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Changing Your Cabin Air Filter - CarsDirect

2012-01-27T00:16:10Z

Changing your cabin air filter is an important part of regular vehicle maintenance and one that can not only help improve the circulation and performance of your air conditioning system, but one that can also help improve the quality of air that is circulated through your car.

What is a Cabin Air Filter?
The cabin air filter is a high particulate filtration medium that is attached to the outside air intake of your vehicle's ventilation system. This device helps to improve air quality and filter out pollution from the air that circulates inside the vehicle. Most air filters are made from a pleated paper construction, using a variety of different filtration media. Some are a cotton and paper blend, while others are basically extremely miniaturized paper filters similar to the air filter of your car's intake system. There are some that are just a formed and shaped cotton filter in a cartridge.

The cabin air filter is sometimes confused with an internal combustion air filter. The internal combustion air filter is the filter under your hood that prevents particles from getting into the engine. A driver may encounter the internal combustion air filter as a service recommendation at an oil change shop. That's because if the air filter gets clogged or otherwise compromised, it can affect engine performance.

It's important to recognize the distinction between these two very different types of air filters. When buying cabin air filters, you're looking for something that's going to help improve the air that you will be breathing as a driver or passenger in the vehicle. It's not so much part of the vehicle's performance gear as a health and safety device. Drivers can consider buying "green air filters" that are more sustainable and include more attention to what the inhabitants of a vehicle will be breathing.

Where is the Cabin Air Filter Located?
The cabin air filter, or air conditioning filter, is located in different places in different cars. On some cars these are easy to locate, remove and change. On others, they are more difficult to remove and change. They will all be in the air conditioning/vent system after the fan. Most of these can be found just inside a small inspection door in the cabin side of the fan housing. On most cars this will be down by where the front seat passenger's feet are located. This area is sometimes referred to as the foot well. Refer to your car's manual for the exact location.

Is the AC Filter the Same as the Cabin Air Filter?
Yes. Some manufacturers call these filters AC filters (or air conditioning filters), while others call them cabin air filters. Either way, they are the same thing and they perform the same function of removing dust and other allergens from the air entering the passenger compartment.

Is Changing Your Cabin Air Filter Really Necessary?
A dirty cabin air filter can cause your air conditioner to run less efficiently, which will waste horsepower. It will also decrease the amount of air flow into the passenger compartment. Both of these conditions will result in higher temperatures in the passenger compartment and the air conditioner having to work harder than it really needs to. Changing the cabin air filter in your vehicle is not only important from a maintenance perspective, but also helps ensure the safety of the passengers in your vehicle. The cabin air filter is a very important part of your car's ventilation system and removes many common pollutants from the air, thus protecting the passengers inside the vehicle.

Replacing Your Cabin Air Filter
Changing the cabin air filter is fairly easy to do if you follow this how-to guide. New vehicles usually come equipped with one or more cabin air filters. A cabin air filter provides fresh air through the passenger compartment side vents.

Step-By-Step Guide

The first thing you need to do is locate your owner's manual to find out if your vehicle is equipped with a cabin air filter. If you can't find the information, then your car is probably not equipped with a cabin air filter. However, if you would like to be sure, call your favorite parts store and they can provide you with the information.
When you purchase the new cabin air filter, be aware that there are 2 types of filters. One is called the particulate; the other is called the activated charcoal. The particulate filters out road dust, bacteria, mold spores, pollen and other pollutants. The activated charcoal filters the above mentioned and filters harmful gasses and odors. People who drive around in gridlock or have an odor problem might consider buying the activated charcoal, though it is more expensive.
After purchasing the filter, make sure you have your eye protection, gloves, ratchet, socket and screwdriver before beginning the procedure.
Remove the glove compartment. Usually, vehicles are equipped with bolts and screws to hold the glove compartment in. Your glove compartment may have tabs as well, so be careful when removing the compartment and use the tabs to remove.
After removing the bolt and the screws, remove the glove box frame.
Locate the filter housing. Look for a removable plastic filter cover.
Remove the filter. Most under-dash filters can be removed simply by opening the filter door.
Before installing the new filter, vacuum the filter chamber to remove any excess particles. You may also take a damp cloth and wipe the inside of the air filter chamber to clean out unwanted dust and particles.

