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Car Air Filter Differences and Warning Signs

Blog May 29th, 2025
service_technician_holding_new_air_filter_and_used_air_filter_above_hood_of_vehicle_for_comparison

Car Air Filter Differences and Warning Signs

Air filters can be found in both your cabin and your engine, each working hard to keep the air travelling through your vehicle clean and high quality. This is especially valuable in a busy city like Edmonton where the air is full of pollutants and debris! However, though these filters do similar jobs, they serve different purposes that each matter in their own ways. Curious to know what sets them apart? Keep reading to find out what these filters do for you and how to recognize when it’s time to replace them!

 

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What’s the Difference Between a Cabin Air Filter and an Engine Air Filter?

A cabin air filter is responsible for keeping the air flowing through your cabin fresh. As mentioned, cities like Edmonton come with a lot of airborne impurities that can be unpleasant or even harmful to our lungs, so your Kia’s air filter ensures your air quality is as pure and temperate as possible. Engine air filters do much the same for your engine’s complex system of delicate components. Any pollution in the air can eventually clog up your engine and cause it to overheat, which is a big problem for its health, fuel efficiency, and overall lifespan!

When to Change Your Engine Air Filter

So, how are you supposed to get out ahead of possible engine failures? After all, replacing an air filter is a far preferable prospect when compared to a breakdown or full engine replacement! Luckily, there are some clear signs to look out for. If any of them sound familiar, then it’s best to book a service appointment with our Kia-certified team:

  • Dirt or Discolouration
  • Engine Noises and/or Check Engine Light is on
  • Reduced Fuel Efficiency
  • Dark Smoke From the Exhaust Pipe
Air_Filters_and_Cabin_Dust

How Often Should You Change a Car Air Filter?

As with your engine filters, there are some telltale signs that indicate your cabin air filter might need replacing: 

  • Reduced Airflow
  • Heater and AC Aren’t Working Properly
  • Your Kia’s Fan is Unusually Loud 
  • An Unusual Scent or Debris is Coming From Your Vent

Of course, it’s also possible that any issues with heat might be the result of an AC issue, which in itself could indicate a potential problem with your Kia’s battery. For complete peace of mind, we suggest consulting with our specialized service team.

Clean and dirty cabin pollen air filter for a car

Switch Out Your Car Air Filter at North Edmonton Kia

Whether you need  a new filter for your engine or your cabin, North Edmonton Kia’s service department is happy to help! Simply book a quick service appointment and we’ll diagnose your vehicle for any underlying problems and switch out your filters for brand new ones if necessary. Our team is Kia-certified and factory trained, so you can count on us to notice if there are any underlying issues and get them fixed for you right away!

North Edmonton KiaBlogCar Air Filter Differences and Warning Signs