What does a pollen filter do in your car?
We all love a sunny drive on a summer’s day, but if you suffer from seasonal allergies like hay fever, the warmer months can make it harder to enjoy being behind the wheel.
Fortunately, most modern cars have a built-in way to help with seasonal allergies – the pollen filter, also known as a cabin air filter. This filter cleans the air entering your car and traps pollen, dust, and pollution before they reach the cabin, helping you to breathe more comfortably when driving.
What is a pollen filter?
A pollen filter (cabin air filter) is a component in your car’s ventilation and air-conditioning system that filters the outside air before it enters your cabin.
As air is drawn into the car through the heating or air-conditioning system, it passes through this filter. The filter then traps airborne contaminants such as:
- Pollen.
- Dust.
- Dirt and debris.
- Pollution particles.
This helps to improve the air quality in your cabin and reduce the allergens that can trigger hay fever symptoms like sneezing or itchy eyes.
What are pollen filters made from?
Your cabin filter is usually made from a pleated paper, multi-fibre material, or electrostatic paper filter crafted to catch tiny airborne particles. Depending on your vehicle, you can likely locate the filter behind your glove box, under the dashboard, or ear the windscreen intake.
Premium cabin filter models are typically constructed using carbon filters, which also stops unpleasant smells and fungus from infiltrating your ride.
How often should you change a pollen filter?
Like any filter, your pollen filter will get gradually clogged up as it traps dirt and airborne particles. Over time, this build up can restrict airflow and reduce how effectively the filter cleans the air entering the car.
Most manufacturers recommend replacing your pollen filter:
- Every 12 months, or
- Every 12,000-15,000 miles
Whichever comes first!
However, you may need to replace your cabin filter more frequently than that if:
- You live or regularly drive in high-pollution areas or cities.
- You car is frequently parked underneath trees.
- You’re particularly sensitive to hay fever or allergies.
Changing your cabin filter often helps to maintain good airflow and cleaner air inside your vehicle.
Signs your cabin air filter needs replacing
You may need a new pollen filter if you notice:
- It’s been 12 months or 12,000-15,000 miles since the last replacement.
- There’s a musty smell inside the car.
- Windows mist up more easily.
- The airflow from the vents feels weaker than usual.
Many drivers opt to replace their filter just before the return of spring, so that their car is prepared to support them for the peak pollen season.
Can you replace a pollen filter yourself?
Replacing your pollen filter tends to be a straightforward job that many drivers can do at home. In many vehicles, the filter is accessible via:
- The glove box.
- A small panel in the dashboard.
If it is time for a replacement pollen filter, it’s thankfully quite a simple process you can do yourself at home. We’ve got a full step-by-step guide on how to change your cabin filter to help you.
If you prefer to leave it to the experts, cabin filter changes are included as part of our Major Service, alongside routine maintenance of your:
- Oil filter.
- Air filter.
- Engine oil.
- Brake fluid – and much more!
