Replacing the cabin filter — when and why?

When to replace it

Rule of thumb: every year or every 15,000 km, whichever comes first. If you drive a lot in town, in traffic or on dusty roads, or suffer from hay fever, a yearly replacement is definitely worthwhile. With us the cabin filter is part of the full service.

Signs of a clogged filter

• Musty or “damp” air when you switch on the fan or air-con.
• Less airflow, even on the highest setting.
• Windows that demist slowly or mist up again while driving.
• More pollen or dust inside the car.

Standard or carbon filter

A standard pollen filter stops particles. An activated carbon filter also absorbs odours and part of the exhaust fumes, for example in traffic jams. Some filters add an antibacterial layer. The service calculator shows which version fits your car with the part numbers.

If the air-con still smells musty with a new filter, the smell usually sits on the evaporator. An air-con system clean helps then.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the cabin filter?

Usually behind the glovebox or under the cowl at the windscreen. On some cars part of the dashboard has to come off.

Can I keep driving with a full filter?

Yes, but ventilation gets worse, windows mist up faster and the blower works harder. It is a cheap part with a big effect.

Is the cabin filter part of the small service?

Not with us: the small service is oil and oil filter. The cabin filter is in the full service, or you tick it separately in the calculator.

See which cabin filter fits your car in the service calculator or read more about filter replacement in Tilburg.