved roads, you may need to change your cabin air filter more frequently. In this case, some companies suggest changing it every 15,000 miles. To access the cabin air filter, you'll need to locate the HVAC housing under the hood or through the dashboard inside the vehicle.
You'll then need to replace it with a new filter. Generally speaking, this should be done every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. It's also a good idea to change your cabin air filter every time you change your oil. This way, you can ensure that any small problems are corrected before they become costly repairs.
If you can't tell by looking at it when it's time for a replacement, but it's been more than three years or 30,000 miles since you last changed it, you should probably buy a new one (especially if you can save money doing it yourself). When replacing your engine air filter or cabin air filter, make sure that you choose the correct engine air filter replacement. Consult your owner's manual or ask a Jiffy Lube technician for help in selecting the right one for your vehicle. Additionally, if you're buying from a luxury brand, be aware that they may charge more for their parts and require that you only buy cabin air filters from their brand.
Alternatively, you may be able to purchase a generic cabin air filter at your local automotive store. It's important to stay on top of air filter maintenance in order to keep your car running as designed and avoid any unnecessary pressure on the engines and ventilation system. If not replaced in time, a faulty filter can damage your vehicle and cause slow acceleration and the engine warning light to come on. Additionally, clogged filters can cause a strange high-pitched groan behind the dashboard or make the air conditioning system sound louder. At Jiffy Lube we have all the information and tips you need to keep your life running smoothly when it comes to getting from point A to points B, C, D and E. We have blog posts with car care tips as well as videos with car care tips so that you can expand your automotive knowledge.