
For many of us, we have to drive in areas where the air is less than fresh on a regular basis.
Perhaps you’re used to holding your nose as you pass a water treatment plant on your daily commute. Or, you often end up in bumper-to-bumper traffic breathing in exhaust fumes.
Whatever your circumstances, it isn’t healthy (or the least bit pleasant) to experience polluted air. And, in this day and age, no one should go through this when stuck on the road going from point A to destination B – fresh air is what you want.
We’re here to help you select the best cabin air filter for your vehicle. In this article, you’ll learn how these products work, all the different types available (and which is most suited for your vehicle), as well as what to keep in mind before you buy any one of these – to make sure you’re getting something effective.
Lastly, we’ll go through some of the top cabin air filter brands on the market today to help kick-start your shopping journey.
There’s enough stress on the road as it is— trouble breathing shouldn’t be one of them!
Quick Links to Our Top Recommendations for the Best Cabin Air Filters
- EPAuto CP285 (CF10285) Premium Cabin Air Filter
- FRAM CF10134 Cabin Air Filter
- K&N VF2000 Washable & Reusable Cabin Air Filter
- Spearhead Premium Breathe Easy Cabin Filter
- Bosch 6029C HEPA Cabin Air Filter
- Mann-Filter CUK 2939 Cabin Filter
- Kootek 2 Pack Cabin Air Filter
- ACDelco CF188 GM Original Equipment Cabin Air Filter
- ECOGARD XC25870 Premium Cabin Air Filter
Note: Clicking the above links will take you to further information, current prices and customer reviews on Amazon.
Contents (Jump to Topic)
- 1 What Is a Cabin Air Filter and How Does It Work?
- 2 What Are the Benefits of Cabin Air Filters?
- 3 What Are the Signs My Cabin Air Filter is Failing?
- 4 The Different Types of Cabin Air Filters
- 5 What Is the Best Type of Cabin Air Filter for My Vehicle?
- 6 How to Choose the Right Cabin Air Filter for Your Vehicle
- 7 The Best Cabin Air Filter Reviews – a Detailed Look at Our Top Recommendations
- 7.1 EPAuto Interior Cabin Air Filter
- 7.2 FRAM Cabin Air Filter
- 7.3 K&N Washable And Reusable Cabin Air Filter
- 7.4 Spearhead Breathe Easy Cabin Air Filter
- 7.5 Bosch Premium Cabin Air Filter
- 7.6 MANN Filter Cabin Air Filter
- 7.7 Kootek 2-Pack Cabin Air Filter
- 7.8 ACDelco Original Equipment Cabin Air Filter
- 7.9 ECOGARD Premium Cabin Air Filter
- 8 Conclusion
What Is a Cabin Air Filter and How Does It Work?
A cabin air filter is really one of those little things in your car that you don’t think about often … Until they stop working and you begin to suffer the consequences, that is.
As for what it does, the name says it all, really.
These units work on filtering air from the outside world before it enters your vehicle, and are located behind the heating and air-conditioning vents.
The system as a whole is commonly referred to by the moniker HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning).
The placement (usually behind the glove compartment of your vehicle) prevents contaminants from entering the cabin of your vehicle.
With a good cabin filter in place, the driver and other passengers won’t have to inhale anything that smells nasty or is harmful to their health. This can range from mild pollutants such as pollen and dust, to nasty stuff like exhaust fumes.
They can also inhibit small, solid debris from entering your cabin, such as certain insects that may get blown under the hood when you’re driving fast.
These products typically resemble smaller versions of the filters you may use in your home. They come in various sizes to fit different vehicle makes and models, so there’s something for everybody out there.
The filtration material that a cabin air filter uses will vary depending on its type. The same is true of the effectiveness and durability of the product. Some models are reusable, whereas others are single-use and must be disposed of when they’re worn out.
Watch this brief animated video to see how this filtration process exactly works:
What Are the Benefits of Cabin Air Filters?
Cabin air filters might not seem like the most advanced car parts out there – and they’re certainly not – but there are more advantages that come with these filtration devices than you may imagine.
Sure, there’s the simple (yet very important) basics such as breathing cleaner air, but some of the other benefits involved might surprise you.
Boost Engine Performance
Yup, you read that correctly. A clean, properly functioning unit can improve the way your engine performs.
