Replacing cabin filters when a vehicle is in for a service is usually part of the service schedule, but it is quite often overlooked, as many vehicle owners don’t know they exist or what they are for and therefore are not willing to pay for it to be replaced.
That’s the warning from Borg & Beck which is advising that all filters should be replaced in line with the vehicle manufacturer’s schedule during any service.
A Borg & Beck spokesperson said: “During the winter months, it is particularly important to ensure that the cabin filter is functioning properly, especially as it would have already worked hard over the summer.
“Therefore, the added pressure of filtering out the harmful particles and contaminants could lead to decreased heater/air conditioning performance, unpleasant odours and safety issues, as the windows may not be able to clear properly, especially when raining, affecting the vision of the driver.
“If customers choose not to replace the cabin filter whilst the vehicle is in for its routine service, then they need to be aware of the possible consequences.”
Consequences of cabin filter failure
Clogged filters will reduce the amount of clean air entering the cabin, which can lead to the windows misting, plus they will notice a greater level of dust building up, as it will be unable to be filtered out.
As a result, asthma and allergies may be triggered, the cabin can become stuffier – which can induce symptoms such as watering eyes, headaches, nausea – and leave the driver feeling fatigued, which will affect concentration and be dangerous.
Problems with the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system can also develop, as it will come under pressure if the cabin filter is blocked.
Micro-organisms will then begin accumulating in the cabin as moisture builds up in the captured particles and becomes a feeding ground for mould and bacteria, leading to the development of unpleasant odours.
To prevent these potential health and safety issues, technicians should be recommending filter replacement and, irrespective of these known problems, cabin filters should be automatically replaced every 12 months, particularly before the winter months.
Workshop poster
To aid workshops reach customers with this valuable message, First Line Ltd, under its globally recognised Borg & Beck brand, has produced a useful poster that can be displayed in the workshop’s reception area to inform motorists of the risks, should they ignore the advice to regularly replace the cabin filter.
To promote best practice in your workshop contact First Line by emailing [email protected].
The complete Borg & Beck filters range offers more than 1,000 references providing comprehensive coverage for the entire vehicle parc, across oil, air, fuel and cabin filters for cars and light commercial vehicles.
All are constructed using high quality, resilient materials and premium quality filter paper is specifically selected against each application for ultimate filtration.
For more information about the First Line Ltd product range, call 01869 248484 or click the ‘more details’ link below.