Engine Air Filter vs. Cabin Air Filter

Engine air filters and cabin air filters are both essential components, and they even perform similar functions, but there are important differences between the two. Those comparing engine air filters vs. cabin air filters should know that the engine air filter removes dust and debris from the air that enters your engine; the cabin air filter keeps dust and pollutants out of your vehicle’s interior! You’ll need to maintain and replace both components on occasion if you want to enjoy the best that your vehicle has to offer.

What Does an Engine Air Filter Do?

All internal combustion engines require constant airflow in order to ignite fuel and move you forward, but if the air that gets taken into your engine is too dirty, your engine will accumulate dirt and grime rapidly. 

All vehicles have an engine air filter, but it will need to be replaced occasionally. Here’s why:

• Reduced Power & Efficiency: The failure to replace your engine air filter could result in reduced airflow to your engine, and that means you won’t be able to access your vehicle’s full power. You might also notice declines in efficiency.
• Long-term Lifespan: Over time, the failure to maintain your engine air filter may reduce the total lifespan of your engine.

Although your owner’s manual may give a recommended service interval—and most drivers change their engine air filters every 12,000 to 15,000 miles—there’s no substitute for careful attention. Whenever you schedule service at Jaguar Monmouth, we’ll inspect your engine air filter to determine if it’s time for replacement. 

What Does a Cabin Air Filter Do?

Although cabin air filters and engine air filters use a similar design and construction, cabin air filters play a different role. After all, you and your passengers need clean air at least as much as your engine does! So, your cabin air filter cleans the air that enters your vehicle, removing dust, pollen, pollutants, and much more, before these particles can reach your cabin or your lungs.

Since you know the importance of breathing clean air, the importance of replacing a dirty cabin air filter should be more or less self-explanatory. However, if you’re not sure how often to replace your cabin air filter, you’ll want to be on the lookout for the following signs and symptoms:

1. Poor airflow when using your climate control systems
2. Increasing amounts of dust on interior surfaces
3. Your cabin smells musty, or you notice that odors stick around for a long time

We recommend that you change your cabin air filter before allergy season comes to Rumson and Colts Neck, but most drivers change their cabin air filters roughly once per year. Once more, we’ll take a look whenever you schedule service.

Don’t Leave Clean Air Up to Chance!

Jaguar Monmouth is your automotive service partner, and we’d be happy to help you maintain your vehicle’s air quality. Give us a call at (877) 673-6162 to compare cabin air filters vs. air filters for your engine on pricing or find out how long replacement service will take. Just make sure to check out our current service specials before you drive in from Eatontown or Red Bank!