With so many aspects of your car to think about, the cabin filter is often forgotten. But, when an expert BMW service mechanic lets you know that you’re in need of a cabin filter change, it’s good to know exactly what this piece of your car does.
Here’s what you need to know about cabin air filters for BMWs so you’re prepared for your next service appointment.
Benefits of a BMW Cabin Filter
In short, the clean air that you breathe in while driving is largely a result of your cabin air filter. Much like your engine has a filter so the air intake is kept clear of dust and debris, the same goes for your cabin air filter, keeping the air inside your cabin clean and free of dust.
Got allergies? The cabin air filter takes care of that too (to a degree, of course). Overall, the cabin air filter keeps dust, dirt, pollen, bacteria, bugs, leaves, exhaust gases and other debris from entering the HVAC system of your car.
Besides offering better HVAC performance and a more comfortable driving experience for everyone in the vehicle, the cabin air filter also assists in ensuring that your engine, fuel line and radiator are kept free from contaminants.
If Cabin Air Filters Aren’t Changed
Forgot to replace your cabin air filter about 5,000 miles ago? Figured it can wait? Well, there are a few reasons why it is important that your BMW’s cabin air filter is changed on a regular basis.
As mentioned above, the cabin air filter works to keep your BMW engine, fuel line, and radiator free from contaminants. So, as a result, if your cabin air filter is left unattended for too long, it’s not just the cabin comfort and HVAC performance that suffers – it’s your BMW’s engine.
But of course, beyond your engine, your air conditioner system will also begin to suffer if the cabin filter is left unattended and clogged for too long. Think about increased allergens, decreased HVAC performance and inability to properly defog windows.
Biggest Takeaway: This relatively inexpensive fix for your BMW is worth it for both your comfort and the proper functioning of your BMW. Ask your advisor at your next auto service if it is recommended to replace your cabin air filter at that time.
Signs You Need a New Cabin Filter
Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, the manufacturer recommends a cabin air filter to be replaced every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, with some exceptions allowing you to drive further. Another rule of thumb that experts recommend is to aim to replace your cabin air filter at least once a year.
However, going by time passed or the number of miles on your BMW isn’t enough. When it comes to your A/C, cabin filter and overall HVAC system, your driving habits and road conditions come into play as well. If you are under the recommended mileage for your specific BMW model but you notice some or all of these symptoms, take your vehicle in for a cabin air filter replacement.
Cabin Air Filter Signs
Reduced airflow through your climate control system, which can be most noticeable when you turn up the fan to high and notice very little change or an increase in noise.
- Frequent bad or musty odors when using your HVAC system in your vehicle, especially the A/C.
- An unusual whistling sound coming from your cabin air intake area
- Reduced heating and cooling abilities from your HVAC system.
Keep in mind that if you drive in a dry climate – an extreme example would be the desert, but country roads are more common – you will likely need to replace your BMW cabin air filter more regularly than some others. Similarly, driving frequently through heavily polluted areas can affect the longevity of your cabin air filter and how often a cabin air filter change is needed for your BMW.
Keep Your BMW in Top Shape!
Get the most out of your BMW with regular servicing, including small replacements like cabin air filters and oil changes, to brake pad replacements and engine flushes. Our team at AutoScope is dedicated to delivering an exceptional level of service for Porsche, Mercedes, BMW, MINI Cooper, Bentley, Jaguar, Audi, Land Rover, Rolls-Royce vehicle owners.
If you’re in the Dallas, Plano, Frisco, Flower Mound, and Irving areas, come on in! Schedule your BMW service appointment at AutoScope today! Contact us online here.