As a vehicle owner, knowing when to replace parts of your car is not an exact science. For some issues, you will know it is time to replace them when the vehicle stops moving. But in other instances, you may fail to realize that the part needs replacing until you are faced with a particular occurrence such as stuffy air in your vehicle -Which is one of the symptoms of a bad cabin air filter. This is a clear sign that you need to replace the filter. When this happens, you need to shop for the right cabin filter for your vehicle.
Top 5 Best cabin air filter of 2020
Here are the best cabin air filters in the market currently.
EPAuto CP285 (CF10285) Premium Cabin Air Filter includes Activated Carbon
This carbon cabin air filter is one of the few options that has a universal fit. It is compatible with most Toyota and Lexus models. It can also be used in Subaru Legacy (2010-2019) and Subaru Outback (2010-2019). As well as;
Land Rover:
- Discovery (2017-2019)
- Range Rover (2014-2019)
- Range Rover Sport (2014-2019)
- Range Rover Velar (2018-2019)
Jaguar:
- F-Pace (2017-2019)
- I-Pace (2019)
- XE (2017-2019)
- XF (2016-2018)
Scion:
- iM (2016)
- tC (2011-2016)
- xB (2008-2015)
- xD (2008-2014)
Pontiac:
- Vibe (2009-2010)
The filter helps to clean air for drivers and passengers. It contains soda and carbon to generate fresh breeze air. It also enhances HVAC performance. It is recommended that you replace the filter every 12 months or 12,000 miles. It is also compatible with a wide range of other car makes and models.
Features
- Lifespan: 12,00 miles/ 12 months
- Carbon filter
- Soda air filtration
Pros
- Universal fit
- Easy to install
- Improves HVAC performance
Cons
- It has an airflow resistance
FRAM Fresh Breeze Cabin Air Filter
The FRAM air filter promises to filter up to 98% of dust, pollen, and other contaminants. The filter compound is made up of Arm and Hammer baking soda combined with carbon. The filter cleans the outside air flowing through the ventilation system. This helps to keep damaging particles from entering the engine and causing increased engine wear.
The filter also provides more airflow for improved performance and helps prevent musty odors from forming inside the vehicle. It also removes odors flowing through the vehicle ventilation system. The installation instructions are included in every box, along with QR codes for installation videos.
Features
- Material: carbon fiber
- Item dimensions: 10 x 2 x 10 inches
- Filter compound: baking soda combined with carbon cleans
- Lifespan: 15,000 miles or every year
- Fit type: Vehicle Specific
Pros
- Help remove odors
- Filtration efficiency: 98%*
- Easy to install
Cons
- Not compatible with all Honda models
ACDelco GM Original Equipment CF188 Cabin Air Filter
This filter is equipped with a non-woven material/compound media to capture more particles while increasing airflow. The compound media consists of three layers. The outside layer captures 100% of large airborne particles, the middle layer captures smaller particles, and the final layer provides strength and stability.
The layered construction creates ‘separated’ media to contain dust and pollen particles better, resulting in higher efficiency. The filter is designed, engineered, and tested to rigorous standards and is backed by General Motors. The filter is compatible with Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac models, and other non-GM vehicle brands.
Features
- Non-woven material
- Three filters
- Backed by general motors
- Layered construction
Pros
- Durable
- High-efficiency filtration
- Compatible with gm and non-gm vehicle’s
Cons
- Has a loose fit
K&N Premium Cabin Air Filter
This HEPA cabin air filter increases airflow in the vehicle, improving heating and cooling efficiency. The filter helps to control odors by filtering out contaminants that cause odors. The washable filter is ecofriendly and pocket friendly.
It is also easy to install, and you do not need tools to get the job done. The filter comes with a 10-year/million-mile limited warranty. It is designed for long-lasting performance. The filer is equipped with state-of-the-art filtration technology guaranteed to protect your vehicle’s occupants, interior, and HVAC system from pollutants that can cause unpleasant odors.
It is engineered to be washable, reusable, and durable. This cabin filter is designed to last for the entire lifespan of your vehicle.
Features
- Washable and reusable
- 10-year/million-mile limited warranty
- Long-lasting
- Filters mold, dust, mildew, fungi, germs, and pollution
- Compatible with most vehicles
Pros
- Increased airflow
- Helps control odors
- Easy to install
Cons
- The new rubber smell takes too long to dissipate
TYC 800001P2 Honda Replacement Cabin Air Filter
The TYC Honda cabin air filter is available in two OE-comparable configurations as either Particle filter (single-stage) or Combination filter (with additional carbon layer to remove odor). It eliminates nearly 100% of exhaust pollutants and airborne contaminants.
The filter is easy to install onto most vehicles within 7 minutes. The installation instructions are included with each unit. It provides clean air for you and your passengers.
The manufacturer recommends that you replace the filter every 12,000 miles.
The filter is designed to replace Honda filters # 80292-S5A-003, 80292-S5D-A01, 80292-SCV-A01, and FRAM CF10135.
The filter is designed to have the same or better filtration efficiency as the original equipment filter. Its identical dust load capacity ensures the same amount of particulate-collecting power, while the factory-correct level of pressure drop ensures proper airflow through the vehicle’s cabin.
Features
- OE-comparable
- Carbon filter
- Lifespan: 12,000 miles
Pros
- Nearly 100% efficiency
- Filter out exhaust pollutants and airborne contaminants
- Easy to install
Cons
- Does not fit all Honda models
Is there a difference in-cabin air filters?
Yes. Cabin air filters can have different types of filters composed of either charcoal, activated charcoal, particle filters, or electrostatic filters. Some cabin air filters have more than one filter type for maximum efficiency.
How do you choose the right cabin air filter for your car?
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Filter type
The filter should have an efficient filter that can clean the air, eliminate odors, and remove pathogens. Look for a filter that uses more than one type of filter for maximum efficiency.
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Compatibility
Ensure that the filter you pick can fit into your car and is designed to be used in your vehicle. You can look for replacement options recommended by your car manufacturer.
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Lifespan
Look for a filter that can go the distance. Do not opt for a cheap generic alternative as it may not be able to clean the air efficiently or may end up breaking down in a short time.
Are charcoal cabin filters better?
Yes. Activated charcoal filters are superior to other types of filters for several reasons. They trap dust and debris, absorb fumes and odors, neutralize harmful air contaminants, and eliminate pathogens such as mold mycotoxins. They are also more absorbent for their size, making them more efficient than other air filters.
How do I know if I need a new cabin air filter?
Ideally, you should change your air filter if you have not changed your air filter in over one year.
These are the main signs to look out for to know if your cabin air filter needs to be replaced;
- Reduced airflow due to a clogged filter
- Funky smelling air in your car
- Your car ventilation is letting in filthy or contaminated air
- Dust buildup around in your car
The best cabin air filter should get rid of foul odors and other contaminants in the air. It should improve HVAC performance by increasing airflow into the car. It should also trap pathogens and other particles in the air making the air less allergenic. Thus reducing allergic reactions. Lastly, it should be able to serve you for at least 10,000 miles or one year.