Remember that almost everything in your car is interconnected, and the engine is the source of power for nearly every feature in your vehicle.
If your filter is filthy, it won’t be easy for air to pass through it.
When you’re blasting the air conditioning or heating at high settings, it’s even more of a struggle. Your engine then has to work harder to compensate for the difficulty of pushing air through the dirty material.
This can have a surprising impact on the overall performance of your engine over time.
Improve Fuel Economy
When your engine has to work overtime, it’ll burn more fuel.
Studies have shown that a clean filtration can improve fuel economy. This applies more to older cars with carbureted motors.
Stop Allergens and Harmful Pollution
Traffic jams can significantly reduce air quality.
Unfortunately, traffic congestion in the United States and other countries has increased over the past two decades. It’s not a problem you can easily avoid if you have to commute to and from work every day – at least not all the time.
Dust, pollen, and bacteria can travel into your ventilation system. You don’t want any of these compounds reaching you, especially if you’re sensitive or have allergies.
Those of you who suffer from asthma may deal with worsening symptoms, and the allergic among you will spend your drives coughing and sneezing.
Even if you have a healthy respiratory system, you’ll want to do your best to keep it that way. Inhaling pollutants can heighten your risk of inflammation and the risk of developing asthma.
Children, the elderly, and pets are particularly vulnerable.
Clear Out Residual Odors
A musty smell in your cabin could be caused by an old unit.
The dirtier it gets, the more likely it will collect foul smells and blow them back into your cabin. A functional unit can refresh your vehicle and eliminate unpleasant scents.
Keep Your Cabin Clean
These products serve as a solid barrier against various things you don’t want anywhere near your cabin.
This includes insects (alive or dead), leaves, and anything else the wind might blow under the hood.
Get Better Air Flow
A grimy unit isn’t conducive to good air flow coming through the ventilation.
This is something you really need to consider if you live in a region prone to temperature extremes. In these cases, your A/C and heating won’t run as powerfully as they should.
In turn, this results in a sweltering or freezing drive rather than a comfortable one.
Enjoy the Silence
Horns honking, other people’s music blaring, you name it – there’s no doubt about it, the road can be a noisy place.
Worn out filtration units can result in irritating sounds making their way inside the cabin via your vents.
What Are the Signs My Cabin Air Filter is Failing?
You should be aware of the warning signs that a your car’s cabin air filter needs a replacement.
Now that you’re familiar with all the benefits these units have to offer both you and your vehicle, you’ll want to stay on top of this.
Consult Your Owner’s Manual
Your vehicle’s owner manual is the first place you should check to get an idea of how often you should be replacing your cabin air filters.
You already know when to change your oil or the lifespan of your tires (if you don’t, you should really get to know this stuff) – and it’s the same when you’re trying to figure out how often to change your cabin air filter.
With that being said, you should still take into account other variables such as pollution levels where you live. For instance, frequent dust storms will mean the unit gets dirtier faster, and you’ll need to perform maintenance more often.
Discoloration
Most of these products are white when they’re brand new.
If you can access them without much trouble for a quick inspection, do so every once in a while. Visible discoloration or dirt combined with other symptoms on this list might mean they’re worn out.
Odors
If you’re still smelling everything from the outside but you have all the windows closed, your filter is likely past its best-by date and it may very well be time for a new one.
A mildew-like odor may also indicate that the material is starting to get moldy and rot. Don’t ignore this, as you don’t want to inhale potentially dangerous bacteria!
Poor or Noisy Air Flow
Before assuming that you have serious issues with your HVAC system, if the air just isn’t flowing as it should, check your filtration unit first.
Don’t forget that a sufficient coating of grime is enough to hinder normal ventilation.
Decreased Engine Performance
Admittedly, there are a lot of factors that can influence engine performance, and you might be dealing with something that needs to be taken care of by a professional.
Still, why not start by checking for something cheap and simple first?
Lower Gas Mileage
If your gas mileage is decreasing and you have an older car with a carburetor, it’s time for a visual inspection.
Poor gas mileage may be a sign of a clogged unit.
The Different Types of Cabin Air Filters
These products fall under two broad categories, and the exact materials used, scents they’re available in, and sizes you can choose from will depend on the brand.
You’ll likely come across the abbreviation “HEPA” while you’re shopping for a cabin air filter. This stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Air.
