Cabin Air Filters

How clean is the air you breathe behind the wheel? The cabin air filter cleans the air from the ventilation system before it reaches the cabin, trapping dust, pollen and other particles. We stock filters for cars, SUVs and pickups from K&N Engineering and aFe.

Particle filter or activated carbon filter

The cabin air filter is typically located in the ventilation air intake, often behind the glovebox or below the windscreen, and filters the air the blower sends into the car. A standard particle filter traps dust, pollen and dirt. An activated carbon filter can also reduce odours and certain gases from traffic, e.g. in queues or tunnels. At aFe you will find, for example, carbon filters in the Carbon Cabin Air Filter series, while K&N Engineering offers, among others, the disposable Advantage Plus filter.

How to choose the right cabin air filter

• Fitment: The filters are made for specific models and model years, e.g. Honda Civic 01-05 or BMW 2, 3 and 4 Series 12-21. Check the part number and dimensions against your car.
• Filter type: Choose a particle filter or activated carbon depending on whether odours and gases from traffic bother you.
• Airflow: A clogged filter can reduce airflow, so the windows demist more slowly.

Replacement usually requires no or only a few tools, but the location depends on the car. How often the filter needs changing depends on your driving and surroundings; lots of dust, pollen or city driving may require more frequent changes. See your car's owner's manual for the recommended interval. You will find more ventilation parts under ducts and accessories for air conditioning and ventilation.

Frequently asked questions

How often should the cabin air filter be replaced?

It depends on the car and your driving. The owner's manual specifies an interval, but if you drive a lot in dusty conditions, in heavy city traffic or during pollen season, the filter can clog faster and should be checked more often.

What is the difference between a carbon filter and a standard cabin air filter?

Both trap particles such as dust and pollen. An activated carbon filter has an extra layer that can reduce odours and certain gases from traffic. The effect depends on the product and on how saturated the carbon is.

What are the signs of a clogged cabin air filter?

Typical signs are weaker airflow from the blower, windows that demist more slowly, or a musty smell at start-up. These can also have other causes in the ventilation system, so check the filter first before troubleshooting further.