Tips:

If you park next to trees, consider waiting to change the cabin air filter until the trees are done pollinating for the season as the pollen can find its way into the filter.
People who suffer from allergies may consider changing the cabin air filter more often.
Be careful squeezing the tabs, they break easily, so don't overdo it.

How Often Should You Change a Cabin Air Filter?
Generally speaking, most car manufacturers recommend that the cabin air filter be changed at least once a year or every 12,000 to 15,000 miles--whichever comes first. However, if you operate your vehicle in heavily polluted areas or commonly drive along dirt or gravel roads, you may want to consider changing the oil filter more often. For these types of areas, changing the cabin air filter every 4,000 to 5,000 miles or every 6 months is recommended.

Conclusion
In order to help keep your car's ventilation system running at optimal efficiency (as well as protect the health of yourself and your passengers), it's important that you replace your cabin air filter on a regular basis. The money you spend on a replacement filter and the time you spend installing it are well worth the benefits to your car and your health.

Do You Need a Car Battery Cover for Sealed Car Batteries? - CarsDirect

2011-01-03T19:01:33Z

A car battery cover is not a necessity for any battery, but they are a nice thing to have. They cover the top of the battery, which helps prevent corrosion from developing on the battery terminals. A sealed battery simply means that the battery acid cells are sealed, and they cannot be accessed. These batteries are basically maintenance free, but at times they do need to be charged. They can be charged or jump started like a regular battery, so keeping the terminal posts clean and corrosion free is important. A battery cover can help keep the posts clean. These covers normally snap on and are fairly inexpensive.

Is the Yellow Top Optima Car Battery Worth the Price Difference? - CarsDirect

2010-12-10T21:48:52Z

If you're thinking about an Optima car battery, you need to consider whether the price difference is worth it. This depends on what you're looking for in a car battery, but yellow top Optima's last longer, provide more consistent power and use deep cycle technology to provide better starts. They are great for heavy duty and performance vehicles. They're even lighter than lesser batteries. A yellow top will cost you more up front, but a longer lasting battery means more money saved in the long run.

What Car Battery Maker Has the Best Warranty? - CarsDirect

2010-12-10T21:48:52Z

A good car battery warranty is important to ensure you won't be out money if something goes wrong with the battery. The best car battery warranty is offered by Exide on its Marathon battery. It offers a 40-month replacement that is absolutely free with the return of any defective battery. In addition, the company offers a 108-month limited warranty covering a variety of other problems and situations. The Marathon battery comes with a 40-month 24-hour emergency warranty and the number is right on the battery, offering you convenience and relief in an emergency situation.

What Car Battery has the Biggest Reserve Capacity? - CarsDirect

2010-12-10T21:48:52Z

Your car battery reserve capacity is determined by the amount of reserved power your battery builds. This reserve can give you just enough power to start a low battery and keep it going until the power is able to cycle itself. It can also give you just a bit more power for heat, light or other uses in your vehicle in an emergency situation. Deep cycle batteries have the biggest reserve capacities, and Yellow Top Optima is known for having the best deep cycle batteries. Batteries with great reserve capacities also tend to be more durable, thus lasting longer and performing better.

What is the Average Cost to Reupholster Car Seats? - CarsDirect

2010-12-03T18:14:13Z

The cost to reupholster car seats depends on the type of material, the type of seat, and the number that need to be reupholstered. Luxury car seats are typically made from leather or a high quality, high durability fabric. As such, the cost to reupholster those types of seats runs approximately $350 apiece. Standard vinyl material is not very expensive, and so the cost runs about $125 per seat. To restore your seats to factory quality, be prepared to spend about $225 per seat. Of course, the quality of the material and the labor cost will greatly affect the cost of the job.

Where can I find a Car Battery Size Chart? - CarsDirect

2010-12-03T18:14:11Z

A car battery size chart is a useful tool in determining the proper battery for your car. Car batteries are manufactured in a variety of sizes, and the current capacity must be properly matched to the vehicle. A battery size chart contains a list of automobile manufacturers and a list of vehicles manufactured by each of those companies. The list is further broken down into the brands of vehicles and the model year. Under that category, you will find the battery that fits your vehicle. You can find battery size charts on the Internet and in automotive outlets that sell a large variety of vehicle batteries.