HEPA units are able to capture almost all particles with a diameter of 0.03 microns or above. That’s an impressive rating considering microns are the measurement for one-millionth of a meter!
Dust (Particle)
These types block most of the standard respiratory menaces from entering your car.
They’re built to inhibit large and small particles alike, so this covers pollen, dust from tires, soot, mold spores, and similar contaminants.
Dust and Odor (Activated Carbon)
Products that contain activated carbon work against odor as well as pollutants. They’re also able to absorb harmful gases such as ozone and carbon monoxide.
Some of these products are even treated with anti-bacterial substances, which strives to lower the chance of mold or other bacteria thriving on older, moist units.
What Is the Best Type of Cabin Air Filter for My Vehicle?
The answer will vary based on individual preferences and needs.
The environmentally conscious among you may want a unit that can be washed and re-used.
For others, certain pollutants may pose more of a problem than others. You might rarely drive through crowded city centers, but often pass through pollen-heavy areas in the spring.
If this is the case, a dust (particle) brand may be enough to protect you. If you’re often exposed to smog and severe pollutants such as carbon monoxide, then activated carbon is a preferable choice.
A general rule of thumb to follow is: the smaller the micron rating, the better the filtration result. Higher micron ratings mean smaller particles might be able to filter through.
How to Choose the Right Cabin Air Filter for Your Vehicle
Now that you have all the facts, you’re almost ready to make a purchase. Before you do that, though, there are a few features you need to know about and look for in any of these products.
You’ll want to guarantee that the brand you pick suits your needs, as well as those of your vehicle.
The following is a list of the top considerations you should make before buying any cabin air filter for your car:
Compatibility
Check the specifications of the unit you’re considering before you buy it. First and foremost, you have to be sure that it can fit into your car.
Are you buying a replacement cabin air filter for the very first time? If so, check your owner’s manual to find out the appropriate dimensions you can work with.
Type
Consider the environment you travel through on your daily drives. What sorts of pollutants and airborne contaminants are circulating around?
Remember that activated carbon works on gases, too – just in case this is a concern for you.
Effectiveness
Review the micron rating of any cabin air filter before you buy it, since this tells you what size particles it can block.
If it doesn’t have a rating, be sure to look at other features to try to get an idea.
Does the material look thick and solid with lots of pleats? Are there any additional ingredients (such as baking soda) that will help with odors in your car? All of these (and more) are questions worth asking.
Durability
How long is it going to last for? Does the estimated lifespan cover mild threats or extreme situations like dust storms or daily, lengthy traffic jams?
You need to factor in conditions that are specific to your travels and region. For instance, is humidity an issue where you live? If so, you may want material that’s been treated to resist mold and bacteria growth.
Reusable or Single-Use?
Can you get more than one use out of the unit?
Certain brands are made for eco-friendly users, while others have to be tossed out after they absorb enough dirt.
If you do select a reusable model, there’s a chance that it may not work as well after several washes when compared to how it used to perform back when it was brand new.
Ease of Installation
This criterion is for users who are handy with their vehicles.
A flimsy unit can tear during the installation process. If it’s wholly inflexible, you may have trouble getting it in.
For those of you who aren’t particularly knowledgeable about (or comfortable with) car maintenance work, you’ll want to find a cabin air filter that’s fairly easy and straightforward to install and remove whenever necessary.
The Best Cabin Air Filter Reviews – a Detailed Look at Our Top Recommendations
Now that you have all the information you need to make an informed decision, let’s get into our detailed reviews of our top recommended cabin air filter brands available on the market today.
There’s no reason you can’t find and choose one that’s right for you!
EPAuto Interior Cabin Air Filter
This heavy-duty unit will keep your cabin free of a wide range of pollutants.
The material is infused with activated carbon and baking soda. The former will filter out the nasty compounds, and the latter works against unpleasant odors.
As an carbon activated air filter, it’s effective against dust as well as gas-based contaminants. This is ideal for those of you who want to shield yourselves against exhaust smog and similar threats. Asthma sufferers who live in dusty or pollen-rich areas should notice an improvement as well.
Straight out of the box, you’ll notice that it has a fresh, clean scent. It can eradicate smells of all sorts that are blown into your vehicle, and does a good job at it.
