Cabin Filter Replacement
Also called AC filter change
The cabin filter cleans the air entering the passenger compartment through the vents. It has nothing to do with engine performance. When it clogs with dust, pollen and leaves, air conditioning airflow drops, the windscreen takes longer to demist, and the vents can smell musty. Local dust levels mean this filter fills quickly. Replacing it will not fix weak cooling caused by low refrigerant, a failing compressor or a blocked condenser, though it is the first thing worth checking.
What the job includes
- Access to the filter housing, usually behind the glovebox
- Removal of the old element and clearing of leaves and debris
- New filter fitted the correct way up, following the airflow arrow
- Check of blower airflow on all fan speeds afterwards
- Advice if the smell points to a dirty evaporator rather than the filter
Signs you need this
- Weak airflow from the vents even on the highest fan setting
- A musty or dusty smell when the fan starts
- The windscreen demists slowly or fogs up repeatedly
- Visible dust blowing from the vents
- Hay fever or dust irritation that is worse inside the car
Not all of these have to be present, and one of them on its own can mean something else entirely. That is what the diagnosis is for.
How we do it
Check blower airflow
We note airflow on each fan speed first, so we can tell afterwards whether the filter was actually the restriction.
Remove the old element
The housing is opened carefully and the old filter is drawn out without shaking debris into the blower.
Clean and fit
Loose leaves and dust are cleared from the housing, then the new filter goes in with its airflow arrow correct.
Retest and advise
Airflow is checked again, and if the smell or weak flow remains we explain what else needs investigating.
How we work
The same on every job, which is why we can write it down.
Diagnosis before quote
We find the fault first. A price given over the phone for a noise nobody has heard is a guess.
The price is agreed first
You approve the work and the cost before a spanner is picked up. Extra work means another call.
Parts you can check
We tell you whether a part is genuine, OEM, aftermarket or used, and what each one costs.
Old parts returned
Ask and we will hand back whatever we replaced. It is the simplest proof that the job was done.
Book cabin filter replacement
Fill this in and a person will call you back to confirm the time and the price. Only your name and one way to reach you are required.
Before you book
Questions we get asked
If your question is not here, ask it. We would rather answer honestly now than have you find out after booking.