5 Telltale Signs That Your BMW Cabin Air Filter Needs Replacement
Have you been sneezing a lot while driving recently? You would be surprised to hear that such a problem can be caused by a bad cabin air filter. Yup, you read that right! The cabin air filter, if clogged or damaged, will allow dust and other allergens to enter the cabin; making passengers sneeze, cough, and have watery eyes.
Additionally, the durability of your car engine may be at risk if your cabin air filter is defective. So, it is crucial that you periodically check the cabin air filter in your BMW and replace it if it has reached the end of its serviceable life. We’ve highlighted some of the warning indicators to assist you diagnose cabin air filter issues in your BMW.
Engine Air Filter vs. Cabin Air Filter: Key Differences
People often get confused about these two filters. So, before we get started, we thought we’d throw light on the fundamental differences between these two filters.
Engine Air Filter:
The sole purpose of this filter is to make sure that the air entering the combustion chamber of the engine stays free of contaminants. This filter extends the life of the engine by preventing dust and other foreign substances from getting into the cylinders.
Cabin Air Filter:
In contrast to the engine air filter, the cabin air filter ensures that allergens and pollutants are not carried through the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system. So, basically, the cabin air filter prevents dust and other foreign elements from getting inside the cabin.
Let’s now talk about some of the warning signs of cabin air filter failure now that you are aware of the main distinctions between the engine and cabin air filters.
Clues That Your BMW Needs a New Cabin Air Filter
Clue #1- Weak airflow from AC vents
Have you recently noticed that the air vents on your automobile are barely blowing any air? If so, we’re pretty sure something is wrong with the cabin air filter. After all, it is the cabin air filter that the air has to pass through before entering the cabin. If it clogs up, airflow to the cabin will be restricted. So, check the air filter if your air conditioner’s vents aren’t blowing air smoothly. If it has reached the end of its serviceable life, replace it.
Clue #2- Musty smell from car AC
A strange musty odor emanating from the AC vents is one sign that your cabin air filter has grown blocked and has turned into a breeding ground for bacteria. As dust, debris, and other foreign matter accumulate in your cabin air filter, it becomes the perfect breeding ground for germs. And, when this happens, the air coming out of your vehicle’s AC vents will start to smell musty. Replace the clogged filter to prevent things from getting worse.
Clue #3- Foggy windows
Foggy windows are another crucial sign that the cabin air filter in your BMW needs to be replaced. A clogged cabin air filter is just one of many potential causes for a car’s windows to fog up. Inadequate air conditioning, high humidity, and adverse weather are some additional causes of vehicle window fogging. In any case, if your car windows are fogging up, don’t take it for granted. If it’s the cabin air filter where the fault lies, replace it.
Clue #4- Strange noise
Do you occasionally notice an odd humming sound coming from your vehicle’s air conditioning system? Well, guess what??? This may signify a fault in the cabin air filter. With time, the noise will only get worse. So, if you notice an odd noise emanating from your BMW’s AC vent, the first thing you should do is have the air filter checked. Replace it if it has been used to its full capacity.
Clue #5- HVAC not working
Your BMW’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system won’t function smoothly if its cabin air filter is clogged.
In Conclusion
If your BMW’s cabin air filter is clogged, these are the symptoms you’ll encounter. The cabin air filter may appear to be a trivial component. However, its failure might result in a variety of issues. Therefore, replace your vehicle’s air filter as soon as you notice any signs of clogging.