The material is thick and with numerous pleats. Drivers who are regularly exposed to polluted air can take visible assurance that it’s strong enough to block contaminants.
For compatible vehicles, this product by EPAuto is OEM quality – without the hefty price tag.
It’s also appropriate for users who have little experience with replacements, and there are detailed instructions on the box itself to help you get the job done. As long as you make sure you stick to the directions, installation should be straightforward.
Another advantage is durability. It will last you for one year or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Manufacturer’s Specifications and Feature List
- Activated carbon.
- Includes baking soda.
- Available as a pack of one, two, three, or 40.
- Recommended air filter replacement: every 12,000 miles or 12 months.
- Compatible with select models of Toyota, Subaru, Land Rover, Lexus, Pontiac, and Scion.
- Installation instructions on the box.
What We Like
- Easy to install.
- OEM-quality.
- Detailed instructions.
- Thick.
- Pleasant smell out of the box.
- Eliminates most (if not all) outside odors.
- Long-lasting.
What We Don’t Like
- The thick material might sometimes interfere with ventilation.
Summary
If you want an OEM-quality filter that does a good job at eliminating odors, this product may be right for you.
Since it’s a filter with activated carbon, you’ll be safe when it comes to severe pollutants such as smog.
Want to buy one for your vehicle? Find it at the link below.
FRAM Cabin Air Filter
The FRAM unit will attract Honda and Acura owners who want a cleaner smelling car and breathe in clean air. Musty or otherwise unappealing smells don’t have to be a part of your drives.
The activated carbon and Arm & Hammer baking soda eliminate any existing odors. They’ll also work to prevent bad scents from the outdoors seeping into your cabin.
You can also expect improved ventilation after installation. This is great for those of you who like to keep the airflow on high. The material won’t interfere with your HVAC system. and at the same time, it works to filter out an estimated 98 percent of allergens and dust.
You’ll particularly want to try this unit out if you’re sensitive to dust and pollen. The same goes for those of you who are prone to respiratory distress. As a matter of fact, users with allergies have reported relief from symptoms thanks to this product.
An added benefit is the installation guidelines, as you’ll get an explicit manual with your purchase that details every step.
There are also QR codes you can scan with your phone that’ll get you to installation videos. The tech-savvy among you will definitely appreciate this!
Manufacturer’s Specifications and Feature List
- Activated carbon.
- One per package.
- Includes Arm & Hammer baking soda.
- Compatible with select models of Honda and Acura.
- Recommended replacement: As specified by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
- Installation guidelines and relevant QR codes included.
What We Like
- Explicit instructions.
- Gets rid of existing odors.
- Simple to install.
- Filters out most large-particle allergens and dust.
- Improves ventilation.
- Quality product with Arm & Hammer.
What We Don’t Like
- Some reports of trouble with ill-fitting products.
- You might notice fewer pleats than on OEM models.
Summary
This product is ideal for user keen on enjoying breathable air without having to compensate on air flow through the ventilation system. It’s also efficient at filtering allergen-provoking, large-particle pollutants.
You can learn more about it by clicking the following link.
K&N Washable And Reusable Cabin Air Filter
K&N’s filter is an enticing choice for eco-friendly drivers.
This unit is an excellent reusable option, in case you don’t want to use something disposable. Whenever it gets too dirty, you can simply remove it, wash it as needed, and reinstall it again.
As you may expect, the materials are made to last. This isn’t something you’ll find in all reusable cabin air filters out there, with some of them losing durability after only a few washes.
The frame is made of polyurethane, a type of rubber that’s flexible rather than brittle. It’s not as likely to crack with repeated handling as well, which is another plus. This is important since reusable products should last for more than just a few washes.
You’ll receive instructions that clearly lay out how you need to clean it correctly. K&N sells a refresher kit, cleaning product, and oil for the purpose. Still, if you think about what you’re saving on buying a new unit every so often, this might be worth it.
The material is synthetic and non-woven. It shouldn’t wear thin or start to lose its filtration ability after multiple washes. It’s also electrostatically charged to enable it to attract particles of dust, pollen, and other solid debris. This makes it like a magnet for potential allergens, which is handy if you’re sensitive to these things.
Although it doesn’t contain baking soda, it’s adept at capturing odors. Smells from outdoors or a musty residue in your cabin should disappear soon after installation.