What is the Average Alternator Repair Cost? - CarsDirect

2010-11-12T19:01:35Z

It is hard to give an average price for an alternator repair cost. There are numerous factors that will affect the price. Does the alternator belt just need to be replaced, or is the entire alternator shot? If replacement is necessary, using a rebuilt or used alternator will be much cheaper than a new one. The make and model of the vehicle will affect price as well. Replacing a belt is cheap, and if you can do the work yourself, $35 to $75 should be the average. If a professional does the work you are probably looking at $100 to $125. Replacing the entire alternator will be more expensive. If you are using a new alternator and having a professional do the work, expect a bill between $200 and $500. Using a rebuilt alternator will make the repair somewhat cheaper.

How Much Horsepower Does a Cold Air Intake System Add? - CarsDirect

2010-11-08T22:21:22Z

You’re considering installing a cold air intake system and you’re wondering exactly 'how much horsepower does a cold air intake add?'. Exactly how much of an increase in horsepower and torque you will receive will vary depending on what kind of car the system is installed in and exactly which system you use. On the average, you will see between 8 and 25 more horsepower when you install one of these on a properly tuned engine. The power gain is realized because cold air is denser, with a higher percentage of oxygen than warm air. More oxygen, means more power.

On Average, How Much Does Clear Coat Auto Painting Cost? - CarsDirect

2010-11-08T22:21:21Z

When determining an overall auto painting cost, you have to keep in mind exactly what and how you want the car to be painted. The cheapest overall paint job is going to be one where you don’t change the color of the car at all. With a minimal amount of preparation, you can expect to pay in the vicinity of $600 for a single color with clear coat. This is presuming that there are no underlying problems with the current paint requiring attention, before paint can be applied. If you plan on changing the color of the car and want door jambs and such to match, you’re looking at a minimum of $2,000 to $4,000.

Where Can I Get a Chameleon Paint Job for My Car? - CarsDirect

2010-11-01T17:20:05Z

A color change, pearlescent or chameleon paint job for your car will cost in the neighborhood of $8,000 to $12,000, depending on a variety of factors such as the size of your car, how much prep work is required and what types of base colors you want. Regular car paint and body shops will normally not be qualified to perform this type of paint job. This type of paint job requires special preparation steps, special training and skill to get it just right. The best place to look to get one of these paint jobs done is your local car customization shop.

A Routine Car Maintenance Schedule Based on Engine Mileage - CarsDirect

2010-10-20T16:21:06Z

Routine car maintenance is mandatory in order to keep a car running properly. The following guidelines are the approximate intervals many car manufacturers suggest auto maintenance service be performed. However, always refer to the owner's manual, dealer or authorized service professional for the particular service and intervals required.

Every 3,000 to 7,000 Miles

The oil and oil filter should be replaced according to the manufacturer's recommended auto maintenance schedule with a majority suggesting the oil and oil filter be replaced between 3,000 and 7,000 miles. Furthermore, inspection of the transmission fluid level, coolant, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid and wipers, tires and all exterior lights is also encouraged.

Every 15,000 to 30,000 Miles

Replace the air filter every 15,000 miles. Every 20,000 miles inspect the battery and coolant. Most 25,000-mile maintenance service requires replacing the fuel filter. Every 30,000 miles, replace the air filter and power steering fluid. Inspect the coolant, radiator hoses, HVAC system, brake pads and all suspension components.

Every 35,000 to 50,000 Miles

Inspect and replace the battery every 35,000 miles, as needed. Every 40,000 miles replace the spark plugs and spark plug wires, and inspect the ignition system and suspension. These checks are recommended again at 45,000 miles and 50,000 miles.

Every 60,000 Miles

Replace brake pads and brake fluid, radiator hoses, coolant, power steering fluid and timing belt. Inspect the HVAC, suspension components and tires.

Oil changes and air filters are very important parts of engine maintenance; however, a thorough inspection of all engine, transmission, cooling, brakes and suspension components should also be performed regularly. The owner's manual provides a routine auto maintenance schedule based on engine mileage for most cars.

A Scheduled Car Maintenance Guide Based Off of a Calendar Year - CarsDirect

2010-10-20T16:21:06Z

In order to keep your vehicle running smooth, you need to perform scheduled car maintenance. Engine maintenance is required to make sure the engine does not develop early problems. Auto maintenance is necessary to ensure the proper overall working of the vehicle's interior and exterior. There are items that must be tended to on a regular schedule.

