Wildfires are a Serious Concern for Vehicles and Passengers
As wildfires season just begun Canadian Auto/Napa Auto Care in St Albert reminds car owners to have their cabin air filters and engine air filters inspected and changed regularly to ensure they are providing maximum protection from smoke and debris.
“Cabin air filters are the first line of defense against contaminants that reduce vehicle cabin air quality for vehicle owners and their passengers. “The Car Care Council recommends that motorists in areas impacted by wildfires and those in surrounding states have their cabin air filters replaced. This simple, yet important, service will help ensure vehicle longevity as well as clean air inside the car.”
The cabin air filter is responsible for cleaning the air entering the passenger compartment. Under normal circumstances, it helps trap pollen, bacteria, dust and exhaust gases that may find their way into a vehicle’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, compromising interior air quality and damaging the system. The filter also prevents leaves, bugs and other debris from entering the HVAC system, which could also cause problems.
Most cabin air filters are accessed through the panel in the HVAC housing, which may be under the hood or placed within the interior of the vehicle. A cabin air filter should not be cleaned and reinstalled. Instead, it should be replaced every 20,000 to 25,000 kilometers or per the owner’s manual. In areas with heavy airborne contaminants, such as soot, smoke and debris from wildfires, it should be changed more frequently.
“It’s important not to overlook the engine air filter. “Engine air filters trap dirt particles, including soot, which can cause costly engine damage. They also play a critical role in keeping smoke and debris from contaminating the airflow sensor on fuel-injected cars. As a rule of thumb, air filters should be inspected at each oil change and replaced annually or when showing other signs of contamination.”
To learn more about vehicle air filters, visit https://www.canadianautoremarketing.ca/vehicle-oil-change-services/.
Breathe better and live healthier with a clean Cabin Air Filter.
What is a cabin air filter? A cabin air filter cleans the air entering your vehicle’s passenger cabin via its HVAC system. Cabin air filters filter out pollutants, mold, mildew, road dust, fumes, and allergens.
Is a cabin air filter different than an air filter? Yes. An air filter filters air going into your vehicle’s engine. A cabin air filter filters air coming into the passenger cabin. A vehicle’s passenger compartments inside air can be up to 6 times dirtier than outside air.
How do you know if my vehicle has a cabin air filter? First check your vehicle’s owner manual. If you are still not sure, ask your professional service person.
So, when should I change my cabin air filter? Most car experts and filter manufactures recommend checking a cabin air filter every 20,000 kms or every 12 months. However, depending on your driving conditions, twice a year may prove necessary for maximum benefit.
Replacing your dirty air filter makes for a better running engine!
- Increased performance: a clean air filter improves Airflow to the engine and increases engine performance.
- Lower emissions: a clogged, dirty air filter can reduce Airflow and choke your engine’s emission control system.
- Longer engine life: the air filter is designed to trap dust, dirt and debris that can damage an engine’s cylinders and pistons.
For every gallon of fuel burned, and engine can use up to 10,000 gallons of air. Changing out that old dirty air filter for a clean new filter makes foe an easy way to save money and engine wear-mile after mile.
With a clean air filter, your engine breathes better and performs better.