It’s built to the same specifications as the OEM unit. As long as your Toyota or Subaru is among the compatible models, it should fit as snugly as the original.
Manufacturer’s Specifications and Feature List
- Dust (particle).
- One per package.
- Non-woven synthetic material.
- Polyurethane frame.
- Reusable.
- Electrostatically charged.
- Compatible with select models of Toyota and Subaru.
What We Like
- Durable construction.
- Eco-friendly.
- Stays effective long-term.
- Simple to wash and re-install.
- Captures odors as well as solid particles.
- Continues to perform consistently even after multiple washes.
What We Don’t Like
- You might notice a plastic smell from the rubber frame that takes a bit of time to go away.
- It’s recommended you purchase the manufacturer’s own cleaning products – but this isn’t an absolute must.
Summary
Environmentally conscious drivers will appreciate this reusable cabin air filter. It’s odor-eating and allergen-blocking to ensure the air in your cabin stays breathable.
You can learn more about this product’s price and other information by following this link.
Spearhead Breathe Easy Cabin Air Filter
This unit by Spearhead lives up to the name, and it should have you breathing easy in no time.
It’s built to filter out nearly every pollutant the road can throw at your vehicle. From allergens and pollens to brake dust and exhaust fumes, it works against mild to severe threats equally well.
You’ll be able to feel the difference once you take it out of the box. It has a hefty weight, and the material is thick and sturdy.
There are three filtration layers to tackle separate pollutants. An electrostatic charged dust layer collects solid particles such as pollen and dust. Next, an antimicrobial layer will block allergens, bacteria, and fungi. Finally, there’s an absorption layer to soak up fumes and other noxious gases such smog.
It can capture ultra-fine particles that are as small as 0.5 microns. If you’re driving through areas with serious air pollution, this unit will offer you full protection.
You also won’t have to worry about impacting airflow from your HVAC system. The honeycomb build of the material allows your vents to keep working as they should.
Last but not least, an additional advantage is a long lifespan. This unit should last you for up to 15,000 miles, which is three thousand more than the standard 12,000-mile rating.
Manufacturer’s Specifications and Feature List
- Activated charcoal (carbon).
- Recommended replacement: every 15,000 miles.
- Installation manual included.
- Three-stage filtration.
- Check vehicle compatibility.
What We Like
- Comprehensive protection.
- Weave material blocks ultrafine particles.
- Sturdy feel.
- Helpful guidelines.
- Eradicates odors.
- Clearly marked airflow arrow.
- Longer lasting than other products.
- Won’t restrict ventilation.
What We Don’t Like
- There might be a few issues with hearing noises from the HVAC system after installation.
Summary
Those of you who are exposed to extreme air pollution will want to give this unit a serious consideration.
It protects your cabin from a wide range of pollutants, including ultrafine particles. Plus, it lasts for up to three thousand miles longer than most other products on the market.
If you like what you see, you can buy one for your car by clicking here.
Bosch Premium Cabin Air Filter
This unit contains HEPA (High Energy Efficiency Particulate Air) material.
As you already know by now, this traps harmful particles as small as 0.03 microns in size. It’s also free of the chemical odor neutralizers that lots of other products have nowadays.
You may be interested in this option if you suffer from severe asthma, allergies, or other respiratory issues.
It has a three-layer design to optimize filtration and stability. There is a hard support layer (including structural ribs) to protect the inner materials. The second layer is the HEPA filter, which will stop microscopic contaminants entering your cabin. The last part is cotton that has been electrostatically charged.
The triple-security layer gives you additional insurance against pollutants. If anything does manage to get past the first two layers, it will get drawn to and stuck to the last.
Again, this is crucial if you’re prone to serious allergies. Repeatedly sneezing or coughing while driving can be dangerous – your focus should be on the road only, nothing else!
It’s durable too, and will keep doing its job well as it ages, working consistently to keep the air inside your car clean – from installation to removal.
You shouldn’t notice an abrupt decline in the filtration ability after a few months. These units are made to last for one year, barring exposure to extreme circumstances such as near-daily dust storms.
Manufacturer’s Specifications and Feature List
- Dust (particle).
- One per package.
- Includes HEPA material.
- Three-layer protection.
- Recommended replacement: once a year.
- Compatible with select models of Honda, Acura, and Toyota.
- Installation instructions included.