In reality, some checks can be made on a daily basis. Each time the vehicle is started for the first time of the day, a check of the trouble light status should be performed. This is accomplished by pausing the key switch in the "On" position before cranking and starting the vehicle. At this time, all of the trouble lights and LEDs will be tested by lighting. You should take note of any lamps that do not light up, and replace them. They are there to warm you of trouble conditions, and cannot do that if the lamp is burned out.

Weekly auto maintenance encompasses cleaning the vehicle's interior and exterior. To keep the materials like vinyl, rubber and leather looking good, they must receive regular treatments with an approved cleaner and conditioner. Not only will this enhance the beauty of these materials, but will also keep them from deteriorating, cracking and splitting. The outside of the vehicle also needs this type of attention. Many vehicles have rubber and vinyl on their outsides. These materials are subjected to a considerably harsher environment than the materials in the interior. That is why it's important to regularly clean and treat them. Regular washing will provide rust prevention to the finish of the vehicle.

Monthly auto maintenance comprises of mostly inspections and checks. The tire air pressure should be measured, when the tires are cold, and have not yet been driven on. Proper inflation can add gas mileage, extend the life of the tires and deliver assistance in steering, cornering and stopping. The engine maintenance portion of these checks include checks of oil, radiator fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid and battery water level (if applicable). The oil, radiator and battery water levels should be checked with the engine cold. The transmission fluid needs to be checked with the engine running and fully warmed. Brake and power steering fluid can be checked regardless of engine temperature.

Longer duration scheduled car maintenance requires consumables to be replaced. Quarterly replacements include the air filter, oil and oil filter. This is a typical frequency, but replacements at sooner intervals may be required if you drive in very dusty areas. The vehicle chassis and front end need to be greased. Annual car maintenance requires the replacement of the fuel filter and the spark plugs and plug wires. The radiator fluid should be replaced every 3 to 5 years.

A smooth running vehicle requires some regularly scheduled car maintenance. To prevent the early onset of engine problems, and to extend the life of the vehicle's interior and exterior, routine auto maintenance is necessary.

Three Common Coupons and Discounts to Use at a Smog Test Station - CarsDirect

2010-10-20T16:21:06Z

Many places require that you pay a regular visit to a smog test station in order to be sure that your vehicle meets the local standards of pollution. Smog test requirements differ from state to state and even within some states, so you'll have to check with your local DMV to learn about how to pass smog check requirements. Read on for some information about getting coupons for use at these stations.

1. DMV

The DMV often works together with certain smog test stations to provide you with a helpful way of testing your vehicle. Visit your DMV for a recommendation and potentially even for a discount.

2. Newspapers

Many smog testing stations will run coupons and deals in local newspapers. Keep an eye out for discounts, particularly those available when it's not high testing season for smog (which typically happens from the early summer through the late fall).

3. Clean Car Discounts

Some smog testing stations will actually provide you with a discount depending upon the status and pollution level of your car. This serves as an incentive for people to drive cleaner cars that don't contribute to pollution as greatly. If you're interested in receiving discounts of this type, and you're looking to buy a new car, you might wish to check around at different smog test stations in your area for further advice.

Smog test stations differ in services and price just like most other businesses. To find the best deal on a smog test service for your vehicle, look around in your area for the greatest prices.

Average Prices to Expect When Buying or Renting a used Tig Welder - CarsDirect

2010-10-20T16:21:06Z

If you're looking to buy or rent a used Tig welder, you'll find that the prices of these devices vary considerably depending upon a number of factors. Anyone looking to do car welding or a remodeling project will need to make use of one of these special devices. Read on for a brief outline on how much to expect to have to pay when buying or renting an auto welding device such as a Tig welder.

Buying a Used Tig Welder

A used Tig welder can vary in cost considerably depending upon the condition of the welder, the previous use, the type of model and how it is still used or not used at the time that you purchase it. Generally speaking, a new Tig welder that goes for $500 to $700 will typically sell for about $300 or $400. However, some Tig welders are much more expensive than that new, and can range up to $2,000. These may cost from $1,000 to $1,500 used.

Renting a Used Tig Welder

Unless you're planning to use a Tig welder for a number of projects on your car, you'll likely find that renting a device of this kind is a much better way of saving money. Most used Tig welders can be rented out on a per day or per project basis. These generally cost between $75 and $200 per day to rent, depending once again upon the quality of the welder. Look around to different rental companies in your area for the best prices.