How Does an Air Cabin Filter Work?

Different Types

There are many different types of car cabin air filters. To begin with, many car manufacturers use very specific types of cabin air filters in their vehicles. Luckily, several models of cabin air filter fit the majority of modern production vehicles. There are normal cabin air filters and carbon air filters.

Normal Air Filters

Normal cabin air filters are made of an extremely thin paper material. The paper material is layered on top of itself to create a filter that allows air to flow through but traps solids like dust and dirt. As outside air is pumped into the vehicle's climate control system, that air first passes through the cabin air filter. Normal filters remove solid particles from the air, along with some noxious gases. Most filters must be replaced every 12,000 to 15,000 miles to retain optimal performance.

Carbon Cabin Air Filters

Carbon cabin air filters work very similarly to normal cabin air filters. The only major difference is that, along with the thin layers of paper in the filter, they also contain a thin layer of activated charcoal (carbon) somewhere in filter. Due to its extremely porous nature, activated charcoal has the ability to absorb offensive odors. This is why it is used in many filtration systems for water and air, along with applications such as shoe inserts. In a cabin air filter, the activated charcoal absorbs any offensive odors, making the air that is introduced into the vehicle more pleasant.

Resources

• How to Change Your Cabin Air Filter, from eHow