- Free of chemical neutralizers.
What We Like
- Quality manufacturer.
- HEPA material.
- Lots of pleats.
- Consistent performance throughout the lifespan.
- Multi-layered filtration.
- No chemicals to neutralize odors.
What We Don’t Like
- In certain cases, you might notice a bit reduced air flow.
- Isn’t the best at eliminating strong odors such as combustion smoke.
Summary
Sensitive users with respiratory illnesses will want to have a HEPA unit in their vehicles. An added perk is that it’s free of chemical odor neutralizers that lots of other similar products on the market nowadays use – ones that could easily irritate your sinuses.
Take a look at this three-layered filter here.
MANN Filter Cabin Air Filter
Mann Filter’s activated carbon unit is for the Volkswagen and Audio owners out there.
This German manufacturer produces a range of filters for select makes and models of European vehicles. This means that you’re unlikely to have trouble with an ill-fitting or flimsily built component – you’ll get the same standard of quality as with the original part.
The primary filtration media is activated carbon. It’ll absorb noxious gases as well as nasty odors. The unit also includes a non-woven layer to capture dust, pollen, and other large-particle pollutants. All together, these components work to provide full protection against smells and contaminants from outdoors.
The charcoal should also help to refresh your cabin. If you’ve noticed a musty smell, this unit should neutralize it. An instruction manual comes in the box to guide you through installation.
Best of all, the unit shouldn’t hinder airflow from your vents. It’s frustrating to have to choose between a cleaner cabin and good air circulation – but with this option, the material has a low-flow resistance, so you can enjoy both.
Manufacturer’s Specifications and Feature List
- Activated charcoal (carbon).
- One per package.
- Also available as a pack of two or three.
- Recommended replacement: Every 9,320 miles (15,000 kilometers) or once a year.
- Compatible with select models of Audi and Volkswagen.
- Includes instruction manual.
What We Like
- Carbon layer absorbs most gases.
- OEM-quality.
- Neutralizes bad smells.
- Doesn’t reduce airflow.
- Reputable manufacturer.
- Exact fit.
What We Don’t Like
- You have to be extra careful with getting the right size, because it’s easier than other options to git something that doesn’t fit.
Summary
Audi and Volkswagen owners who want OEM-quality without a ridiculously high price tag should give this unit a consideration.
With this air filter, your cabin will be shielded against the majority of gas and particle-based contaminants.
Want to buy one (or more for your vehicle)? Click this link.
Kootek 2-Pack Cabin Air Filter
These filters by Kootek are optimal for users who especially want to combat bad odors.
This is helpful for those of you who have a habit of eating in your car and forgetting a few stuff here and there (I, for one, am guilty as charged) – or driving around with pets.
At the same time, it still does a good job at eliminating smells from outdoors. Drivers who pass by the same less-than-pleasant areas (landfills, intensive farms) will still appreciate this product.
It’s effective thanks to the dual-layered activated carbon material with baking soda. The majority of units come with over 20 pleats, meaning a greater surface area to capture pollutants. It works against dust and other particles ranging from five to 100 microns in size.
One of the first things you’ll notice when you handle and install it is the sturdy build. In other words, you won’t have to worry about it falling apart during installation.
Unlike other products on the market, you’ll receive two units per package. Each will keep your cabin air breathable for up to one year or 12,000 miles – whichever comes first.
Manufacturer’s Specifications and Feature List
- Two per package.
- Activated carbon.
- Includes baking soda.
- Recommended replacement: every 12,000 miles or once a year.
- Compatible with select models of Toyota, Lexus, Subaru, and Scion.
What We Like
- Dual charcoal layers.
- Absorbs most external odors.
- Combats internal cabin smells.
- Works against a range of pollutants.
- Two-pack.
- Sturdy feel.
- Over 20 pleats per unit.
What We Don’t Like
- Some complaints of restricted air flow at times.
Summary
The two layers of activated carbon will fight odors from inside your vehicle and block them from outside.
You’ll definitely want to give these filters a try if your end goal is to freshen up the cabin of your car.
Click the link below to get more information about this product, or buy a box.
ACDelco Original Equipment Cabin Air Filter
This dust filter is made by ACDelco, meaning you can expect quality. This company builds OEM parts that are used in over two million General Motors vehicles per year.
