Differences between engine and cabin air filters

While servicing your vehicle, you may not be surprised if your mechanic tells you it's time to change your air filter, however you may be confused if you are told that you need to two air filter replacement. Your vehicle actually has two separate air filters: a cabin air filter and an engine air filter. Each of these filters prevents harmful pollutants from entering the vehicle. So what is the difference between an engine air filter and a cabin air filter? 

What is a cabin filter?

When you think of an air filter, you probably associate it with a device used to purify the air you breathe. This is closely related to the functions performed by the cabin air filter. Located under the dashboard, this filter prevents dust and allergens from entering the car's heating and cooling system. Controlling the pollutants that enter a car can be tricky, which is why the cabin air filter works hard to ensure a safe, comfortable and healthy driving experience. 

How to Know When You Need a Cabin Filter Replacement

The frequency of air filter replacement depends on the year of manufacture, the make and model of your vehicle, and your driving habits. You may begin to notice a change in the air quality inside your vehicle, although this change may be subtle and difficult to notice. Typically, you will need to change this filter every 20,000-30,000 miles. For a more accurate estimate, refer to the owner's manual or contact your local mechanic for assistance. If you have allergies, respiratory sensitivities, pollen in your area, or live in a city with an excess of smog, you may need to replace your cabin air filter more frequently. 

What is an engine air filter?

As the name suggests, this air filter is located inside your engine to prevent harmful debris from entering this system. While you may not place much value on this small service, regular engine air filter replacement is affordable and can save you thousands of dollars in engine damage. It also helps improve your vehicle's performance and efficiency so you save on gas. That's why a clean engine filter is checked during the annual emissions test as well as the annual vehicle inspection. 

How to Know When You Need an Engine Filter Replacement

As with the cabin air filter, how often the engine air filter needs to be replaced depends on the type of vehicle you have. Certain environmental and driving factors can also affect how often an engine filter needs to be replaced. For drivers who frequently drive on a dirt road or live in a city with an excess of pollutants, these hazards can quickly destroy an engine filter. You may notice a decrease in fuel efficiency and driving performance as a result of an overdue engine filter change. This service is usually required every 12,000-30,000 miles. If you are still not sure if you need an engine filter replacement, please consult your local auto service technicians. 

Replacing the local car filter

Whether you need an engine filter change, a cabin filter change or any other vehicle maintenance, Chapel Hill Tire experts are here to help! Our trusted mechanics perform a free air filter check every time you change your Chapel Hill tire oil to keep you informed when you need an oil change. Make an appointment at one of our eight Triangle area offices, including Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill and Carrborough, today to get started!

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