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More than 80 percent of new domestic and import vehicles sold in the U.S.today come equipped with cabin air filtration systems or a slot where one canbe installed.
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"Many people don't even know they have a cabin air filter in their vehicleand most others aren't aware of the health benefits of maintaining theirvehicle's cabin air filter," said Rich White, executive director, Car CareCouncil. "It's a simple preventive maintenance step that goes a long waytoward protecting passengers, as well as the vehicle's heating, ventilatingand air-conditioning (HVAC) system."
The cabin air filter helps trap pollen, bacteria, dust and exhaust gasesthat may find their way into a vehicle's air conditioning and heating andventilation systems. The filter also prevents leaves, bugs and other debrisfrom entering the HVAC system.
A dirty or clogged cabin air filter can cause musty odors in the vehicleand cause contaminants to become so concentrated in the cabin that passengersactually breathe in more fumes and particles when riding in the car comparedto walking down the street. A restricted cabin air filter can also impairairflow in the HVAC system, possibly causing interior heating and coolingproblems. Over time, the heater and air conditioner may also become damaged bycorrosion.
Most filters are accessible through an access panel in the HVAC housing,which may be under the hood or in the interior of the car. An automotiveservice technician can help locate the cabin filter and replace it accordingto the vehicle's owner manual. Some filters require basic hand tools to removeand install the replacement filter; others just require your hands. Filtersshould not be cleaned and reinstalled; instead, they should be replaced.
The Car Care Council is the source of information for the "Be Car CareAware" consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehiclecare, maintenance and repair to consumers. For a copy of the council's CarCare Guide or for more information, visit www.carcare.org.
SOURCE Car Care Council
