Engine Air Filter vs. Cabin Air Filter

The best way to ensure that your BMW delivers smooth and efficient performance on East Greenwich-area roads is to keep up to date with your scheduled maintenance. Along with routine oil changes and tire rotations, you’ll also want to make sure that you regularly replace your car air filters. How many air filters does a car have? Most vehicles have two air filters: an engine air filter and a cabin air filter. Learn more about car air filters in this cabin air filter vs. engine air filter guide from the service team at BMW of Warwick. Need to replace your car air filters? Schedule an appointment with us in Warwick today!

What Does a Cabin Air Filter Do?

What’s the difference between a cabin air filter vs. an engine air filter? A cabin air filter is designed to keep dirt, dust, pollen, and other contaminants from getting inside the cabin through the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Over time a cabin air filter will get dirty and clogged, which will negatively affect the air quality inside your vehicle. Some signs that you need a new cabin air filter include:

• Reduced air flow when climate control systems are on
• Unpleasant odors lingering in the cabin
• An increase in dust settling on vehicle surfaces

It is recommended that you replace your cabin air filter every 15,000 miles, but you should check your owner’s manual to find the service intervals for your specific BMW model.

What Does an Engine Air Filter Do?

What’s the difference between an engine air filter vs. a cabin air filter? The purpose of an engine air filter is to keep dirt, dust, sand, and other contaminants from getting inside the engine. A dirty or clogged engine air filter can hamper your vehicle’s performance and reduce its fuel efficiency on the roads in and around Providence. Here are a few of the warning signs that indicate your engine air filter should be replaced:

• Misfiring spark plugs
• Sluggish acceleration
• Service Engine light comes on
• Black smoke from the exhaust

The schedule for replacing an engine air filter varies depending on the make and model of your vehicle. That being said, most automakers recommend that you replace your engine air filter every 30,000 to 45,000 miles. Your owner’s manual will have specifics.

Get Professional BMW Service at BMW of Warwick

How many air filters does a car have? Your BMW has a cabin air filter and an engine air filter, and both should be routinely inspected and replaced as needed. Have additional questions about cabin air filters vs. engine air filters? Please feel free to contact our service team. We carry genuine BMW cabin and engine air filters in our parts center, and our certified technicians can replace your car air filters and get you safely back on Providence-area roads with as little downtime as possible. Just make sure to check out the savings offered in our current service coupons and parts specials.