What's involved
What this repair actually is.
Cars have two air filters: one for the engine and one for the air blowing through your vents. The cabin filter traps pollen, soot, and city dust before it reaches you; the engine filter protects the motor. Doing both together saves a trip and a little labor, and both are typically due on the same schedule.
Symptoms
How you can tell.
- Musty or dusty smell from the vents
- Weak airflow from the A/C or heater
- Allergies acting up in the car
- Sluggish acceleration or worse mileage
- Neither filter has been changed in over a year
If you delay
A clogged cabin filter strains the blower motor and keeps recirculating dirty air; a clogged engine filter costs you power and fuel.
Educational estimate. Real pricing depends on your vehicle, the inspection, parts availability, taxes, and shop rates. Use this as a guide while you shop quotes.
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