Owners of GM cars who aren’t willing to shell out for the OEM part may want to consider this product.
You’re likely to get an exact fit, as long as your vehicle is compatible. No one wants to install an aftermarket part that is slightly too big or too small, right? That’s a nightmare to deal with. With filters, a poor fit means reduced efficacy.
This product is designed for optimal filtration. To start with, it has three distinct layers targeted at different types of pollutants. One of the outermost layers will block large-particle contaminants, the other outer layer is for strength and structure, and the innermost layer will absorb smaller particles such as road dust and pollen.
Another benefit is that mold and bacteria shouldn’t grow on it. This means you won’t have to wait for that trademark “old filter” musty smell to appear after a while. In usual circumstances, it should perform consistently until the end of its lifespan.
The material is non-woven, meaning it may enhance airflow. If previous filters have had you cranking up the heat or A/C, you might want to give this model a try.
Users living in regions where a functional HVAC system is essential to comfort will definitely appreciate this as well.
Manufacturer’s Specifications and Feature List
- Dust (particle).
- One per package.
- Three-layered filtration.
- Recommended replacement: as specified by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
- Check vehicle compatibility.
What We Like
- Stops bacteria and mold growth.
- Layered for effectiveness.
- Well-known manufacturer.
- OEM fit and quality.
- May help improve air flow.
- Good HVAC performance.
What We Don’t Like
- Won’t do a good job at absorbing toxic gases.
Summary
Users who require strong airflow from their HVAC systems may be interested in purchasing this product. It’s also appropriate for those of you looking for OEM-quality and dimensions without the OEM price tag.
Eager to get one for your car? You can check it out here.
ECOGARD Premium Cabin Air Filter
The ECOGARD filter is made with electrostatically charged material which enables it to draw and capture large-particle contaminants ranging from thick dust to pollen.
It’s appropriate for users who are exposed to non-gaseous pollutants on a regular basis. For those exposed to gaseous ones, though, we wouldn’t really recommend this.
It has numerous pleats and is thick and sturdy to the touch. Each unit is rated to last for up to 15,000 miles, longer than the average of 12,000 miles.
In addition to that, it’s designed to replace OEM parts for select models of vehicle. This means you’ll get an exact fit for the unit you’re replacing.
A great feature is that it also does a good job at eliminating odors. Any residual smells leftover from your old filter, such cigarette smoke smells in your car, should disappear shortly after installation.
There are detailed instructions that come with your purchase to help you with the installation. Those of you who are less experienced with work like this should have no trouble doing this yourself.
Manufacturer’s Specifications and Feature List
- Dust (particle).
- One per package.
- Electrostatically charged material.
- Compatible with select models of Dodge, Chrysler, Infiniti, and Volkswagen.
- Recommended replacement: every 15,000 miles.
- Instruction manual included.
What We Like
- Clear instructions.
- Long-lasting.
- Eradicates bad smells.
- OEM-fit.
- Thick.
- Works against large-particle contaminants.
- Lots of pleats.
- Won’t impede airflow.
What We Don’t Like
- Won’t filter out gas-based pollutants.
Summary
This no-frills filter is effective against a range of large-particle pollutants. It’s a good choice if you’re rarely exposed to gaseous pollutants like smog and exhaust fumes – but if you come across stuff like this even on an infrequent basis, you’re better off staying ready with something else.
You can buy one for yourself by clicking the link below.
Conclusion
Let’s face it: we can’t really control the quality of the air we breathe when we’re outdoors. Fortunately though, in this day and age, there’s a whole lot we can do to stay in control of this when we’re inside our vehicles.
Many of us spend at least an hour or more inside our cars per day. Those who lead more hectic lives might even spend several hours only on commuting by car.
In any case, buying a quality cabin air filter is a great way to ensure the air you breathe when driving stays clean, healthy and ensures a fresh breeze for both you and your passengers.
We hope we managed to help you find the best cabin air filter to suit your needs from the products we’ve talked about!
If you have any questions about anything related to cabin air filters, or feedback you’d like to share with us or for other drivers to benefit from, we’d love to hear from you. Drop us a comment below and we’ll continue the conversation over there!
Until then – and since you’re already here trying to sort out your car’s cabin air filter – we also think you’ll love our guides about the best car air purifiers and the best car air fresheners. So, be sure to give those a read as well!