A woman says she was quoted $120 for a cabin air filter replacement by her local dealership. Instead, she calls on her handy sister, who changes it for $20 using a filter from AutoZone.
TikTok creator Natti Lynn (@natti_lynn) posted a video that shows her sister doing the installation of the AutoZone part.
“When the dealership said it would cost $120 for a cabin air filter replacement,” the on-screen text reads. “So you call your sister and she changes it in their parking lot for $20.”
In the caption, she wrote, “Thanks sissy.”
Is It Really That Easy to Replace A Cabin Air Filter?
In the comments section of the video, many viewers agreed that it is a good idea to learn basic maintenance jobs like changing an air filter.
“Fun fact: Just about all regular maintenance is this easy,” wrote one person.
“Life lesson: Never get service done at a dealership unless it’s under warranty,” a second person said.
“And that’s exactly why I took automotive class in school,” a third person added. “I can change my tires, oil, air filter, brakes, and so much more.”
Some mechanics also weighed in. “Wow, you realize shops don't work for free, right? They have rent, insurance, employees, and equipment to pay for,” one wrote.
A second said, “I have to say, changing a cabin air filter is the easiest thing to do on most cars.”
Gallery: Honda Kurumaku Cabin Air Filter Mask
How Do You Replace A Cabin Air Filter?
Essentially, the cabin air filter is what filters the air coming into your car from the outside. Of course, the dirt and dust that it catches builds up over time. When that happens, it’s time for a replacement. And, generally, you’ll find the filter behind the glove box, as seen in Lynn’s video.
AutoZone recommends changing a cabin air filter approximately every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. You can purchase one from the auto parts store for about $20–$30, depending on the vehicle make and model.
A driver posted a thread to Reddit’s r/lifeprotips three years ago about DIY cabin air filter changes. “I watched a three-minute YouTube video on how to do it,” the person wrote. “It took me less than five minutes. Now I have amazing air flow in my car’s A/C. Even if you don’t have air flow issues, you should do it for your health. You’re breathing in all the junk that is in your filter.”
Does Changing A Cabin Air Filter Improve Your Health?
According to Westside Hyundai, changing your cabin air filter is absolutely beneficial to your health. That’s because that dust and dirt in the filter is made up of “pollen, dust, mold spores, exhaust fumes, and other pollutants.” So, regular changing of the filter should help out with those pesky allergies.
Motor1 contacted Lynn via email for comment. We will update this story if she responds.
